Situated in the South Island of New Zealand, Dunedin is a city with strong links to Scottish heritage and is often known as the ‘Edinburgh’ of New Zealand. The city is well-preserved in its Victorian and Edwardian structures and features a picturesque harbour, a great nightlife, amazing restaurants, lots of wildlife including the world’s rarest penguin colonies and plenty of natural attractions.
Otago Peninsula
With volcanic origins, Otago Peninsula forms the easternmost part of Dunedin and and is home to a large number of wildlife species, especially seabirds, penguins and seals. Make sure to head to Taiaroa Head. because it serves as the only mainland breeding site of any species of albatross in the world! At Otago Peninsula, you can hop on small off-road group tours to go and see wildlife in the area. If you are after flexibility adn want to wander off at your own pace you can also get car rental services around Christchurch. Venture around Otago Harbour and explore local attractions such as Larnach Castle, Macandrew Bay and Broad Bay.
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Larnach Castle & Gardens
Located on the Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle offers an excellent castle experience, award winning gardens, functions and events, dining and accommodation with exceptional quality. Construction of Larnach Castle was completed in 1874 and the castle has been through many changes of ownership and use but nowadays is a popular tourist destination offering tours to the public.
Penguin Place
A private conservation reserve with the purpose of aiding in the survival of the endangered yellow eyed penguin, Penguin Palace provides guided tours which funds the project’s habitat restoration, predator control, animal rehab and research for penguins. Tours will take you around the reserve through trench systems and viewing hides where you can see the penguins at a close distance but without disturbing them.
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Tunnel Beach
South of St Clair, Tunnel Beach features sandstone cliffs, rock arches and caves. Where it gets its name from is the naturally but dimly-lit tunnel that goes down to the beach. The tunnel was actually hand carved in the 1870s so that people could access the secluded Tunnel Beach!
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Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
The most extensive history museum of New Zealand, the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum is a regional history museum that explores the history of settlement in New Zealand from the Waitaki River south. You’ll learn about how life in New Zealand has changed, from the lives of indigenous Maori, early Chinese settlers and other migrant groups, introduction of new technologies, culture, fashion and art.
Dunedin Railway Station
This railway station was designed by architect George Troup. It opened in 1906 and is located at Anzac Square, Dunedin. Built in a Renaissance Revival architectural style, Dunedin Railway Station is a fine specimen of the city’s most prosperous years. Every Saturday morning there’s a farmers market in Anzac Square right outside the station. Also, tourist trains often run from the station and are a great opportunity for sightseeing up the coast of the South Island. These sightseeing trains are the only trains that are currently operating at the station!
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A city of picturesque views, wildlife and nature. What are you waiting for? Start your search for cheap flights to Dunedin and have a blast in the New Zealand’s ‘Edinburgh’
