Close encounters with wildlife and history
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| Five kilometre stretch of surf beach is perfect for a long walk in Dunedin. |
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The Otago coast stretches from the Waitaki River north of Oamaru to the mighty Clutha River south of Dunedin.
The Waitaki district is a place of haunting natural beauty, complemented by Oamaru’s historic whitestone architecture. Travellers come to see the diverse wildlife, idyllic fishing villages and rolling green pastures.
Dunedin's dramatic hills surround a long, natural harbour, which attracted Maori settlers to the site over four centuries ago. More recently the area was settled by whalers, gold miners and migrants from Scotland and China. Memorable for its historical architecture, Dunedin is one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. On the doorstep of the city, you can find incredible wildlife - the world's rarest penguins, a mainland albatross colony, fur seals and sea lions.
The Clutha district, gateway to the deep south, provides rural experiences, superb fishing and wildlife adventures along majestic sweeping beaches.
Key Features
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Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula is home to rare and unusual coastal wildlife. Discover hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins), little blue penguins and the world’s only mainland albatross colony. Sea lions and fur seals also live here. | |
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Heritage architecture
The Otago gold rush left a legacy of ornate Victorian and Edwardian buildings, regarded as the best collection in the Southern Hemisphere. The Flemish Renaissance-styled railway station is one outstanding example. | |
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The University of Otago
Founded in 1869, New Zealand’s oldest and largest university gives Dunedin its reputation as a centre of learning. The energy and creativity of the vibrant student culture adds fun to daily life in Dunedin. |
Key Tips
- Dunedin airport receives trans-Tasman flights from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and the Gold Coast. Daily domestic flights arrive from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and other provincial centres.
- Dunedin is located on State Highway 1 approximately 400kms south of Christchurch, 350kms east of Queenstown and 250kms north of Invercargill.
- Dunedin is the northern entry/exit point for the Southern Scenic Route, a journey around the spectacular south eastern corner of the South Island.
- To view rare wildlife, you can drive from central Dunedin to the tip of the Otago Peninsula in one hour.
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www.newzealand.com Pages
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Dunedin Airport
Find out about Dunedin Airport's facilities and transport options to the city.
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Driving
This three day, deep south drive to Milford Sound through the Dunedin region refreshes body and soul with its unforgettable landscapes.
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Backpacking
New Zealand is ideal for travelling in the backpacking style. And more and more people are now choosing this kind of holiday.
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Other Sites
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Winter in Coastal Otago
Enjoy the thrills of high country skiing and snowboarding at its best. Ohau snowfield, part of the Main Divide, is endowed with reliable snowfall, sunshine, friendly people and uncrowded slopes. You can stay at Lake Ohau lodge, a 75-unit lodge on the shores of Lake Ohau offering stunning views of Mt Cook and Ben Ohau range.
DUNEDIN-COASTAL OTAGO
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Population: 158,800
Area: 826km2
Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
Winter promises the occasional dusting of snow around the hills. Fresh winter vegetables and hearty rural treats can be sourced from the Otago Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. Winter Solstice Celebrations set the Octagon aglow with lantern parades and the Cadbury Chocolate Carnival serves up a delicious week of celebration.
Winter wouldn’t be winter without rugby. Enjoy the atmosphere of ‘The Terraces’ watching a game at legendary Carisbrook.
If you’re driving up to the Moeraki Boulders, continue north to see historic Totara Estate.
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