Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula
Planning a trip to the South Island? Don’t skip Dunedin or the Otago Peninsula!
This underrated corner of New Zealand is packed with coastal beauty, wild wildlife encounters, epic walks, moody beaches and quirky little towns you’ve probably never heard of (but will 100% remember).
Dunedin has rugged coastline, albatross soaring overhead, sea lions lazing on beaches, waterfalls deep in the forest and delicious food spots we always return to. Whether you're wanting to see penguins, photograph historic buildings or hike through native bush, this part of New Zealand is one you need to explore and honestly the one region in the whole of New Zealand that surprised us the most - in a really good way!
We’ve spent months exploring this southern slice of Aotearoa and this guide pulls together our favourite spots, hidden gems and must-do experiences across Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Let’s get into it!
This underrated corner of New Zealand is packed with coastal beauty, wild wildlife encounters, epic walks, moody beaches and quirky little towns you’ve probably never heard of (but will 100% remember).
Dunedin has rugged coastline, albatross soaring overhead, sea lions lazing on beaches, waterfalls deep in the forest and delicious food spots we always return to. Whether you're wanting to see penguins, photograph historic buildings or hike through native bush, this part of New Zealand is one you need to explore and honestly the one region in the whole of New Zealand that surprised us the most - in a really good way!
We’ve spent months exploring this southern slice of Aotearoa and this guide pulls together our favourite spots, hidden gems and must-do experiences across Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Let’s get into it!
If you see “blog coming soon,” don’t worry—it won’t be for much longer! We’re working hard behind the scenes to finish everything in the next few weeks. We’re also adding heaps more guides, updating older blogs, and making it SO much easier for you to plan your trip around New Zealand!
HIGHCLIFF TRACK
A breathtaking track that winds along high above Dunedin's rugged coastline and takes you down to Boulder Beach.
Blog coming soon! 
NICOLS FALLS TRACK
Tucked away in Dunedin’s greenery is Nicols Creek - a peaceful spot with a beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail.
Blog coming soon! |
SANDYMOUNT LOOKOUT TRACK
Rugged cliffs, endless ocean and white beaches far below - this lookout has one of the best views in New Zealand!
Blog coming soon! 
BLACKHEAD BEACH
Low tide reveals stunning basalt columns and Roman Baths and is a common place for seals and sea lions to hang out.
Blog coming soon! |
MT CARGILL LOOKOUT
One of the best spots in Dunedin for panoramic views out to the Pacific Ocean and along the Otago Peninsula.
Blog coming soon! 
ORGAN PIPES TRACK
The Organ Pipes Track is a short but rewarding hike featuring dramatic basalt columns and incredible views across Dunedin.
Blog coming soon! |
SIGNAL HILL LOOKOUT
Perched above Dunedin, Signal Hill Lookout offers panoramic views of the city, Otago Harbour, and the surrounding landscape.
Blog coming soon! |
ROSS CREEK WATERFALL
Downhill through lush New Zealand bush is a viewing platform overlooking the beautiful Ross Creek Waterfall.
Blog coming soon! |
HEYWARD POINT TRACK
See hidden beaches, INCREDIBLE coastal views along this coastline track. You may spot albatross and seals out at the point.
Blog coming soon! |
ARAMOANA MOLE
The Aramoana Mole has it all - seals sunbathing, ships navigating the harbor and stunning views across to Taiaroa Head.
Blog coming soon! |
SOLDIER'S MEMORIAL TRACK
Take in breathtaking views of Otago Harbour and the Pacific coastline, where a statue honors Otago Peninsula's fallen soldiers.
Blog coming soon! |
ALLAN'S BEACH
This beach has it all - white sand, blue water and beautiful rugged coastline. It's a popular spot for sea lions and seals too!
Blog coming soon! |
KEYHOLE ROCK
Wander past the iconic Keyhole Rock and keep an eye out for seals, sea lions and even the rare yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitat!
Blog coming soon! |
TUHURA OTAGO MUSEUM
Step into a world of science that has over 40 fun and interactive displays plus a tropical forest full of butterflies flying around you!
