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Otago Peninsula, New Zealand

Dunedin & Otago

Kiwi culture with a Scottish twist

Things to do in Dunedin & Otago

Introduction

The south-eastern corner of New Zealand's South Island is perhaps the least explored part of the country. Its largest settlement is Dunedin, an attractive and welcoming place with strong Scottish roots. The nearby Otago Peninsula is home to rare marine species and seabirds, some of which are found in greater numbers here than anywhere else in the world.

Explore Dunedin

Otago's main city was once New Zealand's largest. And, the influence of its Scottish founders can be seen in its Gothic-revival architecture and the names of its streets and suburbs. In fact, Dunedin itself wad the old name for Edinburgh. Today, you'll find a city full of creativity, thanks in part to the University of Otago – New Zealand's oldest – whose students create a youthful buzz. The city's central plaza, the Octagon, is home to the impressive St Paul's Cathedral and Dunedin Public Art Gallery, which houses centuries-spanning collections from local and international artists alike. And, just a short hop from the city, you'll find a beautiful and varied coastline with good surf and swimming beaches as well as swathes of open countryside.


The Octagon, Dunedin

Visit the Otago Peninsula

This hilly peninsula to the east of Dunedin is one of New Zealand's most impressive wildlife hotspots. Species here include the little penguin, hooker sea lions, elephant and fur seals and the endangered, and the wonderfully named, hoiho. The real stars however are the royal albatrosses, which can be spotted soaring above Taiaroa Head. These magnificent birds, with a wingspan of between two and three metres, usually breed on offshore islands, making the Otago Peninsula the only mainland albatross breeding colony in the world.    


The Otago Peninsula

 

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Top itineraries in Dunedin & Otago

Queenstown, New Zealand

Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £3,790 pp incl. flights

With boutique hotel stays and car hire included throughout, this curated road trip perfectly showcases the unique cultures and natural wonders of New Zealand's North and South islands.

Rotorua, New Zealand

Cultural Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £5,630 pp incl. flights

A tip-to-toe tour of New Zealand, taking in the best of its landscapes and culture, and calling into filming locations from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

Maui Ultima Elite

New Zealand by Motorhome

20-day motorhome self-drive from £4,685 pp incl. flights

With its spectacular driving routes linking gorgeous coastlines and vast national parks, and plenty of gorgeous locations to pull up and park, find out why New Zealand is tailor-made for a motorhome holiday.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Wilderness Highlights of New Zealand

23-day tailor-made self-drive from £8,490 pp incl. flights

Discover the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand's north and south islands on this fly-drive holiday, which includes a journey across the Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine Express.

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Top places to stay in Dunedin & Otago

Main Lodge, Matakauri Lodge

Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown

Small & intimate lodge

Located just seven minutes from the lively centre of Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge sits on the shores of stunning Lake Wakatipu. With breathtaking views over the jagged peaks of the Remarkables mountain range, this lodge is a world away from the hustle and bustle of New Zealand's adventure capital.

The Birches exterior, New Zealand

The Birches, Dunedin

Small & intimate b&b

Your hosts Avril and Karl welcome you to their delightful property where original charm and hearty breakfasts ensure comfortable stays.

When to go to Dunedin & Otago

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Meet our Dunedin & Otago experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7590 0614

Meet the team

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0614 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

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Every step of the way

Every step of the way

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