Let’s face it, when choosing a holiday destination, Dunedin might not be number 1 on your must see list to visit, but we’re here to tell you that this gem of the South has everything you might be looking for.
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 breeding colony 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!
Stop for a bite or brew at Boldini Café!
Our (Scenic’s) very own boutique café! You’ll find Boldini located on the ground floor of Scenic Hotel Southern Cross… but it’s not your average hotel café restaurant! Serving from 8am-2pm daily, the menu is full of delicious breakfast options that melt in your mouth and a cabinet full of light snacks, lunch and sweet treats. In a hurry? Download the Bolini Café app from the Apple or Google Play stores and grab your coffee on the go! You’ll even get a free mini muffin with your first coffee purchased through the app!