Blog coming soon! |
DOCTORS POINT SEA CAVES
Explore the sea caves at Doctors Point, where you can walk through natural arches and hidden passages.
Blog coming soon! |
OTAGO SETTLERS MUSEUM
Step back in time at this museum where interactive exhibits, old-school transport and local stories bring Dunedin’s history to life.
Blog coming soon! |
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DUNEDIN (2025)
Dunedin has incredible hikes, stunning beaches, rare wildlife, historic buildings, a castle and world-class museums
Blog coming soon! |
LAN YUAN CHINESE GARDEN
Discover tranquility at Dunedin's Lan Yuan Chinese Garden - a serene oasis of ponds, pavilions and stunning authentic architecture.
Blog coming soon! |
Experience New Zealand's only castle where you can appreciate the history and architecture & enjoy a delicious high the Ballroom. |
THINGS TO DO IN PORT CHALMERS: BEST WALKS, VIEWPOINTS AND CAFES NEAR DUNEDIN
Explore Port Chalmers with breathtaking lookouts, charming heritage buildings, and a vibrant waterfront.
Blog coming soon! |
DUNEDIN RAILWAY STATION
Step into an architectural masterpiece with stunning details, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past and transport heritage. Blog coming soon! |
STEP BACK IN TIME: DUNEDIN'S MOST ICONIC HISTORIC BUILDINGS
From Gothic cathedrals to iconic landmarks, every building in Dunedin has a story to tell about its rich and vibrant past.
Blog coming soon! |
DUNEDIN BOTANIC GARDEN
This is a haven with beautifully themed gardens and plenty of spots to relax across 33 hectares in NZ's oldest botanic garden. Blog coming soon! |
BALDWIN STREET: THE WORLD'S STEEPEST STREET
Take on the challenge of walking up the world's steepest street, Baldwin Street, and be rewarded with views and a great workout!
Blog coming soon! |
TOP THINGS TO DO AT TAIAROA HEAD - A MUST VISIT SPOT IN DUNEDIN
Discover the wildlife and dramatic coastal views at Taiaroa Head, home to the world’s only mainland royal albatross colony. Blog coming soon! |
THINGS TO DO IN DUNEDIN CITY - WHAT TO SEE, DO & EXPLORE
From street art to steep streets, - Dunedin City has a little bit of everything. Here’s how to make the most of your time in the city. Blog coming soon! |
WHAT TO DO ON THE OTAGO PENINSULA: UNCOVER THE BEST OF DUNEDIN'S STUNNING COASTLINE
Wildlife, sea cliffs, quiet beaches and amazing views—here’s how to experience the very best of the Otago Peninsula.
Blog coming soon! |
14 STUNNING LOOKOUTS IN DUNEDIN: SCENIC VIEWS YOU CAN'T MISS
From epic coastal cliffs to panoramic city views—these 14 Dunedin lookouts include a mix of easy drive-ups and rewarding hike-to spots.
Blog coming soon!
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THINGS TO DO IN DUNEDIN WITH KIDS: 20 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES
Interactive museums, swimming beaches, easy hikes, waterfalls and wildlife - Dunedin is packed with family adventures, rain or shine.
Blog coming soon! |
8 BEACHES TO VISIT AROUND DUNEDIN: HIDDEN GEMS AND POPULAR SPOTS
From sea lions to rock pools, swim spots, and epic coastal formations—these 8 Dunedin beaches have a bit of everything.
Blog coming soon! |
12 STUNNING DUNEDIN HIKES: COASTAL VIEWS, FOREST TRAILS & WATERFALLS
These trails offer something for every kind of explorer—whether you're after a short scenic stroll or a full-on leg burner with epic views.
Blog coming soon! |
WHERE TO SEE WILDLIFE IN DUNEDIN: SEALS, SEA LIONS, PENGUINS & MORE
From penguins waddling ashore at dusk to sea lions lounging on the sand, these are the best places to spot Dunedin's wildlife.
Blog coming soon! |
TOP THINGS TO DO ON THE OTAGO PENINSULA
Breathtaking views, white beaches with blue water, incredible wildlife and NZ's only castle - the Otago Peninsula is full of surprises!
Blog coming soon! |
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