Tucked away in the most southern corner of New Zealand, Dunedin may often be overshadowed by its popular (and arguably saturated) neighbour, Queenstown.
Described as ‘the Edinburgh of the South’, New Zealand’s best kept secret is quickly moving to top of travel bucket lists. Here, we explore five reasons why Dunedin is becoming increasingly popular with travellers:
1. A street art hub of the Southern Hemisphere
Not many people know that Dunedin is a southern hemisphere hub for local and international street art. With the right set of eyes you can find a countless amount of creations plastered across the city’s walls such as the Witching Hour located on 58 Vogel Street or Riding Dreams which is found on 365 Princes Street. The first artwork is by local legend Maggie Covell and represents the struggle between good and evil. The latter is a surrealist piece by Italy’s Pixel Pancho, which examines the issues we face in the technological world. The Small City Big Walls tour lasts two hours and goes at a moderate pace on mostly flat ground through the central city.
2. Some of the best stargazing
The area has some of New Zealand’s best stargazing and with a guide from Horizon Tours, you can learn how Māori culture viewed the night sky, through sharing stories and waiata (songs). While under moonlight, you will hear about the legend of the rising of the region’s second largest star, Atutahi, which is the first born child of Ranginui (The Sky Father) and a sign that Winter was on its way. This quiet coastal area is also one of the best places to view the Aurora Australis Southern Lights.
3. Home to iconic Kiwi beer
Often referred to as the birthplace of New Zealand beer, Speights Brewery offers interactive tours that provide an in depth insight into its 141 year history. Travellers will learn about the ingredients and brewing process, while being guided through all eight floors. There is an extensive tasting session, where you can sample various products, while hearing the incredible stories about the heritage, history and tradition of this iconic Dunedin landmark.
4. Live like Kings and Queens on any budget
Larnach Castle, one of New Zealand’s most underrated locations, has a rich history dating back to 1871. It offers stunning rural scenery and accommodation just 20-minutes drive from Dunedin city centre. The Castle is surrounded by seven acres of maintained specialised gardens, including the Alice Lawn which was inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. By offering budget, four star and five star rooms, the castle is accessible to everyone.
5. Get close to unique wildlife
Feel the wind on your back when exploring Nature’s Wonders, a working farm, right on the Otago Peninsula. Argos are multi terrain vehicle that have a roof but no windows, which gives visitors a 360 degree view of this private-peninsula-based-farm. You will feel like a farmer when you’re driven through mud, water, steep paths and seemingly impassable objects. An advantage of an argo is it will get you up close and personal with New Zealand Fur Seals, Yellow-Eyed Penguins, Little Blue Penguins, Cormorants and more.
You might also like:
12 hidden foodie gems you didn’t know existed in Dunedin
The New Zealand secret destination you didn’t know you should visit
Why these endangered penguins are wearing baby onesies
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
