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Oceania New Zealand Dunedin

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Dunedin The guide was updated: 2024-08-01

Dunedin, on the rugged east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is a city of style and creativity. Officially founded in 1848 by the Free Church of Scotland, it's home to twenty five thousand students at the University of Otago, who mingle with the town’s landed gentry to create an eclectic destination that enthrals all who pass through. Surrounded by a deep blue harbour on one side and rolling misty hills on the other, Dunedin’s lush green dales and old world architecture pay tribute to the city’s Scottish heritage.

Facts

Population:	106,200 Dunedinites (2023)
Currency:	New Zealand Dollar (NZD) = 100 cents
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police, Fire & Ambulance: 111
Newspapers:	The Otago Daily Times: www.odt.co.nz NZ Herald: www.nzherald.co.nz
Website:	www.dunedinnz.com/visit
Opening hours:	Generally shops are open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5:30pm and on Saturdays from 9:30am to 1pm.
Tourist information:	Ōtepoti Dunedin isite Visitor Information Centre 50 The Octagon, Dunedin Central, New Zealand +64 3 474 3300 visitor.centre@dcc.govt.nz Open Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm, Sat & Sun 9am–5pm www.dunedin.govt.nz/dunedin-city/visitors-centre-isite

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Section in Dunedin

There is much to do and see in Dunedin. Drive the winding road of the Otago Peninsula through Macandrew Bay, a quaint coastal settlement by the harbour, ten kilometres from town. Continue to the point of the Peninsula where the blue ocean and white sands meet, to discover yellow eyed penguin settlements, fur seals, sea lions and the elusive albatross, with the only mainland breeding colony in the world.

Larnach Castle

Larnach Castle

Dunedin is known for its historic architecture. Head to the Otago Peninsula and discover the country’s oldest castle. Larnach Castle was built in 1871 by a love-struck merchant baron and politician, William Larnach, for his darling wife Eliza. The castle has a scandalous history of adultery and suicide and is said to be haunted, so watch your back.

Dunedin Railways

Dunedin Railways

Take the 60–kilometre journey on the historic Taieri Gorge Railway, New Zealand’s longest privately owned railway. Don't miss the occasion to cruise through Taieri River Gorge’s hand dug tunnels and century old wrought iron viaducts, high above the valley floor.

Craft Beers

Craft Beers

Craft beers are big news in the alcohol industry. Dunedin is home to two craft beers: Speight’s Ale known as “the pride of the south” and Emerson’s Brewery. You can visit Speight’s Brewery with a 90-minute tour that tracks the timeline of Speight’s ale from 1876 to the giant copper vessels of today’s brew house, before finishing with a refreshing drink.

Royal Albatross Centre

Royal Albatross Centre

Animal lovers and eco-warriors will adore Dunedin’s abundant wildlife. The albatross, for example, can fly with its three-metre wingspan at speeds of up to 115 kilometres per hour. You have the chance to see these majestic creatures from the observatory at Dunedin’s Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head.

Yellow-eyed Penguins

Yellow-eyed Penguins

The yellow-eyed penguins of the Otago Peninsula are only found in New Zealand and are the rarest ones in the world, with just 4,000-5,000 penguins currently in existence. You can get up close and personal with these delightful creatures along with the thriving New Zealand fur seals and sea lions on an eco-tour that combines all three.

Glenfalloch Woodland Garden

Glenfalloch Woodland Garden

Glenfalloch Woodland Garden spans 30 acres of enchanting landscapes with panoramic views of Otago Harbour. Stroll among rhododendrons, azaleas and native ferns, cultivated here over the 140 years of the garden's history. Each season offers a unique display of colours and fragrances.

Moeraki Boulders

Moeraki Boulders

Make a side trip to the Moeraki Boulders; these huge spherical boulders are littered over a sandy beach under an hour away from Dunedin. Stop at the famed Fleurs restaurant, in the fishing village on the bay at Moeraki, and dine with fresh and smoked seafood on the upper floor and enjoy the view.

Otago Peninsula

Otago Peninsula

The Otago Peninsula is an area of breathtaking natural beauty characterised by its volcanic origins. All visitors of the area should undoubtedly plan a scenic drive around because every corner of the Otago peninsula hides a gem ready to be discovered.

Tunnel Beach

Tunnel Beach

The Tunnel Beach is famous for its unique, picturesque rock formations that offer plenty of material to work with when photographing. Don't miss the man made tunnel leading to the beach made by a local resident.

Toitu Otago Settlers Museum

Toitu Otago Settlers Museum

Toitū Otago Settlers Museum offers a unique insight into New Zealand's early history, detailing the first settlers' experiences on the islands. Moreover, admission is free, so save some time for this attraction and you won't be disappointed.

Forsyth Barr Stadium

Forsyth Barr Stadium

Dunedinites love their Rugby Union, and the city’s Forsyth Barr Stadium comes alive with sports-mad students when the Otago Rugby Team is playing at home. Even if you don't go crazy over sports, watching a match here is still an exciting experience.

Baldwin Street

Baldwin Street

With its 35 degree gradient, Baldwin Street in Dunedin ranked as the world's steepest street. In 2019, the title was transferred to Welsh Ffordd Pen Llech by a 2.45% gradient. If you choose to take the challenging walk uphill, notice the whimsical look houses lining the road had to take on to adjust to the ascent angle.

Dunedin Botanic Garden

Dunedin Botanic Garden

Dunedin Botanic Garden, New Zealand's first, covers 33 hectares with over 6,800 plant species. Enjoy hill views, native bird songs, and attractions like the Edwardian Winter Garden, Japanese Garden, and expansive rock garden. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic.

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