Location: Dunedin
Top Things to do in Dunedin
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Top 10 Cultural Tours in Dunedin, South Island
Rare yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and the world's only mainland albatross colony share residence in Dunedin, New Zealand's oldest city. When you're not watching wildlife, this South Island Otago Coast town also boasts impressive historic architecture from its days as a gold-rush mecca. Visit the 1906 Flemish Renaissance railway station or the country's largest center of higher learning, which resembles Glasgow University, thanks to the area's early Scottish settlers.
Restaurants in Dunedin
1. Culture in Context Tour on the Otago Peninsula with lunch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Discover the beauty and rich history of Muaupoko, the Otago Peninsula, through a unique cultural lens.Take a journey with us to uncover how the early Māori and European settlers to this land lived and thrived. Māori, are of Polynesian decent, a sea faring people who travelled to Aotearoa, New Zealand, many centuries ago. Take a half day journey with Horizon Tours and let our guides tell you stories of those voyages, and how these resourceful settlers thrived in new lands surrounded by unfamiliar flora and fauna.Explore the Otago Peninsula and discover some of the iconic sights of interest as we drive along scenic coastal roads. Learn how early Māori lived, their customs and traditions. Hear how they interacted with European settlers, and how the two cultures created the landscape you see today.
Inclusions: Tea and Coffee, Water, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Antipasto lunch included (catered to dietary requirements)
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Tina3337
This was a great tour, Lyndon is an awesome guide, super knowledgeable, friendly and really looked after us. We saw sea lions, fur seal and so many little blue penguins! Highly recommend this tour :)
2. Dunedin Onshore Cruise Group Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Dunedin Onshore Cruise Tours for your small group of up to six or 11 by advance booking subject to availability. Heritage and Wildlife abounds and enjoy a personal and fun tour with you local chauffeur/guide. Dunedin welcomes you to the delightful Port Chalmers and the many unique aspects on your special day tour. Whatever your interests surround yourself with the Scottish feel of this region. Your Chauffeur will take you on a historical journey of beautiful landscapes, stunning Port Chalmers high top views and many options to choose from, including Larnach Castle, the only registered castle in New Zealand. Otago Peninsula with sightings of the Albatross soaring above the cliffs and protecting their nesting ground. History of the lighthouse and the inhabitants of long ago. Travel the inland route for scenic options of the Pacific Ocean views and the countryside. Returning along the Coastal seaside route as you return from the Peninsula.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Professional guide, Port pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks, Lunch
Reviewed By 676nataliew
This tour was fantastic! Our guide was so informative, guide was approachable and taught us lots about wine! She has a fantastic connection with the wineries and with this we received special treatment and we went to the best locations. Such an enjoyable day and have great memories!
3. Peninsula Wildlife Tour with Lunch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 31 reviews
See spectacular marine wildlife, learn from a conservation expert, discover intriguing Māori history, and explore the geological and biological diversity of our Otago Peninsula. Join us to discover some of the iconic Otago Peninsula's wildlife residents; albatross, penguins, seals and sea lions, all call this place home. This tour is also an excellent introduction to sites of significance to Maori, a fascinating culture that is often overshadowed by Dunedin’s more recent European history. Tour highlights include a boat cruise around Pukekura/Taiaroa Head and other wildlife viewing sites. Forest walk and delicious lunch.
Inclusions: Water, Tea or Coffee, Antipasto lunch included (catered to dietary requirements), Air-conditioned vehicle, Accommodation pick up/drop off is available
Exclusions: While we endeavour to show you many animals along the way, they might have different ideas! We cannot guarantee seeing all species.
Reviewed By Tina3337
This was a great tour, Lyndon is an awesome guide, super knowledgeable, friendly and really looked after us. We saw sea lions, fur seal and so many little blue penguins! Highly recommend this tour :)
4. Heritage Highlights Walk
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Dunedin is a great wee city and is best explored on foot. New Zealand's largest city 1865-1889, and a university town, Dunedin boasts some picturesque streetscapes and standout Victorian buildings. This small-group tour is fun and interesting - and a great introduction to Dunedin. See the reviews of our walks!
Inclusions: In-person guide
Exclusions:
Reviewed By patrickkoellner
I did the two-hour tour - which is the longest and most comprehensive one available - with tour guide Athol in late February 2020. Athol is a fantastic guide who knows the city inside out. The tour covered both the historic part in the city centre and they newly developed wharehouse district a bit - but not much - further. I certainly learned a lot about Dunedin's city evolving city landscape. Dunedin has arguably the most character among cities in NZ and exploring its past and present is extremely worthwhile. Athol's tour is a great starting point for doing so. It can also be recommended for people having lived in the city for a while.
