Dunedin – it just hits a little different!
Wildlife
Finding wilderness far from the city is not hard at all in Dunedin. Surrounded by a vast peninsula and the Pacific Ocean, it’s abundant with sea, air and land-dwelling wildlife and they are easy to find if you know where to look!
One of the easiest ways to do so is by taking a tour with Monarch Cruises – on your journey you’ll be treated to sightings of dolphins, fur seals, sea lions, blue penguins, albatross, and many other ocean birds! Make sure you dress for all weather; it can be unpredictable in these parts but your tour guides for the day have you covered with sturdy waterproof jackets and a pair of binoculars for ultimate animal and bird spotting!
Surfboard Lessons and Hire
Surf’s up dude! You may not know it, but Dunedin has some of the best surf beaches around, and if you’ve wanted to learn to surf, then a lesson at Dunedin’s St Clair Beach is the perfect place to learn how to ride those waves!
Esplanade Surf School offer individually tailored surf lessons right through to group lessons or even board hire for those with a little more experience who prefer to ride solo.
With all the gear provided, it makes it easy for you to jump in and learn everything about this exhilarating and fun sport!
See the Royal Northern Albatross
Attention bird lovers! Dunedin is home to the Royal Northern Albatross – the world’s largest seabird with a wingspan of up to a whopping 3.45m.
New Zealand is lucky enough to claim home to these majestic birds and has the world’s only mainland breeding colony located at Tairoa Head on the Otago Peninsula. With roughly 20,000 Northern Royal Albatross in the world, the species is considered endangered and that’s what makes visiting this colony all the more special.
You can catch a glimpse of the Albatross by taking a guided tour with the Royal Albatross Centre and get an exclusive viewing from their glassed observatory or hop on a scenic flight where you’ll circle the headlands and lighthouse before cruising over the colony!
Arts and Architecture
Explore Dunedin’s unique city charm by delving into its iconic landmarks and unique art galleries and street art!
The Dunedin Railway station is a sight to behold and one of the city’s most recognisable and photographed architectural landmarks. The station dates back to 1906 and was built with sturdy Oamaru limestone and its design similarly resembles that of a Gingerbread House. On Saturdays, the station is home to the Otago Farmers Market where you can nab yourself a range of treats from the local artisan stalls.
Unlike our friends in the United Kingdom, New Zealand has one castle, and it was built in 1871 by William Larnach – naming it Larnach Castle. A Dunedin must-do is to take a tour of the castle and learn about its rich and scandalous history – from pristine dream home where luxurious balls and parties were held to mental asylum, hospital for soldiers and a nun’s retreat, the castle is certainly worth a visit. If only the walls could talk right?!
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time” – Thomas Merton. Dunedin may once have been a mass of grey buildings but its now alive with street art and galleries just waiting to be explored. You can pick up a map from Dunedin i-Site Visitor Centre of all the eclectic Street Art across the city which viewed on foot on a sunny day. Need more inspo? Neat Places have put together this great ‘Day Guide to Dunedin Arts and Architecture’ – check it out and get planning.
Looking for great deals on Dunedin activities? Check out Book Me for great discounted experiences!
Accommodation
Our centrally located Scenic Hotel Southern Cross and Scenic Hotel Dunedin City both offer comfortable guest rooms and extensive services and facilities. Whether you are staying for business or pleasure, our hotels are perfectly located to explore Dunedin City.