Things To Do
in Dunedin
Dunedin is a charming coastal city situated in the South Island of New Zealand. Known for its Scottish heritage, Dunedin boasts stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture. The city is home to the University of Otago, making it a vibrant student hub with a lively arts and cultural scene.
Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, Dunedin offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the picturesque Otago Peninsula.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Dunedin Railway Station. Visit the city's famous farmers market for some fresh local produce.
Head to the Otago Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Don't forget to stop by the nearby Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving fresh seafood. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Dunedin waterfront to end your day.
Visit the Otago Peninsula for a chance to see albatrosses and sea lions at the Royal Albatross Centre. Take a guided tour for an informative experience.
Explore the stunning landscapes of the peninsula with a visit to Tunnel Beach. The unique rock formations and sea views are not to be missed.
Dine at a cozy café on the peninsula while watching the sunset. Relax and listen to the waves crashing against the shore.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including coastal views and lush landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage with a strong Scottish influence.
- Vibrant arts and music scene with a variety of festivals and events.
- Home to several universities and educational institutions, providing a youthful atmosphere.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other major New Zealand cities.
- Access to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife experiences.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, particularly for specialized roles.
- Potentially harsh weather, with cold winters and high rainfall.
- Some areas may feel isolated due to the distance from larger urban centers.
- Public transport options may be less frequent compared to bigger cities.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities like Auckland or Wellington.
Best Activities in Dunedin
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A stunning beach with sea-carved sandstone cliffs and a natural tunnel accessible during low tide. Great for walking, photography, and beachcombing.
Explore the scenic Otago Peninsula with its beautiful bays, beaches, and diverse wildlife. Enjoy hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching, including the chance to see penguins and albatross.
Visit the steepest street in the world, known for its challenging yet rewarding walking or running experience. Offers unique photo opportunities and a sense of achievement.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dunedin with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dunedin
Visit one of these nice places.
Known as the steepest street in the world and offers unique photo opportunities
Provides panoramic views of Dunedin city and the Otago Peninsula
Offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and Otago Harbour
Food in Dunedin
Dunedin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish made with Pāua (abalone) blended with eggs, flour, and seasoning, then pan-fried to a golden crisp. Best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants such as Fleur's Place in Moeraki or the Oyster & Chop in Dunedin.
Must-Try!
Another local favorite, whitebait fritters are made with a delicate combination of whitebait, eggs, and seasonings, then pan-fried to perfection. Look for this delicacy at popular eateries like Etrusco at the Savoy or Portobello Hotel Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dunedin better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant and bustling market offering a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and gourmet food stalls. Don't miss the chance to sample local cheeses, fresh fruits, and diverse street food offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dunedin, it is important to show respect for the indigenous Maori culture by learning about their customs, traditions, and language. Greeting people with a 'kia ora' and respecting sacred sites is crucial.
Punctuality is highly valued in Dunedin. Being on time for meetings, appointments, and social gatherings is considered respectful and shows consideration for others' time.
Dunedin places a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability. It is respectful to participate in eco-friendly practices, such as recycling and conserving energy, and to show appreciation for the natural beauty of the region.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dunedin with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dunedin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Dunedin, New Zealand is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, bars, or other service-oriented establishments. The standard practice is to pay the amount indicated on the bill, and tipping is not necessary.
The most common forms of payment in Dunedin, New Zealand are cash, credit/debit cards, and electronic payment methods. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. Cash is widely accepted, but some smaller vendors may only accept cash payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dunedin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer is the peak tourist season in Dunedin, with warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach trips, and wildlife tours. This is also the time for events and festivals like the Dunedin Summer Festival and the Otago Food and Wine Festival.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and stunning foliage, making it a great time for scenic drives and walks amidst the changing colors of the trees. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant arts and cultural scene in Dunedin during this time.
Winter in Dunedin is chilly, but it offers unique experiences like the chance to see rare wildlife such as albatross and penguins, as well as enjoying cozy evenings in the city's cafes and bars. The city also hosts events like the Dunedin Winter Festival and the Cadbury Chocolate Carnival.
Spring is the time when Dunedin's gardens and wildlife come to life, with blossoming flowers and newborn animals. It's a great time for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts, as well as for attending events like the Vogel Street Party and the Dunedin Arts Festival.
Dunedin at Night
Hiking in Dunedin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot providing stunning panoramic views of Dunedin and the surrounding area. The summit can be reached via several walking tracks.
This scenic coastal track offers beautiful views of Otago Harbour and takes you along the waterfront towards Port Chalmers.
A unique conservation area with walking trails that showcase native flora and fauna. The accessible tracks make it suitable for all fitness levels.
A picturesque bay featuring sand dunes and a tranquil beach, accessible via a short walk through the dunes. Great for spotting wildlife, including sea lions.
A challenging hike that rewards you with incredible views of Dunedin, the Otago Peninsula, and beyond. Multiple trails lead to the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dunedin through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dunedin by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, located approximately 1,000 kilometers north of Dunedin.
The second largest airport in New Zealand, situated about 360 kilometers north of Dunedin.
The primary airport serving New Zealand's capital, located around 740 kilometers north of Dunedin.
A major regional airport approximately 250 kilometers northwest of Dunedin, popular for international flights to Australia.
While not as large as the others, it serves international destinations and is located just east of Dunedin city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Dunedin, primarily of British and Irish descent.
The indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, constituting a significant cultural presence in Dunedin.
A growing demographic group, including Chinese, Indian, and other Asian nationalities.
Includes individuals from various Pacific Islands, contributing to the cultural diversity of Dunedin.
A smaller but diverse group representing different cultures from these regions.
Includes individuals from various backgrounds not classified under the main demographic categories.
The Soul of Dunedin
Discover the essence of Dunedin through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Dunedin, with a strong local culture and support for teams such as the Highlanders in the Super Rugby competition.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Dunedin, with numerous clubs and a strong presence in school and regional competitions.
Football has grown in popularity in Dunedin, with clubs participating in various leagues and a dedicated fan base.
Netball is widely played among women and girls in Dunedin, with many local clubs and schools actively participating in competitions.
Given its proximity to waterways, rowing is a popular sport in Dunedin, with several clubs providing opportunities for both competitive and recreational rowing.
Basketball is growing in popularity, with local leagues and schools fostering youth participation and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dunedin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Dunedin's dining scene has embraced vegetarian and vegan offerings, with many eateries featuring dedicated menus or clearly marked options for plant-based diners. Notable places include The Good Earth Cafe and The Federal Delicatessen.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can explore a variety of gluten-free options across the city, including The Perc Cafe and The Kitchen Table. These establishments take care to provide delicious gluten-free alternatives for their patrons.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dunedin with these cultural adventures.
