DUNEDIN
The Otago coast stretches from the Waitaki River to the mighty Clutha River, on the South Island's eastern coast. About halfway between is the city of Dunedin, the South Island's second largest city.
Dunedin was founded on the picks, harpoons and hard toil of goldminers, whalers and early Scottish settlers over 150 years ago. Much of Dunedin's early wealth and enterprise has left a tangible mark on the city today. Its name is the old Gaelic one for Edinburgh - appropriate since the city was established by Scottish Presbyterians.
The city is renowned for its proximity to incredible wildlife. Visits to see the world's rarest penguins, the world's only mainland breeding colony of the Royal albatross and rare New Zealand sea lions are all possible within a short drive of the city centre.
Dunedin is also memorable for its historical architecture. It is regarded to be one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Look for the massive stone Flemish Renaissance-style Dunedin Railway Station, the University clock-tower building and the Gothic Revival Dominican Priory. Dunedin even has an authentic castle - Larnach Castle was the grand home of an early politician. You might also want to visit Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential address.
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Activities on offer:
- The Big Day Out
PRICE FROM PP
Highlights of this fascinating Portobello Peninsula tour include the beautiful Glenfalloch country garden; the Yellow Eyed Penguin Conservation Reserve to view the worlds’ rarest penguin; a visit to the Royal Albatross Colony, the only mainland colony in the world for these giant seabirds; & Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. History, scenery and wildlife... it’s all here.
- Gardeners Delight
PRICE FROM PP
Diverse micro climates abound in Dunedin’s temperate coastal setting. Meet local garden enthusiasts and share gardening tips while touring their beautiful gardens. Alpine plants, New Zealand natives, roses, magnificent specimen trees, the list goes on. Country, town, public and private gardens are featured, all in magnificent settings . We finish the afternoon tour at the Dunedin Botanic Garden, giving you time to explore this important repository of plants.
Departs: 6.00am, 9.00am, 12.00pm & 2.00pm
Duration: 3 hours
- Classic Jaguar Heritage Tour
PRICE FROM PP
A personalised guided tour of Dunedin’s Heritage in a stylish classic Jaguar or Daimler limousine. Highlights include a visit to the Otago Settlers Museum; the 35 room Olveston House; heritage buildings including First Church, the University and the Railway station. Experience the world’s steepest street and finish with the Speight’s Brewery heritage tour.
* Based on a minimum of 2 passengers travelling.
- Full Day Trout Fishing
PRICE FROM PP
Otago has a magnificent untapped fishery, you hardly ever see another angler. Nymph or dry fly, the big brown and rainbow trout take them both. If you prefer spinning or harling methods, these are also available. Your internationally recognised fishing guide will put you into the best fishing conditions on the day. All equipment, transport, lunch and refreshments supplied. Cost based on minimum of 2 people.
* Price based on a minimum of 2 people.
- Golf Anyone?
PRICE FROM PP
Balmacewan is the oldest golf course in New Zealand. Played by Bob Charles, Arnold Palmer, Greg Turner and now you! This beautiful course is set on the hills above Dunedin’s harbour, an easy distance from the city. Play on your own or we can arrange for you to join club members for an entertaining round. Price includes transfers, green fees, clubs & cart hire.
- Guided Sea Kayaking
PRICE FROM PP
Settle into your two person kayak and paddle along the fascinating coastline of the Otago Peninsula to Taiaroa Heads. View New Zealand fur seals, albatross and sea birds from the unique perspective of the sea. Picture yourself cruising on mirror glass water amongst the wildlife of Otago’s coast.
Duration: 4 hours (approx)
- Taieri Gorge Railway
PRICE FROM PP
Your journey begins from Dunedin’s historic railway station. Experience spectacular scenery on a railway line that defies imagination. See grand and graceful viaducts, hand crafted stone bridges, walls and tunnels built by the determined rail pioneers of the Victorian age. A must for rail enthusiasts, photographers and anyone who enjoys the romance of rail travel.
Duration: 2:30pm - 6:30pm - 4 hours
- Time to Explore
Small car (manual) day
Midsize car (auto) day
Collect your rental car and take to the road. Dunedin is rich in heritage, wildlife and culture. There’s numerous activities available & maps and guides will be provided. Explore at your own pace. Insurance to be paid locally.
- An Evening at our Local
PRICE FROM PP
Your invitation to join us on a guided tour of Dunedin’s finest drinking establishments. Late afternoon we begin with the Speight's Brewery Heritage tour. Our guide will take us from 1876 to the present day. We see the beer batch brewed and sample the results. Next we visit the "Inch Bar", the smallest bar in New Zealand. Our final call is to The Rovers Return for some down home hospitality.
- The Catlins Experience
PRICE FROM PP
Travel to Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city to see Tuatara and Sub-Antarctic displays. Journey on to The Catlins to enjoy a day of wilderness, wildlife and walks, desolate beaches, lush native bush, stunning waterfalls and a petrified forest over 160 million years old. Picnic lunch included.
Duration: 7:30am - 8:30pm - 13 hours
