Eights Things to See and Do in Dunedin

As the second largest city in New Zealand’s South Island, Dunedin enjoys a proud reputation. Dunedin is renowned for its railways which provided the main mode of transportation for its inhabitants when the city was still young. Dunedin is also home to the University of Otago, the oldest university in New Zealand. If you are unsure what to see while you are in Dunedin, check out the suggestions below…

Eight things to see and do in Dunedin

1) Cadbury World

Cadbury World in Dunedin is one of the country’s most famous exports and sells chocolate both locally and abroad. The factory offers a daily tour between 9am and 3:30pm. The tour takes about 60 minutes and guests get to see how chocolate is created. Best of all you can taste chocolate samples along the way. Adult tickets cost $20 each.

2) The Octagon

This is the famous city centre and the one sight that you are bound to see if you visit Dunedin. The Octagon is surrounded by many businesses and eateries, making it a vibrant meeting place that is great for people-watching. This is also where you will get to see the famous Robert Burns statue which is over 100 years old.

3) Larnach Castle

For a taste of medieval history, Larnach Castle is a great place to visit. This is considered the only castle in New Zealand and is located on Camp Road, on the Otago Peninsula. The castle was built in 1871 by William Larnach, a local merchant and politician. It boasts great panoramic views of the ocean, not to mention a mysterious and tragic history which adds to its appeal.

4) Street art trail

Dunedin has a number of attractions that are accessible to the public for free. A great example is the Dunedin Street Art Trail which allows guests to explore the city’s creative hubs on foot. Maps of the trail are available online. Today, the trail is composed of 18 walls and takes a leisurely hour to complete.

5) Botanical Gardens

The Dunedin Botanical Gardens occupies 50 hectares of land in the north end of the city and is home to an aviary and themed gardens. The beautiful Botanical Gardens is a great place to enjoy peace and quiet in the city in between visits to the museums and other historical points of interest.

6) Baldwin Street

Baldwin Street is the steepest street in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records and is definitely worth a visit. If you are fit you can try cycling up the street. Otherwise, park your car at the bottom and walk up.

7) Road trips around the Peninsula

For those who want to explore the entire city and nearby areas, road tripping is a great activity – especially since there are many motor lodges around Dunedin. Visitors can explore the Taeiri Gorge Railway and head to the Royal Albatross Centre before visiting the Yellow Eye Penguin Conservation Reserve.

8) Eat the fish and chips at Good Oil

Good Oil is a Dunedin landmark that is known for its great coffee and fish and chips. Located down George Street you are offered a full a la carte brunch menu and a great collection of local wines and ales. The local favourite is kumara chips.

For a truly unique experience in Dunedin, travellers can make their way through Dunedin’s top attractions, stopping along the way to eat, explore and sleep. If you are visiting Dunedin you can always enjoy the warm and friendly accommodation offered by Alcala Motor Lodge as you jump from one destination to another. Visit www.alcalamotorlodge.co.nz to secure your booking online.