Karitane Maori Tours
Visit the idyllic village of Karitane just 30 minutes north of Dunedin city, and deepen your connection to the natural environment as you voyage across the enchanting Waikouaiti River in a modern waka. An outstanding experience made richer by the sharing of customs and stories of the local iwi and the spectacular beauty of the Huriawa Peninsula.
Otago Farmers Market
Voted the best market of its kind in New Zealand, the Otago Farmers Market is a thriving community hub, where foodies gather for their weekly treats. With a focus on local artisan producers, there is a mouth-watering selection of fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, chocolate, dips and sauces, honey, meats and of course coffee on offer. The popular stall-holders sell out early so get in quick on Saturday mornings at the Dunedin Railway Station.
Cruise the Otago Harbour
A few hours cruising the sparkling waters of the Otago Harbour are a wonderful way to experience some of Dunedin’s most special places. A number of operators including Monarch Wildlife Cruises and Port to Port offer specialised trips that take in the wildlife of Taiaroa Head, revisit the maritime history and even offer ferry services between the peninsula and Port Chalmers. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of picturesque waterside hamlets, each with their own unique character. Port to Port also offer a harbour ferry service for foot passengers and cyclists in addition to fascinating wildlife and maritime history tours.
Check out the birds
Dunedin is known as the Wildlife Capital of New Zealand for a reason. Twitchers and general admirers of cute feathered creatures can visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross and can explore the hidden tunnels of historic Fort Taiaroa while they are there. The nearby Pilots Beach is the perfect spot to see blue penguins emerging from the sea to return to their nests as the sun sets. On the other side of the harbour is Orokonui Ecosanctuary, a specially protected native forest where visitors may see tuatara and 17 species of native bird. It has a track network to suit all abilities and offers self-guided walking and guided tours.
The Mornington Cable Cars
The dream of the High Street Cable Car Society is to reinstate a classic cable car service into town and back from Mornington, following High Street with its fabulous views of heritage homes, the city, sea and harbour. For now, you can visit their beautifully restored cars at Mornington Park each weekend and occasionally during the week. The jovial volunteer guides are passionate about these gorgeous vehicles and will relate colourful tales about their history and their hopes for greater things.
Larnach Castle
New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle is set amongst lush and carefully tended gardens atop a hill on the Otago Peninsula. The beautifully restored Gothic revival buildings and grounds, offer an insight into the lives of the wealthy family that once owned it and in true Gothic style, the castle does indeed come with a ghost and a colourful past. These days the biggest drama is which kind of scone to choose as part of the glorious high teas served in the ballroom café. The castle is open for daily tours and offers a range of accommodation including the Castle Stable Stay, Larnach Lodge and luxurious Camp Estate.