Dunedin combines dramatic coastal scenery, Scottish heritage and distinctive city experiences on New Zealand’s southeast coast. Known for its historic architecture and the wildlife-rich Otago Peninsula, the city offers a mix of sightseeing, cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
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Explore Dunedin’s coastal scenery, historic charm, wildlife and memorable guided experiences.
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Discover things to do in Dunedin, from coastal sightseeing tours and scenic rail journeys to cycling, historic homes and interactive museum experiences. Explore the city’s Scottish heritage and Otago Peninsula scenery, then continue across the South Island or visit nearby Queenstown and Fiordland.
Things to do in Dunedin
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Activities and Attractions in Dunedin
Queenstown to Dunedin (One-Way) Including Tai...
Travel from alpine Queenstown to coastal Dunedin in comfort and style
from NZ $299.00
7 Hours 45 Mins 
from NZ $26.50
1 Hours 
City Highlights, Larnach Castle & Peninsu...
Dunedin City highlights Great views of the East Coast
from NZ $209
5 hours 
Tūhura Otago Museum Science Centre Day Pass
45 interactives, including a vertical wind tunnel, the light-filled void, and a tornado maker!
from NZ $20
7 hours 
from NZ $170.00
3 Hours 
Dunedin to Queenstown Including Taieri Gorge ...
Ride the legendary Taieri Gorge Train through viaducts and canyons few ever see
from NZ $299.00
9 Hours 30 Mins 
from NZ $420.00
3 hours 30 mins
from NZ $49.00
4 hours 
Taieri Gorge Scenic Rail Journey with Deep St...
Journey into the world-renowned Taieri Gorge, accessible only by rail
from NZ $169.00
4 Hours 45 Mins 
Dunedin: Scenic Railway Tour of Otago's Coast...
Admire Dunedin’s most beautiful coastal sites all from the comfort of our train
from NZ $135.00
3 Hours 30 Mins Find your perfect Dunedin experience
Travel Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Dunedin
Where is Dunedin located?
Dunedin is a city located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated at the head of the Otago Harbour, on the South Islands southeast coast. Dunedin is the principal city of the Otago region and is known for its Scottish heritage, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and as the home of the University of Otago.
What is Dunedin best known for?
Dunedin is best known for its Scottish heritage, historic architecture, wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, including rare penguins and albatross, and its vibrant student culture.
How do I get to Dunedin?
You can get to Dunedin by flying into Dunedin Airport from major New Zealand cities, by bus or coach services from other South Island towns, or by driving via State Highway 1 and scenic routes from cities like Christchurch or Queenstown.
Is Dunedin family-friendly?
Yes, Dunedin is family-friendly, offering attractions like the Otago Museum, Dunedin Wildlife Tours, beaches, parks, and fun outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
What is the weather like in Dunedin?
Dunedin has a temperate climate with cool, wet winters and mild summers, often with changeable weather and occasional strong winds.
Does it snow in Dunedin?
Snow settles in the city centre relatively rarely (perhaps 1-2 days a year), but it frequently snows on the hill suburbs (Wakari, Maori Hill) and Mount Cargill during winter cold snaps. It typically melts within a day or two. Road closures can occur on the hill passes (Northern Motorway) during heavy snow events.
How long should I spend in Dunedin?
Most visitors spend 2–3 days in Dunedin to explore the city’s historic sites, wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, and nearby natural attractions.
Tourist Information About Dunedin
Surrounded by dramatic bush-covered hills and valleys at the head of the long Otago Peninsula is Dunedin, New Zealand's first City. One of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere, it wears its Scottish heritage with pride. Dunedin is the main centre of Otago, a region recognized for its spectacular scenery, and the Otago Peninsula is internationally renowned as the Wildlife Capital of New Zealand. On Dunedin's doorstep, you will find incredible wildlife, including the world's rarest penguins and the world's only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross. Along the stunning sandy beaches around Dunedin, you will also likely find New Zealand fur seals, Hooker Sea Lions, and the occasional Sea Elephant.
Best Attractions and things to do in Dunedin
1. Olveston Historic Home
Olveston was designed as a family home with exquisite art, furniture, and antiquities from all around the world. Because there were no heirs, the house and its contents were donated to the City of Dunedin. Olveston is a time capsule, with minimal change inside since it was occupied as a home between 1906 and 1966.
2. Signal Hill Walk
When it comes to free Dunedin attractions, Signal Hill is a terrific choice. The beginning of the Signal Hill trek is conveniently located in town. You'll be rewarded with magnificent views of Dunedin at the summit.
3. Visit Larnach Castle
A trip to Larnach Castle is a must-do for anybody visiting Dunedin.
