George Street

This thoroughfare is the main street of Dunedin, home of local and international fashion houses, packed with shopping opportunities and within easy reach of most local historical monuments.

Larnach Castle

Discover New Zealand’s only authentic castle, built in 1811 by merchant baron William Larnach for his beloved wife Eliza. This monument, still privately owned and cared for, features magnificent architecture and a unique collection of antiques and art works, as well as spectacular views from its tower and beautiful gardens.

The Octagon

Situated in George Square, this statue of Scotland’s most famous poet was built in 1887 and is a fitting tribute to Dunedin’s heritage from the old country, from which so many of its settlers came.

Signal Hill

At the summit of Signal Hill scenic reserve is a lookout, and a monument comprising two large bronze statues that commemorate 100 years of British sovereignty (1840 - 1940) here. Dunedin's Scottish ties are recognised by the fact that a piece of rock from Edinburgh Castle is incorporated into the lookout.

Baldwin Street

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this is the steepest road in the world, so steep that two-thirds of the road had to be surfaced in concrete. It is also the sight of the annual Gutbuster challenge, where people race up the road in the shortest time possible; definitely a test of physical fitness.

Glenfalloch Gardens

Situated in a coastal valley overlooking the harbour, Glenfalloch was developed as a private garden for Phillip Barling in 1917, but was bought by the Otago Public Trust in 1968 to ensure public access. Now visitors can enjoy wandering through the beautifully landscaped park, complete with native bird life numerous banks of blossoming flowers and the gentle gurgle of Russell Creek.

Royal Albatross Centre

Come to Taiaroa head on the Otago Peninsula to marvel at the world’s only mainland colony of royal albatrosses, birds who have long been the subject of reverence and superstition by ancient sailors. Also on display at the centre is the magnificent poutokomanawa, which depicts the ancestors of the local Maori tribes. Nearby is the yellow-eyed penguin colony, which is also worth the wait.

Taieri Gorge Railway

This railway journey takes the visitor through Dunedin’s scenic surrounding landscape while a recorded lecture imparts knowledge of the city’s heritage. This is a unique way of exploring Dunedin’s history and countryside at the same time.

Speight’s Brewery

Wander around Dunedin’s only brewery and learn all about the art and history of beer making from Babylonian times all the way to its continued development in modern New Zealand, before sampling some of its golden products at the Brewery Bar.

The Fletcher House

New Zealand’s only fully restored and furnished residence from the Edwardian era beckons the visitor with a little historical detour to get acquainted with the life and living of New Zealanders from a bygone era.

Olveston

For a more intimate exploration of bygone days, the Olveston house is a fine stop. Offering a tantalising glimpse of a world long since disappeared, this beautifully preserved house is filled with late 19th century treasures from around the world.

Mount Cargill

Some of the most spectacular views of Dunedin and the entire Otago Peninsula can be taken in from the top of Mount Cargill. The summit is accessible by car, or by foot for the more determined.

Oamaru

A bustling township is worth a daytrip from Dunedin, with its historic monuments, numerous traditional craft workshops and the beautiful surrounding landscape.

The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

The charming blue penguins, smallest in the world, make their home in the Oamaru harbour quarry, which has been designated a protected habitat. There are over 100 breeding pairs, who have long since become accustomed to the presence of curious tourists.

Moeraki Boulders

Located near the Oamaru township, the boulders appear like huge marbles scattered along the coast. Though once carted off to serve as garden ornaments, they are now protected and the subject of numerous popular tours.

The Catlins

This area is sometimes called New Zealand’s best kept secret, and if you’re looking for unspoilt scenery, pristine beaches, ancient forests and other natural wonders, this region is hard to beat.