Dunedin accommodation from AU$55

Dunedin was settled by the famous explorer James Cook in 1770, almost 80 years before the city was named based on a Scottish Gaelic variation of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Today, Dunedin’s Scottish heritage runs deep in the city’s veins, as many of the ornate buildings inspired by Edinburgh architecture are still standing. Tourists are drawn to the sight of the Dunedin Railway Station, an eclectic building built in the Renaissance style. The station features stunning contrasting brickwork, a 37-metre clocktower and inside, an intricate mosaic floor of almost 750,000 tiles. It’s no wonder the station is the most photographed building in New Zealand! You can also catch a train from the Dunedin Railway Station through the Taieri Gorge, a deep canyon carved by the Taieri River thousands of years ago. This sightseeing trip will take you across the rugged Otago landscape, offering spectacular scenery and plenty of photographic opportunities. You can even use this tour as part of your trip to Queenstown or Central Otago.

A stay in our Dunedin hotels puts you close to the Otago Peninsula, also known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand. A popular eco-tourism destination, the Peninsula’s beaches, green pastures and rugged volcanic landforms make for excellent sightseeing. Put on your walking shoes and take a stroll along the hilly walkways leading to cliff-side lookouts and see if you can spot seals, sea lions, a Royal Albatross or the rare and endangered Yellow Eyed Penguin. Further inland you can find Larnach Castle, the only castle in Australasia. Built by 200 workmen over a 15 year period in the 19th century, the castle was a gift from baron William Larnach to his beloved wife. Today you can explore the master craftsmanship of the castle and the lush beauty of the gardens, or even feast on a meal fit for a king!

Speaking of food, Dunedin is home to many tasty culinary delights. The Otago Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning, offers a wide range of local produce such as fruits, cheese, wine and baked goods. Those with a sweet tooth would do well to tuck into ice cream by the Gourmet Ice-Cream Company or pay a visit to the famous Cadbury World chocolate factory. Visit in July for Cadbury’s annual Chocolate Carnival, which includes the Jaffa Race, which sees bright orange chocolate balls tumble down the steepest street in the world towards the finish line. Feeling thirsty? Dunedin also has a lively pub crawl scene as well as Speight’s, the city’s very own brewery.

Experience these delights and more in this endearing city with our Dunedin accommodation and cheap flights to Dunedin.

Need insider tips on must-see attractions in Dunedin? Check out our Dunedin travel guide!