5. Iconic Dunedin City Highlights Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Discover top attractions and iconic sites around the city of Dunedin on this half-day city tour. Explore Dunedin with a guide and take in key sites of interest such as the World famous Baldwin Street, University of Otago, Olveston Homestead gardens and Dunedin's Grand Railway Station. Awesome lookouts over Otago Harbour and from Signal Hill. Visit the Octagon (city centre) for some shopping and a bite to eat. All transport to and from the cruise ship wharf is included. Enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour, limited to 20 people. Daily departures are available for cruise passengers and city-based passengers.
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Light refreshments, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Professional guide, Bottled water
Exclusions: Lunch
Reviewed By Truejaffa
We would thoroughly recommend using Iconic Tours. And here’s why. Last week we visited the Catlins with Kim from Iconic Tours. The Catlins had been on our bucket list for some time but we had never managed to get there until now. We had heard accommodation and cafes were in short supply down there and we wanted to ensure we didn't miss any highlights so we opted for a tour instead of self drive. Kim collected us from the airport in a comfortable air conditioned sedan and drove us into the city, pointing out places of interest as we went. He did a brief tour around the city centre, took us up to our accommodation in Roslyn and waited while we dropped our bags off, then dropped us back at the i- site. We spent the next 3 days exploring Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula which we really enjoyed. But the best was yet to come! Kim is a great driver and guide and he packed a lot into our 2 day Catlins tour, while never rushing or hurrying us. He is knowledgeable and articulate with a keen interest in the history of places and the local flora and fauna. As he was doing the driving we were able to sit back and relax and enjoy the scenery, and no need to worry if we had missed a turn off or if the road or a café were closed – he had all the local knowledge to adapt if necessary. But here’s a tip- allow 3 days , there is so much to see and do. He drove us down unsealed roads that we wouldn't have ventured on and the sights at the end were remarkable. We had walked the length of Cannibal Bay, admiring the sea lions basking on the sand and were about to head back to the car when Kim spotted a dark shape in the water . It was a huge sea lion swimming into the shallows, then walking up the beach and flipping onto the sand. Awesome. That was a highlight for us as was standing on the beach at Curio Bay in the dusk watching a lone Hoiho penguin make his way up the beach towards his nest. Our breakfast at the Tumu Toka Curio Bay cafe and our dinner at the Niagara Falls restaurant were culinary standouts. Superb service and delicious food. When we arrived at our beach front unit Kim brought in a platter of cheese and crackers and a bottle of bubbly to share with us as we reviewed the day. We then had a short rest, dinner then another visit to the beach to wait for the arrival of the little Hoiho, the rarest penguin in the world. Covered in the price of our tour was our accommodation at Curio Bay (which was a comfortable studio unit right on the beach) plus morning teas, lunches and a cooked breakfast and museum entries etc, plus of course a driver/guide. Kim managed to pack in a tremendous amount of things each day from walks through native bush to see amazing waterfalls, seeing the petrified forest and visits to museums to watching fur seals on the rocks. Kim also does Stewart Island tours and we've got that in mind for the future as we couldn't imagine a better tour guide. And the Catlins? Pristine, uncrowded, an awesome experience.’
6. Southern Skies Stargazing Tour in Dunedin
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 47 reviews
The Southern Skies Star Gazing tour takes you out to the Otago Peninsula on a journey of discovery to learn about the unique celestial features of the Southern sky, while also sharing stories and waiata (songs) about how Māori viewed the night sky. The Otago peninsula coastline provides a clear and breath-taking view of the night sky, along with a magical backdrop of coastal bird calls echoing across Hoopers inlet. In the right conditions, this rural coastal area is a prime viewing location for the Southern Lights, Aurora Australis Enjoy Māori manaakitanga (hospitality) with a light supper and hot beverage. Sit back, relax and be enchanted. Departs Dunedin 8PM (October to March) and 6PM (April to September)
Inclusions: Snacks, Light refreshments, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Coffee and/or Tea, Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Tina3337
This was a great tour, Lyndon is an awesome guide, super knowledgeable, friendly and really looked after us. We saw sea lions, fur seal and so many little blue penguins! Highly recommend this tour :)
7. Iconic Shore Excursion: Dunedin City Highlights Tour
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 68 reviews
Discover top attractions and iconic sites around the city of Dunedin on this half-day city tour. Explore Dunedin with a guide and take in key sites of interest such as the World famous Baldwin Street, University of Otago, Olveston Homestead gardens and Dunedin's Grand Railway Station. Awesome lookouts over Otago Harbour and from Signal Hill. Visit the Octagon (city centre) for some shopping and a bite to eat. All transport to and from the cruise ship wharf is included. Enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour, limited to 20 people. Daily departures are available for cruise passengers and city-based passengers.
