Things To Do
in Dunedin
Dunedin is a compact, historic city on New Zealand’s southeast coast, known for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture and a strong Scottish heritage. It’s a university town (University of Otago) with lively student culture, theatres, cafés and a robust craft-beer scene. The nearby Otago Peninsula and rugged coastline are world-class for wildlife viewing — albatross, seals and penguins — and dramatic coastal photography.
Dunedin’s hills and windy maritime climate give it character: atmospheric streets, steep lanes and easy access to natural escapes within minutes of the city centre.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, admiring its stunning architecture and taking some photos. Afterward, stroll over to the nearby Otago Museum to explore its fascinating exhibits on natural history and cultural heritage. Don't forget to grab a light breakfast at one of the local cafes, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and pastries.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Octagon, where you can enjoy street performances and visit local shops. Take a leisurely walk to the historic First Church of Otago, and marvel at its stunning stained glass windows and impressive architecture. Complete your afternoon with a visit to the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, showcasing contemporary art from New Zealand and around the world.
As the sun sets, head to one of Dunedin's renowned restaurants for a taste of local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes. After dinner, take a twilight walk along the picturesque Stuart Street, where the lights of the city create a magical ambiance. Cap off your evening with a drink at a cozy pub, listening to live music or engaging with friendly locals.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to the Otago Peninsula, where breathtaking views of the coastline await. Stop by the Royal Albatross Centre to learn about these majestic birds and possibly catch a glimpse of them soaring above. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a café with stunning views over the harbor, fueling up for your wildlife adventure.
In the afternoon, join a guided tour to see the unique wildlife of the peninsula, including sea lions and penguins in their natural habitat. Explore the beautiful beaches and rugged cliffs while listening to your guide share fascinating facts about the local ecosystem. Don’t forget your camera, as the sights are truly postcard-worthy.
Return to Dunedin in the evening and unwind at one of the local breweries, where you can sample craft beers brewed in the region. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while reflecting on the day’s adventures surrounded by fellow travelers. For dinner, choose from several eateries offering delicious local dishes, perhaps trying some traditional Kiwi fare.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee / Flat white | $3.50-5 |
| 🍺Pint at a bar / craft beer | $7-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within city) | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to wildlife and dramatic coastal scenery close to the city
- Compact, walkable city centre with notable Victorian architecture and lively student culture
- Strong café, craft beer and food scene disproportionate to city size
- Good base for exploring Otago and Central Otago attractions (wildlife, hiking, vineyards)
- Weather can be changeable and windy — plan layers and flexible schedules
- Public transport outside the city centre is limited; a car is useful for peninsula and regional trips
- Some attractions (wildlife viewing) are seasonal or weather-dependent
- Fewer late-night transport options compared with larger cities
- "Kia ora" - Hello / Good health (common greeting)
- "Tēnā koe" - Formal greeting to one person
- "Ngā mihi" - Thank you / regards
- "Haere mai" - Welcome / come here
- "Excuse me / Sorry — Aroha mai" - Apology or excuse me
- "Where is...?" - Common English phrase useful everywhere (English is widely spoken)
Places to Visit in Dunedin
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Edwardian architecture with ornate tiles, good for architectural and street photography, especially in soft morning light.
Dramatic coastal cliffs, seabird colonies and panoramic harbour vistas — prime for wildlife and landscape photography (use long lens for birds).
Sea-eroded sandstone cliffs and a man-made access tunnel to a secluded cove — excellent for dramatic sunset and long-exposure shots.
World’s steepest residential street — fun for quirky perspective shots and local novelty photos.
Historic castle with manicured gardens and scenic views over the harbour — great for portrait and architectural photography.
Surf culture, rock formations and the oceanfront promenade — good for action shots, surfers at golden hour and wide coastal scenes.
Panoramic views over the city, harbour and peninsula — ideal at sunrise or sunset for wide-angle landscapes.
Remote beaches with wildlife (sea lions, penguins at Sandfly Bay) and sweeping dunes — be mindful of wildlife distance rules when photographing.
Food in Dunedin
Dunedin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seafood chowders and fish soups featuring local white fish; commonly available in seafood restaurants and cafes along the harbour.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted or grilled Otago lamb served in many bistros and pubs — look for farm-to-table menus at local restaurants.
Fresh mussels from the South Island and oysters when in season; try them at seafood restaurants or the harbour-side eateries.
