Dunedin & Central Otago
Where is Dunedin
Situated at the head of the Otago Peninsula on the South Islands east coast, Dunedin is as well known for its impressive architecture as it is for its close proximity to some of New Zealand’s most unforgettable nature and wildlife. It’s Scottish heritage is in evidence throughout the city, and it’s not unusual to explore the city to a background soundtrack of bagpipes accompanying you too!
Don’t Miss
- A ride on the spectacular Taieri Gorge from Dunedin’s beautiful Edwardian station
- Tea at Lanarch Castle, the neo-gothic landmark complete with battlements, fairy-tale grand ballroom, and extravagant carved ceilings
- A wildlife cruise to see the best of the Otago Peninsula
- The Moeraki Boulders, smooth rounded boulders on the shoreline – four million years old and weighing several tons each
Visiting Dunedin
Dunedin City
A trip to Dunedin isn’t complete without a visit to the city’s railway station with it’s beautiful mosaic floors and Edwardian architecture.
Take a tour around the Cadbury factory and the Speights brewery, visit some of the cities historic and significant homes, and learn more about the Scottish heritage of Dundein in the excellent city museums.
In 2014 Dunedin was awarded a prestigious title as New Zealand’s only UNESCO City of Literature, celebrating it’s unique culture and literary heritage, and making it an unmissable destination for creatives. Home to many of New Zealand’s best loved writers, poets musicians and artists the city celebrates it’s status with a plethora of events and festivals throughout the year.
Taeri Gorge Railway
From the Railway Station you can take a trip out on the Taieri Gorge Railway. A wonderful example of the skill of New Zealand’s early railway pioneers, the scenic day trip journeys through narrow and deep gorges, through tunnels and over bridges and viaducts offering superb views of the surrounding countryside.
Otago Peninsula
Home to some of the rarest wildlife species in the world, the Otago Peninsula is just a short drive out of Dunedin and it’s here you’ll find the Southern Hemispheres only Mainland Albatross colony at Taiaroa Heads. If you’re lucky you’ll also see little Yellow Eyed Penguins – the world rarest penguin, along with fur seals and sea lions – a real haven for wildlife fans.
There are many walking and mountain biking tracks in the area, together with opportunities for kayaking and fishing too.
Insider Tips
Brent and Sandy Ward from the Hazel House Bed and Breakfast in Dunedin recommend a trip into town from their classic 1900’s Villa . As Brent says, “The new murals on buildings in the city are looking fantastic and well worth viewing.”
Hand picked accommodation
Dunedin & Central Otago Experiences
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