Things To Do
in Dunedin

Dunedin, New Zealand is a vibrant city known for its rich Scottish heritage and stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Nestled on the southeast coast of the South Island, it is surrounded by rolling hills and rugged coastline. The city is renowned for its wildlife, particularly in the Otago Peninsula, which is home to unique species like the royal albatross.

With a lively arts scene and a strong university presence, Dunedin offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, renowned for its architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Otago Museum to explore its extensive natural history collections, then take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Dunedin Botanic Garden.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant on George Street, followed by live music at a local bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Wildlife
morning
:

Visit the Otago Peninsula for a guided tour to see local wildlife, including sea lions and penguins.

afternoon
:

Stop by Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, and explore its lush gardens.

evening
:

Dine at a seafood restaurant near the waterfront and enjoy the sunset views.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$12
Cappuccino$4.50
🍽️Dinner for Two$70
🏨Budget Hotel Night$100
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife.
  • Rich cultural history and architecture.
  • Vibrant food and arts scene.
  • Variable weather can be unpredictable.
  • Some attractions may be seasonal.
  • Public transport may be limited outside the city center.
  • "Kia ora" - Hello
  • "Tēnā koa" - Please
  • "Ngā mihi" - Thank you
  • "Haere mai" - Welcome
  • "Ka kite" - See you

Places to Visit in Dunedin

Visit one of these nice places.

Baldwin Street

Known as the steepest street in the world, it offers a unique photographic opportunity.

Otago Peninsula

Stunning coastal views and wildlife make this an ideal spot for nature photography.

Dunedin Railway Station

An architectural gem, this station is perfect for capturing heritage and design.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dunedin

Dunedin's food scene is a delightful blend of local produce, seafood, and multicultural influences, offering something for every palate.

Dunedin Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hāngi

A traditional Māori dish made by cooking meat and vegetables in an underground oven.

Must-Try!

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruits, a must-try Kiwi treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Otago Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh, local produce and artisan foods.

Street Food at The Exchange

A variety of food trucks offering a range of cuisines, perfect for a casual meal.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dunedin experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while winter sees lows around 3°C (37°F) and highs up to 12°C (54°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, so bringing a waterproof jacket is advisable regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Kiwis value their natural environment; always follow local guidelines when hiking or visiting wildlife.

Punctuality

Being on time is important; plan to arrive at meetings and social events promptly.

Casual Interactions

New Zealanders are friendly and informal; a casual greeting is common.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dunedin is generally a safe city, but standard precautions should be taken. Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in nightlife areas, and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 111.

Tipping in Dunedin

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common practice.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available throughout the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September - November)

Mild weather with blooming gardens; perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer (December - February)

Warm temperatures and long days great for beach outings and festivals.

Autumn (March - May)

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; ideal for scenic drives.

Winter (June - August)

Cold with potential snowfall; great for cozy indoor activities and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Dunedin at Night

Dunedin boasts a lively nightlife scene, particularly around George Street, with plenty of bars, pubs, and live music venues. The atmosphere is relaxed, with many places offering local craft beers and cocktails. Popular spots often feature live music, making it a fun place to socialize and unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Dunedin

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tunnel Beach Track

A scenic coastal trail that leads to a secluded beach and impressive sea cliffs.

Silver Peaks Track

Offers stunning views of the Otago Peninsula and a variety of terrain for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Dunedin by plane.

Dunedin Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from the city center, Dunedin Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dunedin is quite walkable, particularly in the city center where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short distance. The terrain can be hilly, especially in areas like Baldwin Street, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Public transportation is also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With the University of Otago located here, a significant portion of the population consists of students, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Maori Community

The local Māori community plays a vital role in the cultural fabric of Dunedin, with various events and festivals celebrating their heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a major sport in Dunedin, with the Otago Rugby team having a passionate following.

Cricket

Cricket is also popular, especially during the summer months, with local matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dunedin is generally manageable, though rush hour can lead to congestion in the city center. Public transportation includes buses that connect various neighborhoods, making it convenient to get around without a car. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike paths in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dunedin.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants provide vegetarian and vegan menus, with fresh, local ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring safe options for those with restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Dunedin has a well-developed healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The main hospital, Dunedin Hospital, provides a range of services, including emergency care. Travelers should have travel insurance, as some medical services may not be covered for visitors.

Discover New Zealand

Read more in our New Zealand 2025 Travel Guide.

New Zealand Travel Guide