Weekend Guide to Dunedin
Hello again everyone, welcome to my Weekend Guide to Dunedin! I’m back for your weekly update of epic things to do in New Zealand. I promise this one won’t disappoint!
Planning on travelling to the bottom of the South Island, well you’re probably considering going to Dunedin right? A city comprising the world's steepest street, chocolate and beer production, stunning beaches and beautiful architecture.
Before I get into it, I am often asked what the difference between all these cities in New Zealand actually are. Well, Auckland for one is a very large metropolitan city with over 1.5 million individuals residing there. Dunedin on the other hand, is a cosmopolitan city with approximately 135,000 individuals calling it home.
Dunedin is located on the head of the Otago Peninsula, and frankly in my opinion one of New Zealand’s coldest towns. Walking around you will immediately notice the architecture, culture and life is heavily influenced by a Scottish and Maori heritage. Truly a gorgeous city to explore, there are plenty of opportunities to do things to suit the whole family!
If you are considering visiting Dunedin at some point I’d suggest 2-4 days to fully explore the city and surroundings. Although one of the world's largest cities by geographical size, getting around is much quicker compared to travelling in other metropolitan cities around New Zealand. I’m a big believer in doing everything at once and having very busy days when I travel so I thought I’d share a “Weekend Guide to Dunedin”.
Weekend Guide to Dunedin
Friday - Sunday
For your own peace of mind, arrive on Friday so that you have time to rest and get amongst the fun for this weekend. Having this little bit of extra time will definitely help in making your trip feel less rushed!
Depending on when you arrive on Friday, I’d suggest you consider checking into your accommodation of choice. I’ve linked a few below that I’d suggest looking into for your next stay. Below are the best hotels in Dunedin.
Photo by Sulthan Auliya on Unsplash
Stay:
Eat!
Cafes
If you’re anything like me you’ll be excited for a beautiful brunch stop before midday! I’ve included some of my favorite spots below that I definitely recommend that you check out while you are there!
Apart from great coffee, these options share some fantastic food options perfect for all. I’d definitely recommend the avocado on toast at Starfish Cafe!
Restaurants:
Again, there are several options in regard to finding the perfect spot for dinner. You may see something you like while you are walking out and about but if you are looking at booking or organizing a nice dinner out the following list are my recommendations!
Bacchus Wine Bar and Restaurant
For those long nights out or the days you just don’t want to go out there are more than enough supermarkets around as well as Uber Eats you could treat yourself to! (Imagery credit below from https://www.etrusco.co.nz/)
Do:
Larnach Castle
Welcome to New Zealand’s ONLY castle! Crazy to believe right? Other than being the only castle on the land, this attraction is best known for its incredibly stunning and well-manicured grounds that surround an ornate and historic castle. The perfect spot to bring the whole family. You can come for a few hours to explore the castle and garden or you can book accommodation and stay! Moreover, being 13km out from the city center with public transport opportunities, travel is easy!
Photo by Amanda Hollis on Unsplash
St Clair Beach
St Clair is a stunning seaside town located just mere minutes from the city center! This outrageously gorgeous beach brings back memories of Bondi Beach, the long sweeping coastline is massaged by perfect waves for surfing! After you’ve explored, surfed or had a photoshoot here (how could you not), head across the road to some of the cafes/restaurants for a drink and a bite to eat!
Photo by Cameron Witney on Unsplash
Octagon
Located in the city center the Octagon is a complete no-brainer if you are in Dunedin. Aptly named from its “octagon” shaped area of shops, you can find various options of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore from!
Photo by Arthur Franklin on Unsplash
Saturday Market
Every Saturday by the rail station you can treat yourself to some local produce, flowers, delicious coffee and breakfast at the local farmers market! A lovely place for a morning stroll, get amongst the local culture and start your day of well!
Penguins
Otago is the best place in New Zealand to check out the cutest little penguins that call the peninsula home all year round! Here you’ll find little blue penguins and very rare yellow-eyed penguins playing by the shore. There are plenty of operators that can take you on day tours or guides if you’d like to learn more! Check out a few linked here:
Botanic Gardens (seasonal)
The Botanic Gardens in Dunedin City Center are some of the most gorgeously arranged varieties of blooms, colors, and patterns within New Zealand! A stunning place to spend a few hours enjoying the sun, scents, and good company. Be aware that the best time to go to the gardens will be summer/spring (between late September and early February)
Photo by April Pethybridge on Unsplash
Royal Albatross Center
The Royal Albatross Center based in Dunedin is a large wildlife sanctuary where you are free to visit, enjoy tours and learn about the local wildlife. Home to the Royal Albatross the world’s largest sea birds and the world's only colony of mainland breeding birds.
Photo by Carl Newton on Unsplash
Drive to nearby places
There are a variety of nearby towns, cities, and attractions to visit in the Otago region. Check out my South Island Road Trip guide HERE for a full guide!
Below are some other posts you can check out for NZ and other travel inspiration!
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