12 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Dunedin New Zealand

Dunedin is a New Zealand city full of contrasts and character. It’s an underrated gem on the South Island’s Otago region that all travellers should explore at least once in their lifetimes. Need more convincing? Then look no further than these 12 reasons for visiting.

The Beautiful Architecture

Dunedin is home to a trove of Edwardian- and Victorian-era buildings. A walk downtown is all it takes to get up close and personal to these impressive architectural wonders, which include New Zealand’s only castle, as well as the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, one of the most photographed landmarks—an impressive feat in such a picturesque country.

1. An Eco-friendly Setting

Natural Feature

Dunedin, New Zealand. 24th Feb, 2019. Northern Royal albatrosses are seen at the Royal Albatross Centre in Taiaroa Head, Dunedin, New Zealand, on Feb. 24, 2019. Every year over 40 pairs of Northern Royal albatrosses nest and breed at the worlds only main

Dunedin is home to the world’s only mainland-breeding albatross colony, the Royal Albatross Centre, where you’ll also find sea lions, fur seals and rare penguins. All these critters reside in the Otago Peninsula and are the reason Dunedin is aptly hailed as New Zealand’s Wildlife Capital. Eco-tourism is well accounted for on the city’s shores—so much so that renowned environmentalist Sir David Bellamy has been quoted as saying that Dunedin is the finest example of eco-friendliness in the world.

A Strong Scottish identity

Here’s a fun historic fact: The name “Dunedin” comes from the Gaelic word for “Edinburgh,” which is why Dunedin is commonly called the “Edinburgh of the South.” This in itself should give an indication of the loud and proud Scottish identity found here. True to the heritage, Dunedin’s whisky production is renowned as some of the best in the world.

3. Sports Matches in a Glasshouse

Stadium

Forsyth Barr Stadium is New Zealand’s largest indoor events arena, affectionately known as “the glasshouse” because of the transparent arched roof, which allows plenty of sunlight to seep in while still shielding visitors from less-than-ideal weather conditions. Rugby is the arena’s mainstay, and some of the games at the 2011 Rugby World Cup were played here. The stadium also doubles-up as a music venue and has received a number of international superstars since its inauguration.

Dynamic Events Lineup

A chocolate jaffa race on the world’s steepest street, performances from the city’s competitive Highland Pipe Band, the Midwinter Carnival—Dunedin’s events calendar has something for everyone, from quirky attractions to cool artistic showcases and plenty of cheerful community spirit.

Thriving Foodie Scene

Walk across Dunedin’s downtown Octagon and Esplanade, and you’ll be welcomed by the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans. Enter some of the city’s hidden alleyways, and you’ll stumble across an eclectic range of restaurants and cuisines. Whether you’re on the prowl for vegan dishes or you’re looking for something with a contemporary New Zealand flair, Dunedin’s café and restaurant scene is sure to satisfy all taste buds and cravings.

4. An Iconic Brewery

Brewery

Beer lovers won’t want to miss a visit to Dunedin’s Speights Brewery. This iconic fixture was established by James Speight, Charles Greenslade and William Dawson in 1876 and is still in operation today. Visitors can take 90-minute guided tours, which cover the history of the local brewing industry and a sampling session. There’s an ale house next door for those who worked up an appetite during the expedition.

5. The Famous Otago Farmers Market

Farmers' Market, Market, Contemporary, Street Food

Renowned as one of the busiest farmers’ markets in Australasia, the Otago Farmers Market livens up the Dunedin Railway Station every Saturday, rain or shine. Fresh produce, locally produced honey and cheese, preserves, homemade baked goods, and takeaway food stalls with just about every kind of cuisine imaginable attract the droves to this awesome community event. The market runs year-round from 8am-12:30pm.

The Stunning Southern Lights

On a cold, clear night, Dunedin’s skies will let you in on a very bright secret. The Southern Lights, also known as aurora australis, are only visible around some places in Antarctica and, as luck would have it, in certain corners of the South Island. To catch a glimpse of this incredible phenomenon, head to a south-facing beach in Dunedin, such as St Clair beach, Sandfly Bay and Hoopers Inlet.

6. A Remarkable Museum

Museum

The Otago Museum is filled with interesting finds, many of which are perfect for those travelling with children. The Nature Gallery has a remarkable collection of butterflies and is quite a popular attraction for all ages. Other highlights include a Perpetual Garden Planetarium, the laser-activated Beautiful Science exhibition, and the weird and wonderful creatures that lie in the Animal Attic displays.

7. A Stunning Botanic Garden

Botanical Garden

Head to the edge of North East Valley for peace, quiet and plenty of greenery. Discover the horticultural treasures hiding in Dunedin Botanic Garden, including the beautiful rhododendron trees, luscious herb garden, an aviary and a winter garden. There are also hidden picnic spots scattered throughout and an on-site café.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.