Dunedin - character and culture

PHOTO: Lower Octagon, Dunedin

Nestled in tree-clad hills at the head of a spectacular harbour, Dunedin is known for its unspoilt heritage of Edwardian and Victorian architecture, its unique proximity to rare wildlife, its rich cultural resources, its variety of recreational opportunities and its warm, friendly people.

Founded by Scottish settlers nearly 150 years ago, Dunedin became the financial capital of New Zealand during the Otago gold rushes. From those days, the city inherits a rich legacy of superb public buildings and homes.

On the Otago Peninsula, a short drive from the central city, the magnificent Royal Albatross makes its home amidst outstanding scenery. Here too, on the rugged eastern coast, you can find the Hoiho, or Yellow-Eyed Penguin, many other rare birds and colonies of seals and sea lions.

But Dunedin is more than buildings and animals. There are several live theatre companies, an opera society, and concerts, galleries, museums and libraries. There are many recreational opportunities - on land, in the water and in the air.

Dunedin is a university city and home to some 25,000 students, which creates a richness and vibrancy distinct to any other New Zealand city.

Indeed, there is so much to do in Dunedin, you may never want to go home. Plan to spend at least two full days to cover the highlights of Dunedin.

Been There Done That!

Cadbury World - A delight for chocolate lovers of all ages....more info can be gained from www.cadburyworld.co.nz
Royal Albatross - the only mainland breeding colony of these giant sea birds.
Yellow Eyed Penguins - the worlds rarest penguin. Viewing options are available on the Peninsula.
New Zealand Fur Seals - excellent viewing of the seals in their natural habitat.
Larnach Castle - New Zealand's only castle. History, scandal, ghosts, gardens and views.
Olveston - Jacobean style grand home of the Theomin family. Antiques and art collection.
Otago Settlers Museum - experience the social history of the settlement of Dunedin and Otago. Special exhibitions, genealogy research.
Speights Brewery - tours 7 days a week. Learn how the beer is made then sample many beers brewed on site.
Monarch Wildlife Cruises - get close up to the wildlife of the harbour and Peninsula.
Taieri Gorge Railway - travel through the spectacular Taieri river gorge. Pioneer country!
Carisbrook - see the ‘House of Pain' home of Otago Rugby (playing season March-October)
Architecture - admire New Zealand's largest concentration of Victorian and Edwardian buildings, including the Municipal Chambers and St Paul's Anglican Cathedral at The Octagon, Dunedin Railway Station on Anzac Avenue, the Law Courts on Stuart Street and old Dunedin Prison on Lower High Street, to name but a few.

Something For Nothing!!

Baldwin Street - the steepest street in the world! Otago University - oldest university in New Zealand. Explore by yourself.
Otago Museum - world class Maori and Pacific Islands collections and the stunning new Southern Land Southern People Gallery.
Dunedin Public Art Gallery houses one of the finest collections of art in the country - In the Octagon. Charge for special exhibitions.
Botanic Gardens - New Zealand's oldest with outstanding plant collections. Display houses and aviary. The Rhododendron Dell is spectacular during Spring.
City Walks - guided tours or get a street map and go for it!
Walking Tracks huge variety of rural walks, 1 hour to 1 day, e.g. Lovers Leap, Mt. Cargill, Organ Pipes track.

Getting From A To B

There is a comprehensive public bus service both around the city and beyond. Pick up a bus timetable and route booklet from Dunedin's Visitor Information Centre, or your backpackers accommodation. Shuttle buses and tour buses run to most of the major attractions.

Time Out!

Moana Pool - indoor pool complex. Six pools, including a wave pool, spa pool two dive pools and a hydroslide, gym, sauna, sunbeds and outdoor recreation.
St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool - heated outdoor salt water swimming pool adjacent to beach. Open summer months. Edgar Sports Stadium - indoor facilities for tennis, netball, basketball, soccer, cricket and lots more. Reasonable rates.
Hoyts, Rialto, Metro and Academy Cinemas - art house cinema.
Fortune Theatre professional theatre.

More Information

For more detailed information or booking on any of Dunedin's attractions, facilities and transport options please contact the -

Dunedin Visitor Information Centre situated at 48 The Octagon
Ph 03 474 3300
Email: visitor.centre@dcc.govt.nz
Website www.dunedin.govt.com www.dunedinnz.com
Open Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5pm.
Saturday/Sunday and public holidays 8.45am - 5pm.