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Professional guide, Port or Hotel pickup and drop-off, Bottled water, Light refreshments
Exclusions: Lunch
Reviewed By Truejaffa
We would thoroughly recommend using Iconic Tours. And here’s why. Last week we visited the Catlins with Kim from Iconic Tours. The Catlins had been on our bucket list for some time but we had never managed to get there until now. We had heard accommodation and cafes were in short supply down there and we wanted to ensure we didn't miss any highlights so we opted for a tour instead of self drive. Kim collected us from the airport in a comfortable air conditioned sedan and drove us into the city, pointing out places of interest as we went. He did a brief tour around the city centre, took us up to our accommodation in Roslyn and waited while we dropped our bags off, then dropped us back at the i- site. We spent the next 3 days exploring Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula which we really enjoyed. But the best was yet to come! Kim is a great driver and guide and he packed a lot into our 2 day Catlins tour, while never rushing or hurrying us. He is knowledgeable and articulate with a keen interest in the history of places and the local flora and fauna. As he was doing the driving we were able to sit back and relax and enjoy the scenery, and no need to worry if we had missed a turn off or if the road or a café were closed – he had all the local knowledge to adapt if necessary. But here’s a tip- allow 3 days , there is so much to see and do. He drove us down unsealed roads that we wouldn't have ventured on and the sights at the end were remarkable. We had walked the length of Cannibal Bay, admiring the sea lions basking on the sand and were about to head back to the car when Kim spotted a dark shape in the water . It was a huge sea lion swimming into the shallows, then walking up the beach and flipping onto the sand. Awesome. That was a highlight for us as was standing on the beach at Curio Bay in the dusk watching a lone Hoiho penguin make his way up the beach towards his nest. Our breakfast at the Tumu Toka Curio Bay cafe and our dinner at the Niagara Falls restaurant were culinary standouts. Superb service and delicious food. When we arrived at our beach front unit Kim brought in a platter of cheese and crackers and a bottle of bubbly to share with us as we reviewed the day. We then had a short rest, dinner then another visit to the beach to wait for the arrival of the little Hoiho, the rarest penguin in the world. Covered in the price of our tour was our accommodation at Curio Bay (which was a comfortable studio unit right on the beach) plus morning teas, lunches and a cooked breakfast and museum entries etc, plus of course a driver/guide. Kim managed to pack in a tremendous amount of things each day from walks through native bush to see amazing waterfalls, seeing the petrified forest and visits to museums to watching fur seals on the rocks. Kim also does Stewart Island tours and we've got that in mind for the future as we couldn't imagine a better tour guide. And the Catlins? Pristine, uncrowded, an awesome experience.’
8. Dunedin Shore Excursion: Small-Group Tour of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 127 reviews
See the beautiful countryside surrounding Dunedin when your cruise ship is in port, on a small-group tour of the Otago Peninsula. This scenic tour takes you to lookouts for panoramic views over the countryside and coast, and reveals the relaxed seaside villages surrounding Dunedin. See sea lions basking in the sun on one of the regions most scenic beaches, and enjoy the personalized attention on this small-group shore excursion, with numbers limited to 19 people.
Inclusions: Live commentary on board, Professional guide, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, Worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Viewing of wildlife is not guaranteed
Reviewed By keithcG4728US
We have been trying to contact you for the last 2 weeks due to mobility issues . The documentation you sent me wjen I booked in September 2020 had no contact details or the name of the land provide? The land provider contacted me on Wednesday 05/05/2021 and was made aware of the cancellation. You have debited our credit card with AUD$385.60. Please refund this amount ASAP. Regards, Keith F G Colyer.
9. Join the locals: Walk and Talk Dealer Art Galleries in Dunedin
Join the locals.4th Saturdays morning walk & Talk an art precinct Summer/Autumn & Spring seasons. Discover Dunedin’s fabulous visual arts. Always changing. Always evolving. Along with the literary art and music scene, Dunedin has developed a great fine visual arts sector. There is a significant collection of fine art galleries, ever changing exhibitions of emerging, mid-career and established artists, reflecting the creativity found in the Southern climes.
Inclusions: Local guide, Professional art guide
Exclusions: Food and drinks
Reviewed By susankendrick7
Warm and welcoming Brian and Caril share their love of art, and with TJ's superb knowledge and humour you will discover that art need not be scary or hard to understand. Unbiased information sprinkled with local history makes for a fun and exciting couple of hours, with an optional shared coffee afterwards for sharing views and making new friends.
10. Dunedin Shore Excursion: Sights, Glenfalloch Gardens, Chinese Gardens & Museum
A must-do for garden enthusiasts! This Dunedin shore excursion includes a guided tour of the stunning Glenfalloch Gardens, with a delicious morning tea included, and a sightseeing tour of Dunedin City with entertaining commentary and time to explore on your own. Also there will be visits to both the beautiful Chinese Gardens and historic Otago Early Settlers Museum before returning you to your cruise ship in Port Chalmers.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Morning Tea, Entrance Fees, Driver/guide, Port pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Food and drink, unless specified, Gratuities
Reviewed By ClosesOnTour
Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.
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