Dunedin Tours | Antipodes NZ Travel

About Dunedin & Otago Peninsula

Nestled on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Ōtepoti Dunedin is a city that dances to its own beat, embracing a harmonious blend of heritage and wildlife, with a distinctly quirky character.

Known as the “Edinburgh of the South,” Dunedin proudly wears its Scottish heritage on its sleeve. This charming city is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Stroll through the streets of Dunedin, and you’ll be greeted by grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture, with the iconic Dunedin Railway Station standing as a testament to its grand past.

The city’s beating heart is the vibrant Octagon, where locals and visitors converge to savour the eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, theatres, and boutiques. Our office is just around the corner, on Princes Street.

Ōtepoti Dunedin is surrounded by lush hills and offers stunning coastal vistas. Perched on the Otago Peninsula, the city is a gateway to spectacular wildlife encounters, from the quirky residents of Penguin Place to the majestic albatross soaring above Taiaroa Head.

Immerse yourself in the academic buzz of the University of Otago, where youthful energy infuses the city with vitality. In Ōtepoti Dunedin, every street whispers tales of history and, every local dish tells a story.

Explore Dunedin with us, where the warmth of its people matches the beauty of its landscapes.

Highlights in Ōtepoti Dunedin:

The Octagon: At the heart of the city lies The Octagon, a bustling hub of restaurants, cafes, and cultural events. It’s a perfect place to start your Dunedin exploration.

Dunedin Railway Station: Admire the stunning Flemish Renaissance architecture of this iconic railway station, the most photographic building in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Toitu Otago Settlers Museum: Immerse yourself in the history of Ōtepoti Dunedin at this interactive museum. Explore exhibits that trace the city’s development from its early Maori settlers to the present day.

Otago Museum: Immerse yourself in the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders. There is also a planetarium and a Tropical Garden!

Baldwin Street: Take on the challenge of climbing the steepest street in the world, a quirky attraction that’s sure to get your heart racing. We want a proof you made it to the top: send us a photo of your conquest!

Dunedin Botanic Gardens: the oldest of New Zealand! Take a leisurely stroll through the oldest botanical garden in New Zealand.

Olverston House: Step back in time with a visit to this meticulously preserved historic home that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy Dunedin family in the early 20th century.

University of Otago: Discover the historic and vibrant campus of the University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest university. The Clocktower Building is a prominent feature of the campus.

St Clair Esplanade & Saltwater Pool: Relax by the ocean just a 10-minute drive or bus ride from the city centre. There is nothing between this white sandy beach and the Antarctic! It has New Zealand’s most consistent surf break and a café-lined promenade to watch all the action. Don’t miss the chance to take a plunge in the scenic Saltwater Pool (heated, open from October to end of March).

Highlights on the Otago Peninsula:

Larnach Castle: Explore the only castle in New Zealand, set amidst stunning gardens with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Royal Albatross Centre: Witness the majestic Royal Albatross in their natural habitat on Taiaroa Head, the only mainland albatross breeding colony in the world.

Wildlife Encounters: Encounter Little Blue penguins, endangered Yellow-Eyed penguins, and a variety of bird species in their undisturbed coastal habitats.

Allans Beach: A picturesque and less crowded beach. Sandrine & Yoann got married on this beach!

Sandfly Bay: Enjoy a pristine and secluded beach, good fun down the sand dune not so much on the way back!

The Pyramids: Marvel at the unusual geological formations known as “The Pyramids” while enjoying a coastal walk.

Hooper’s Inlet: Explore the serene Hooper’s Inlet, a tidal lagoon providing a habitat for wading birds and offering tranquil water views.

Scenic Drives: The Otago Peninsula offers some of the most breathtaking coastal drives in New Zealand, with opportunities for biking, hiking and picnicking along the way.

Quarantine Island: Just a few minutes by water taxi (or hire a kayak!) from Portobello, this island was used as a Quarantine station in the 1860’s.