Bluestone On George

Dunedin was founded in 1848 by Scottish settlers at the head of the Otago Harbour. It had a sudden increase in wealth when gold was discovered in Central Otago in 1861. Dunedin has retained many of its old buildings and its Victorian and Edwardian houses are of great interest to anyone exploring the history of architecture. Dunedin is a university city and the beautiful buildings of the University of Otago are close to the city centre. Cafes, restaurants, bars and a fabulous mix of shops compete for space along George Street and around what is known as the “Octagon.” The main shopping area is very compact and easy to get around.

Close to the university is the Otago Museum, which is well worth a visit. A short distance further north the Dunedin Botanic Gardens spread over the hillside and a particular attraction in the spring is the rhododendron dell.

The Otago Peninsula is arguably New Zealands most renowned eco tourism areas. There are unique opportunities to view a remarkable range of wildlife including Royal Albatross, blue penguins and the rare yellow-eyed penguins, water and wading birds and a variety of seals. Also on the Otago Peninsula a mansion in the style of a Scottish baronial castle was built in 1871 by William Larnach and the present owners open it to the public.

Of course the city has a range of good restaurants, fine swimming baths, sports grounds and pleasant walks, especially in the Town Belt - a green area half way up the hills behind the inner city.

The following are a few of the most popular attractions in and around Dunedin in no particular order :-

- Larnach Castle
- Monarch Wildlife Cruises
- Otago Museum
- Natures Wonders
- Speights Brewery Tours
- Olveston
- Early Settlers Museum
- Cadbury World
- Taieri George Railway
- Elm Wildlife Tours
- Yellow Eyed Penguin Colony
- Dunedin City Explorer
- The Royal Albatross colony

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