One of the best parts about travelling in New Zealand is that there are a variety of experiences to be had, without having to travel far. Dunedin is no exception. You can start your day surfing at the beach, and finish the day catching the sunset from the top of a huge rock pyramid. There are a number of ‘out-of this-world’ sights to see in Dunedin. Some are naturally formed, others, like the Dunedin Railway Station, are built. Here’s how to see eight very different locations from around the globe, in one New Zealand city. It’s a South Island getaway like you’ve never done before!
1. Bali
White sand beaches and crystal clear waters – it’s the stuff of tropical getaway dreams. Spend a day at Mapoutahi / Purakanui Beach and you’ll be convinced that you’re in Bali. Minus the hot temperatures! The southeast coast of the South Island of New Zealand is home to beaches, caves and vibes that transport you straight to Indonesia. Stroll through natural rock arches on the Taoka Arches beach walk at Doctor’s Point, and swing on the rope swing at Mapoutahi. Island hop to Quarantine Island / Kamau Taura and spend a whole day surfing at St Clair Beach. Really dial up the holiday mode and indulge in spa treatments at Spa St Clair before dining ocean side at Titi Restaurant.
It’s like Bali, but with wetsuits. Plan your Bali-inspired Dunedin trip here.
2. Pyramids
Scale the pyramids in Dunedin. On Okia reserve, a 30 minute drive from central Dunedin, you’ll discover ‘The Pyramids’. They are huge basalt volcanic columns formed in a very satisfying pyramid shape, and overlooking Victory Beach. Victory Beach is the longest beach on the Otago Peninsula so the spanning views from a-top the smaller pyramid are spectacular. The beach is home to penguins and seals, and the remains of a ship wrek. It’s bordered with sand dunes and the pristine shores are effectively untouched. Egypt is a pretty long flight, but Dunedin is just down the road.
See what else you can do in Dunedin that will remind you of Egypt here.
3. Amazon
Visit the most tropical and lush places in Dunedin, and immerse yourself in all things Amazon-like! The Tūhura’s Tropical Forest in the Otago Museum is especially convincing, with 75% humidity year-round. Full of exotic butterflies, stick insects and tarantulas, this tropical rainforest certainly doesn’t feel like New Zealand. A must-do in Dunedin is a visit to Orokonui Ecosanctuary where you’ll find rainforest walks and wildlife. Perhaps you’d like to stay somewhere that reflects an escape to the Amazon? Hereweka Garden Retreat is nestled in a valley of forest. Though lush, it’s all native forest here and the retreat overlooks Hoopers Inlet. This is the perfect place to put your feet up after exploring other tracks like those in Ross Creek and the Pineapple Track.
Find out more about the intriguing flora and fauna in Dunedin here.
4. Edinburgh
Dunedin is home to one of New Zealand’s only castles. A visit to Larnach Castle is a day out in itself with the castle tour, impressive gardens and cafe to keep you busy. Really delve deep into the culture and stay the night here too! Edinburgh-esque Dunedin continues with more Edwardian and Victorian architecture in the city center. Check out Dunedin Railway Station and Toitū Otago Settlers Museum. In true Scottish fashion, there’s always a cold pint available at Albar before a game of rugby live at Forsyth Stadium.
Feeling inspired? Get planning with a little help from Dunedin NZ here.
5. Bondi
Salt-spray in the air, funky cafes and shops and surfers in the big blue. On a good day at St Clair Beach, you’ll have to remind yourself that you’re in the deep south. This Dunedin beach transports you straight to the sandy shores of Bondi. The St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool is great for swimming or sitting pool side with a drink from Long Dog Cafe. Lock in some surf lessons or stroll through the beach side shops. Stick around for sunset and pizza at The Esplanade!
Here’s more on the Bondi-like goodies in Dunedin.
6. New York
That city that never sleeps, in New Zealand. Sort of. Some of the hidden gems and hole-in-the-wall spots around Dunedin feel like those you’d stumble across in the big city life. NYC style food is right here, thanks to Beam Me Up Bagels in North Dunedin, and Biggies Pizza in The Octagon. For a full day of urban vibes start with brunch at Vogel St Kitchen followed by a Dunedin Street Art Tour. Wrap it up with cocktails into the little hours at Mr Fox.
Learn more about how this small city packs a big city punch here.
7. Galápagos Islands
If you’re dreaming of crazy unique natural landscapes and bizzare destinations to really spice up your travel stories, you may not have to travel as far as you think. Dunedin has volcanic origins, therefore there are some incredible land formations here. Walk the Sandymount Track to The Chasm for dramatic coastal views. A boat tour with Port to Port shows off the Otago Harbour and all the mind-blowing volcanic formations. Sounding exotic?! Dunedin is proof that New Zealand has diverse landscapes within one small city alone. There’s no doubt the Galápagos Islands should be on your list, but Dunedin could tick that box a whole lot sooner.
Plan a tour of Dunedin’s impressive natural landscapes and wildlife colonies with the information here!
8. Great Ocean Road
Who doesn’t love a good road trip? Picturesque coastlines and interesting routes included. Just like the Great Ocean Road in Australia, drives like Brighton to Taieri Mouth in Dunedin follow rocky shores and views out to the ocean. Yet in Dunedin, the options span past one road. Check out Seacliff Drive and the Otago Harbour road. Hit the road from Dunedin City to Port Chalmers and cruise past pubs, cafes and boat sheds. It’s all so good that it’s comparable to one of the world’s most scenic drives. Lay out your road trip routes with this itinerary.
For loads more information, visit Dunedin NZ.
This article was created in paid partnership with Dunedin NZ.