Hearty breakfasts with eggs, toast, local sauces and good coffee — cafés around the Octagon and student areas excel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Regular farmers’ markets (weekends) and smaller markets sell local produce, cheeses, baked goods and ready-to-eat stalls — great for sampling seasonal foods and meeting producers.
Market with local fruit, veg, meat and artisan products — ideal for picnic supplies or tasting local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Kiwis are informal and polite — a simple greeting, handshake or 'Kia ora' is common. Be friendly but not intrusive.
Show respect at marae or cultural sites: follow host instructions, remove hats indoors if asked and observe pōwhiri (formal welcome) protocol when attending official events.
Respect wildlife by keeping distance and staying on marked paths; much coastal access crosses private farmland — follow signs and close gates.
Drive on the left, expect narrow rural roads and give way to agricultural vehicles; watch for sheep and wildlife at dawn/dusk.
Safety
Tipping in Dunedin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not generally expected in New Zealand but appreciated for exceptional service (5–10%). In pubs and cafés most locals don’t tip; in restaurants and on private tours a discretionary tip is welcome.
Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; EFTPOS and contactless payments are common. Carry a small amount of cash for markets and very small vendors; ATMs are available in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December–February: Warmest period (highs around 18–24°C / 64–75°F), ideal for coastal walks, swimming and wildlife tours; expect long daylight hours and busy weekends.
March–May: Cool, crisp days with colourful foliage in the gardens; good for hiking and photography, and fewer tourists than summer.
June–August: Chilly, often windy and occasionally rainy (highs 8–12°C / 46–54°F); good for city sightseeing, café culture and nearby ski trips to Central Otago—pack warm layers.
September–November: Variable weather with blooms in parks and gardens; great for wildlife (breeding seasons) and fewer crowds, though be prepared for wind and sporadic rain.
Dunedin at Night
Hiking in Dunedin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with ridge-top views over Dunedin and the harbour; accessible and popular for sunrise/sunset trips.
A distinctive cone-shaped hill offering panoramic views of the Otago Harbour and peninsula; moderate climb with rewarding vistas.
Coastal track down to the sandstone cliffs and beach — short but steep sections and steps lead to dramatic seascapes.
Coastal walks on the Otago Peninsula with dunes, beachscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities (sea lions, penguins at Sandfly Bay).
Network of well-maintained trails through native forest in a predator-free sanctuary — great for birdwatching and easy to moderate walks.
Multi-day cycling and walking trail through Central Otago; sections can be accessed as day trips for easier terrain and scenic countryside.
Airports
How to reach Dunedin by plane.
About 20–25 minutes’ drive from the city centre (approx. 30 km by road); handles domestic flights to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and regional services. Taxis and shuttle services connect to the city.
Around 1.5–2 hours drive south of Dunedin; smaller airport with regional flights and a useful alternative for southern access or onward travel to Stewart Island.
Approximately 3–4 hours’ drive (or short domestic flight) — serves many domestic and some international flights and is a gateway for Central Otago and alpine activities.
Major international airport on the South Island; about a 4–5 hour drive or a short domestic flight from Dunedin — useful for international connections and rental-car options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large population of domestic and international students from the University of Otago drives nightlife, cafés and events; contributes to a youthful vibe.
The majority demographic, reflected in cultural events, museums and historic architecture.
Important local iwi and Māori presence with cultural programs and involvement in education, arts and conservation.
Dunedin has a notable proportion of older residents and families attracted by community services, healthcare and coastal lifestyle.
Growing Asian and Pacific student and professional communities, particularly linked to the university and healthcare sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby union is hugely popular here as across NZ; Otago Rugby (provincial) and Super Rugby fandom are strong with matches and community participation.
Summer sports with active local clubs and school competitions; social and spectator scenes around the city.
Harbour and rivers foster rowing, kayaking and sailing; Otago has a strong rowing tradition tied to the university.
St Clair is the main surfing hub; a popular local sport with lessons and a surf community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dunedin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafés and many restaurants offer vegetarian mains, salads and good brunch options; ask for dairy-free alternatives if needed and many places can adapt dishes.
Vegan and gluten-free options are increasingly common in Dunedin cafés and some restaurants; specialty bakeries and health-food shops carry alternatives. Always mention restrictions and check menus in advance for cross-contamination if you have severe allergies.
Seafood is a big part of local cuisine; be explicit about allergies when ordering — English is spoken widely and staff are used to accommodating requests.