Dunedin offers a rich blend of natural beauty, heritage, and unique attractions for tourists to explore. Discover the city's Scottish roots through its striking architecture, including the iconic Dunedin Railway Station and Larnach Castle. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the nearby Otago Peninsula to see rare yellow-eyed penguins, albatross, and seals in their natural habitat. Stroll through the tranquil Dunedin Botanic Garden or venture into the vibrant street art scene scattered across the city. For a dose of culture, the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery offer fascinating insights into the region's history and creativity. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Dunedin has something for everyone.
Larnach Castle
With its exciting, sometimes scandalous and tragic history, magnificent carved ceilings, New Zealand antiques and breathtaking views, Larnach Castle offers you a vision of the past and present.
Dunedin Railway Station
Of all the cities in New Zealand, Dunedin can boast the largest concentration of Victorian and Edwardian buildings. The old railway station is worth visiting and the scenic Taieri Gorge train trip is a fantastic journey too.
Royal Albatross Centre
The Royal Albatross Centre is situated at the bottom of Taiaroa Head on the Otago Peninsula. It is the only mainland breeding colony of these massive seabirds in the world.
St Clair Beach / Esplanade Surf School
St Clair Beach in Dunedin is a stunning stretch of white sand popular for its surf, scenic views, and vibrant seaside cafés, restaurants and wine bars. Located right on the Esplanade, Esplanade Surf School offers friendly, professional surf lessons for all ages and skill levels – perfect for visitors keen to ride the waves.
Otago Settlers Museum
The Toitū Otago Settlers Museum offers an engaging journey through the history of Dunedin and the Otago region, from early Māori settlement to contemporary times. With interactive exhibits, artefacts, and multimedia displays, it brings the stories of the people who shaped the region to life.
Dunedin Botanic Gardens
The Dunedin Botanic Garden is New Zealand's oldest botanical garden, boasting over 6,800 plant species across beautifully landscaped grounds. Visitors can enjoy tranquil walks, vibrant floral displays, a native plant collection, and panoramic views from the upper garden.
Wildlife Tours
Monarch Wildlife Cruises in Dunedin offers immersive boat tours along the Otago Peninsula, providing close-up views of royal albatross, fur seals, sea lions, and penguins, all while sharing rich insights into the region's wildlife, history, and geology.
Port to Port Cruises, led by experienced skipper Rachel aboard the custom-built 'Sootychaser', offers intimate wildlife tours and ferry services across Otago Harbour, featuring sightings of albatross, seals, penguins, and historic landmarks like shipwrecks and quarantine stations.
The Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula is a scenic haven rich in wildlife, historic sites, and sweeping coastal views, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Port Chalmers, a charming harbour town on the peninsula, marks the start of a picturesque cycle path that winds along the harbour's edge, offering a peaceful and enjoyable ride through coastal landscapes.
Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Orokonui Ecosanctuary, located just 20km north of Dunedin, is a 307-hectare predator-free sanctuary dedicated to preserving New Zealand's native flora and fauna. Visitors can explore a variety of walking tracks through regenerating cloud forest, offering opportunities to encounter rare species such as kākā, takahē, tuatara, and South Island robins in their natural habitat.
Otago Farmers Market
The Otago Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning from 8:00AM to 12:30PM at the historic Dunedin Railway Station, is a vibrant hub featuring up to 75 vendors offering fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and artisan products. Visitors can enjoy live music, seasonal events, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfect for families and friends alike.