Dunedin & Coastal Otago

Need to know ...

In the far southeast of the South Island, Dunedin is a fascinating city that invites lingering exploration. Nineteenth-century stone architecture forms a dignified backdrop to a vibrant modern culture. Explore world-class museums and galleries, stopping to rejuvenate in a quirky café. On the Otago Peninsula wildlife rules: this is an area known around the world for its spectacular wildlife experiences.

Main Centres

Dunedin – main city in Otago, famous for its heritage architecture.

Getting There

By Air – Dunedin Airport, 30 minutes from the city, offers domestic and trans-Tasman flights.
By Road – 5 hours from Christchurch to Dunedin. 1 hour, 40 minutes from Oamaru to Dunedin. 3 hours, 10 minutes from Dunedin to Invercargill. Several coach companies provide regular services to the region.

Getting Around

The centre of Dunedin is relatively compact so you can walk between many attractions. At times of the year it can be very cold, though, so you may prefer to catch a taxi or a bus. Tour operators can prepare an itinerary that will introduce you to the best of
the region.

Eating Out

Exclusive

Two Chefs Restaurant (428 George St, Dunedin, t +64 3 477 9117) – stylish, contemporary NZ cuisine.
Corstorphine House Conservatory Restaurant (Milburn St, Corstorphine, Dunedin, t +64 3 487 1000) – the Conservatory Restaurant offers fine dining with home-grown organic produce.
The Grand Bar & Café (Dunedin Casino, 118 High St, Dunedin, t +64 3 477 4545) – comprehensive à la carte all-day menu along with a wine list reflecting the strength of Central Otago wines.

Casual

Etrusco at the Savoy (8a Moray Pl, Dunedin, t +64 3 477 3737) – popular Italian restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine.
Plato (2 Birch St, Dunedin, t +64 3 477 4235) – contemporary New Zealand cuisine with seafood a specialty.
Yellow Train (Dowling St, Dunedin, t +64 3 477 1657) – bar and restaurant serving retro food with a twist. Got a craving for Bangers and Mash or Mince on Toast? This is the place for you.

Where to Drink

Stylish bars

Pequeño (50 Princes St, Dunedin, t +64 3 477 7830) – down an alleyway off Moray Place. Intimate bar with comfortable couches, plush velvet curtains and a roaring open fire.
POP (downstairs, 14 The Octagon, Dunedin, t +64 3 474 0842) – a retro bar with an excellent cocktail list. Check out the secret outdoor drinking area, sheltered by historic buildings.

Sights

Fascinating heritage buildings such as Larnach Castle and Olveston House.
The Royal Albatross colony at Taiaroa Head – the world’s only mainland albatross breeding colony.

Climb to the top of Mount Cargill at the northern end of Dunedin – a three- to four-hour walk – and capture spectacular views of the city and surrounds.

Action

Take an Otago Harbour boat cruise. From New Zealand Fur Seals to Yellow-eyed Penguins (the world’s rarest species of penguin), the variety of wildlife right on the city’s doorstep is simply astonishing.
Go hiking – the Otago Peninsula offers a variety of walks, while south of the city, Tunnel Beach Walking Track is an intriguing short walk through a tunnel to a secluded cove.

Relax

Catch the Taieri Gorge Railway. This historic rail journey features rugged scenery, and viaducts and tunnels dating back to 1879.

Indulge in Dunedin’s excellent, highly individual boutiques, cafés or bars – some claim that Dunedin has the best nightlife in the South Island.

THE experience

Stroll the grand old city streets of Dunedin – one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere – and explore its acclaimed art galleries and museums.