Dunedin - Character and Culture Close to Nature

A world away from big cities and all that they bring lies a small, thriving city set amidst a magical landscape edged by the sea. Here the streets hum vibrantly with colour and culture, and the beauty of nature can still be found - everywhere. It is a city of rare charm.

An historic university city, Dunedin spreads around a sheltered habour. The Victorian and Edwardian spires and towers of notable, neo-Gothic buildings and stately homes punctuate Dunedin's cityscape. The city centre is compact, with a surprising array of kerbside cafes, high quality local craft, art, jewellery and fashion design outlets.

The city is renowned for its proximity to incredible wildlife. The Otago Peninsula, a brief drive from the city centre, is home to a colony of the world's rarest penguins, the ony mainland breeding colony of the royal albatross, rare New Zealand sea lions and the magnificent Larnach Castle. A world of recreational opportunities awaits the active at heart.

Wherever you stay, you'll experience the southern hospitality that is unique to Dunedin. Visitors to the region speak enthusiastically of its atmosphere and quality experiences. And that's the secret that ensures they will return.

Natural Wonders

 Easy access to a landscape so diverse that it encompasses green valleys, wide, open plains, fast flowing rivers, surf beaches, sheltered bays, bush covered hills, rolling oceans and steep mountain ranges is a claim that Dunedin can justifiably make.

On the spectacular Otago Peninsula, that stretches east along the southern edge of the Otago Harbour are several internationally renowned wildlife reserves. Here, some of the world's rarest wildlife can be viewed all year round in the natural habitats.

At the tip of the Otago Peninsula is Taiaroa Head, about forty minutes from the city centre, where the magnificent Royal Albatross, the huge sea bird of mythology, soars above the rugged cliffs.

Nearby are colonies of the world's shyest penguin, the Yellow-eyed penguin, sharing secluded beaches with the New Zealand Fur Seals. Nesting grounds of other birds, including the White-fronted Tern, the Blue Penguin and many species of Cormorants are nearby. The rare Stewart Island Cormorant can also be seen in this area.

For the ultimate experience, the Monarch offers daily cruises all year round. This wooden ship of character and charm will enable you to 'become one with nature'. It allows an excellent view of the royal albatrosses, seals, penguins, cormorants and waders while the views of the spectacular Dunedin harbour are inspirational. No other place in the world will allow you to see the remarkable albatross breeding, for our mainland only, has been given this privilege.

Exhibits at the WestpacTrust Marine Aquarium, Portobello give insights into the complexity of marine life found around the Otago Peninsula and Coastal Otago. The aquarium displays a diversity of flora and fauna from the temperate southern waters. A feature of this display is touch tanks, for those seeking a closer encounter with nature.

Unspoiled natural habitats can be viewed on land, with the opportunity to take a professionally guided tour or can be seen cruising on the Otago Harbour. Organised harbour cruises offer excellent viewing of this marine habitat, as well as sightings of albatross, fur seals and nesting birds.

Once you have exhausted all avenues for viewing our wonderful wildlife you may choose to explore some of the city's gorgeous gardens. Within the city boundaries are numerous noteworthy gardens, from the formally laid out annual colour displays of the Railway Station gardens, to the delightful private gardens owned by local residents.

En route to Macandrew Bay is Glenfalloch Woodland Gardens. Nestled amongst 30 acres of paradise it features rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and fuschias. The historical Homestead offers intimate evening dining while the café and wine bar offers exceptional dining throughout the day.

Along the way you will encounter many settlements, a few shops and cafes along with several craft stores including the popular studio which specialises in handcrafted ceramic hens, appropriately named Happy Hens.

Dunedin Citibus Newton can offer you exceptional guided tours in and around the city. Tours depart daily and there are several to choose from. These include wildlife expeditions, scenic Dunedin and Larnach Castle. Travel aboard the double decker bus or by coach.