A city of steep hills and Victorian architecture, with a lively student quarter and the central Octagon square. Home to Speight's beer and the scenic Otago Peninsula.
Dunedin, on New Zealand's South Island, is a city rich in Scottish influence and natural beauty. You can explore Victorian and Edwardian buildings, walk along the rugged Otago Peninsula coastline, watch royal albatrosses at their nesting site, stroll through a Chinese garden, or test your stamina on the world's steepest residential street.
Dunedin's Architectural Landmarks
Dunedin's cityscape reflects its 19th-century prosperity, with many well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings. The Dunedin Railway Station, completed in 1906, stands out with its dark basalt and white Oamaru stone facade. Inside, you'll find mosaic floors and a beautifully tiled booking hall. From here, you can board the Taieri Gorge Railway for a journey through the scenic hinterland. On the University of Otago campus, you'll see examples of Gothic Revival architecture, including the clock tower building dating back to 1879.
Wildlife Viewing on the Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula, a short drive from downtown, is home to several rare and endangered species. At the Royal Albatross Centre, you can watch northern royal albatrosses nesting on the mainland. As evening approaches, you might see yellow-eyed penguins, one of the world's rarest penguin species, returning to shore. Several companies run wildlife cruises where you can observe New Zealand fur seals and sea lions in their natural habitat, with occasional sightings of dolphins or whales.
Museums and Galleries in Dunedin
Dunedin has several cultural institutions to explore. The Toitū Otago Settlers Museum takes you through the region's history, from early Māori settlements to contemporary times, with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts. At the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, you can view a collection of both New Zealand and international artworks. For a change of pace, visit the Lan Yuan Chinese Garden, a calm space that commemorates Dunedin's historical ties with China.
Activities Around the City
Dunedin's geography provides various options for physical activities. You can catch waves at St. Clair Beach, take a walk through the forested Town Belt, or bike along the harbor front. The Pineapple Track on Flagstaff Hill involves a more strenuous hike with views of the city and coastline. Baldwin Street holds the Guinness World Record for the steepest residential street. You can attempt to walk up its 1:2.86 gradient or take a photo at the bottom.
Local Food and Beverages
Dunedin's food scene focuses on local ingredients and craft beverages. Every Saturday, the Otago Farmers Market sets up near the railway station, where you can buy fresh produce and try artisanal foods from the region. The city has several craft breweries, many of which have tours and tastings. At Emerson's Brewery, you can learn about different beer styles and the brewing process, then sample a selection of their beers.
Transportation in Dunedin
While you can explore much of central Dunedin on foot, having a car is useful for visiting the Otago Peninsula and other outlying areas. The city has a bus network that serves most neighborhoods. Dunedin also has an international airport with regular flights to Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, as well as some routes to Australian cities.