The lone castle in New Zealand is a prominent and well-loved part of Dunedin's heritage. Larnach Castle, which was built in 1871 by William Larnach, a merchant and politician of Scottish ancestry, has been lovingly restored to its original Victorian splendor, and its lovely chambers and gardens are open to the public 365 days a year. The castle has a 3,000-square-foot ballroom that holds high tea every day at 3 p.m., as well as a tower with panoramic views of the Otago Peninsula.
4. Visit Port Chalmers
Historic Port Chalmers is a short drive from Dunedin and is truly charming. The village has a unique combination of historical sites, cafés, and galleries. This small town's creative community has resulted in a plethora of lively art and culture, ranging from potters and sculptors to painters, musicians, and jewelers.
Port Chalmers is a popular weekend destination for Dunedin residents and one of their favorite activities.
5. Explore Dunedin’s beaches
Only a few minutes' drive from the city center, you can relax on one of Dunedin's beautiful beaches.
St Clair is a popular surf spot, other beaches such as Aramoana, Murdering Bay, and Karitane all have good waves. If you merely want to swim, Brighton Beach, about 20 minutes from Dunedin, is a lovely option.
Long Beach contains large caves to explore and is suitable for rock climbing, while Tunnel Beach has a beautiful sandstone sea arch that is best seen at low tide.
6. Otago Museum
For 150 years, the Otago Museum has shared world-class treasures. The museum conveys stories about nature, culture, and science with nearly 1.5 million pieces. There is a three-story slide, a bike-riding skeleton, and, most of all, an indoor Tropical Forest where you can walk amongst a thousand rainforest butterflies, making it New Zealand's largest and only bicultural science facility.
7. Cycling and mountain biking
Dunedin's compact city structure and flat roads make it ideal for cycling tours, while the surrounding countryside features five mountain biking trail networks. Signal Hill has the best downhill track in the country, and it's only 40 minutes from the city center.
Middlemarch is around an hour's drive from Dunedin and serves as the start of the well-known Otago Central Rail Trail. Historic gold mining sites, country pubs, and tranquil, golden-hued scenery are all part of this 150-kilometer trail.
8. Pineapple Track Walk
Here's another trekking destination to add to your list of Dunedin attractions. There are numerous ways to enjoy Dunedin, and this is one of them. This walk can be done on the road or, if your feet are feeling up to it, via the Skyline walkway, which begins in Glenleith.
9. Botanic Gardens
The vast Botanic Gardens are probably the most well-known of all Dunedin attractions. There are several paths through the tranquil and well-kept gardens to choose from. While you're there, make an effort to converse with the parrots at the aviary. Opoho Road is where you'll find the Botanic Garden.
10. Tunnel Beach
This coastal landscape is dominated by natural sandstone cliffs, archways, and pillars. Tunnel Beach is located in South Dunedin, just off Blackhead Road. Drive to Corstorphine or take a local bus route 32, 33, 34, 35, or 36. It takes about 30 minutes to walk from the corner of Middleton Road and Stenhope Crescent to the start of the track.
Top attractions in Dunedin
The Olveston Historic Home Tour: This is a fascinating tour of the Olveston Historic Home, a beautiful Edwardian mansion that has been preserved as it was when it was occupied as a home between 1906 and 1966. The house is furnished with fine art, furniture, and artifacts from all around the world, and the tour offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of the time.
Tūhura Otago Museum Science Centre Day Pass: This is a fun and educational experience for families. The largest science centre in New Zealand, Tūhura Otago Museum Science Centre, features a Tropical Forest filled with live exotic butterflies and many hands-on interactives that will encourage a whole day of fun, learning, and discovery! It is a great way for kids to learn about science and nature in an interactive and engaging way.
The best things to do near Dunedin
The Mountain Experience Quad Bike Tour: This is a thrilling and exciting way to explore the rugged terrain. You'll ride a quad bike over hills, valleys, and through streams, taking in the stunning views of the region. This is a great way to experience the outdoors and get an adrenaline rush.
Milford Sound Luxury Private tour: This tour takes you to the spectacular Milford Sound and offers a unique and luxurious way to explore the region. You'll have a private guide and enjoy the stunning views of the sound, the fiords, and the Southern Alps, and have a chance to spot unique wild animals.
Milford Sound, Southern Alps, and Fiordland National Park Heli Flight: This is a spectacular way to see the Milford Sound, the Southern Alps, and the Fiordland National Park from above. You'll fly over rugged mountains, glaciers, and alpine meadows and get an unforgettable view of the region.
Stewart Island: Fly | Explore | Fly: This tour takes you to the beautiful Stewart Island, where you'll fly to the island, spend time exploring and seeing the unique wildlife, and then fly back. This is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Stewart Island and see the unique wildlife, such as the kiwi birds.
Glacier Galore: This tour takes you to the glaciers of the region, where you can see the stunning views of the glaciers, ice formations, and alpine landscapes. You'll have a chance to land on the glacier and walk around and explore the area.
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