Things to Do in
Dunedin

See up to 200 blue penguins returning from sea in the evening! (Generally more penguins are seen over the spring/summer than our autumn or winter months, but we guarantee to see penguins every night!! In the non-breeding months of March to August we often see 20-50 birds each night, however on rare occasions we might see fewer than 10 birds). Extremely close viewing of these birds. Learn about the Māori history of this significant site. Tour includes a special "behind the scenes" look at the reserve and penguin habitat. We are the only blue penguin evening tours that allows photography (but no flash photography) Voted in the top 10 experiences in New Zealand (TripAdvisor 2022). Most tours are led by conservation experts/biologists. Other wildlife often seen (e.g., seals, sealions, albatross)

If you are a visitor that truly wants to see and understand the unique ecosystems, wildlife, culture, geology and botany of the Otago Peninsula then join this tour. We see a variety of wildlife species along the way (seasonal). At Pukekura we have a good chance to see seals nearby & albatross flying overhead. Later we join our Blue Penguins Pukekura Experience tour, see the world's smallest penguin emerging from the sea and walking past us just metres away. Note: Others join us for that part of this experience (max 75) PHOTOGRAPHY IS ALLOWED (no flash) We will offer viator refunds of 30% if we see less than 5 penguins ! (Lower than booking direct through our own website where we can offer refunds of 50%) If no availability on this site, check our own website for additional availability/other tours. As a Charitable Trust our aim is to look after our reserve and protect the Otago Peninsula's largest penguin colony. Top 10 TripAdvisor's Best Experiences in New Zealand 2023.

Its a mini tour of the harbour as we cross from one side to the other. The scenery is stunning, there are many birds to see on the way. The skipper gives a commentary about the history and volcanic nature of the area, as well as the other interesting aspects we see on the way. Comfortable custom built vessel, cushioned seats, heated cabin.

We meet you at the Port Chalmers Cruise Ship Terminal for the 'Larnach Castle & Dunedin City Highlights Tour' Stops include: -Dunedin Railway Station (most photographed building in NZ) -Baldwin Street (world's steepest street) -Otago University (NZ's oldest University) -Signal Hill Lookout -Heritage Buildings Plus more After the 'City Highlights Tour' we drop you off at the Octagon in the City Centre. You will have 1 hour of free time for lunch & shopping. Meridian Shopping Mall is 2 blocks away with a Food Court. After lunch we depart on the journey up to the Castle. We take in the magnificent views of the peninsula and make a quick stop at a lookout for a great photo opportunity. On arrival we take you on a guided tour of the Castle with time afterwards to do some of your own exploring or check out the award-winning gardens. You also have the option to visit the Ballroom Cafe for refreshments. ($48 NZD Larnach Castle/Gardens entry fee is included in our tour price) No hidden fees.

A tour with Gregor is like no other. Emerging business award finalist, Tales From Darkest Dunedin and Gregor Campbell, respected historian and expert story teller has been uncovering forgotten events and people in Dunedin's history. He has been featured in newspapers for his finds and recently on the cover of New Zealand Heritage Magazine for his cemetery tours. Gregor is particularly interested in colonial history, the exchanges between Māori Kāi Tahu, the Scottish and the everyday people that came to make a life here, for better or for worse. And now he's your tour guide! Gregor's stories of murder, shipwrecks, discovery, heroes and villains are exclusive to Tales From Darkest Dunedin and weave together to give a greater picture of our city and the lives that brought it to where it is today.

Enjoy Dunedin on a private tour, tailored exclusively for your group of up to six passengers. A knowledgeable driver-guide will show you the city’s best spots in the comfort of a spacious van, giving you the flexibility to spend as much time as you like at each stop. A larger group option is also available. Take a scenic drive through Dunedin and along the Otago Peninsula, soaking in some of the region’s most breathtaking views. Your tour includes a stop at the Royal Albatross Centre (about 1 hour), home to the world’s only mainland colony of Royal Albatross. Here, you can enjoy lunch, explore the visitor centre, or step outside to see these magnificent seabirds in flight — and maybe spot nearby seals! On the return journey via Portobello Road along the harbour, keep an eye out for wading birds. With this tour, you have the freedom to create a truly memorable experience, customised to suit your group’s interests.

Dunedin is a great wee city and is best explored on foot. Once New Zealand's largest city, and now a university town, Dunedin boasts picturesque streetscapes and some standout Victorian and Edwardian (and Art Deco!) buildings. This small-group tour is fun and interesting - and a great introduction to Dunedin. See our reviews!

From the soaring spires to the sweeping beaches, experience the best of New Zealand's most fascinating wee city with an experienced local guide. We offer a selection of tours ranging from sight seeing and wildlife experiences to our popular brewery and distellery tour. After being picked up from your desired location you will visit Dunedin's most impressive, unique and charming sights. With an entertaining mix of story telling, beauty, wildlife and charm our tours provide visitors with an unforgettable experience and a fantastic insight into our hometown - Otepoti Dunedin. Contact us for details! Also in German!

This is an educational tour where we dive into the human history of New Zealand. Discussing how Polynesians (Māori) navigated to New Zealand with pin-point accuracy from Islands thousands of kilometers away. We explore all the key sights of Dunedin on a modern, comfortable mini bus on this small group tour. Starting at the Octagon, we pass several iconic buildings as we leave Central Dunedin including St Paul’s Cathedral, Otago Boys High School, First Church and the Dunedin Railway Station before arriving high up on the Otago Peninsula for scenic viewpoints. We venture to St Kilda and St Clair surf beaches where we break for a light lunch. Then it's past the botanic gardens to visit Baldwin Street, the World’s steepest street. Our final stop is the University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest university, where we take a guided walk around a collection of beautiful old iconic buildings.

Venture into New Zealand's stunning southern coast on a full-day tour from Dunedin to Te Anau, where the rugged beauty of the Catlins awaits. Explore natural wonders like the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, marvel at the picturesque Purakaunui Falls, and enjoy a creative lunch stop at the Lost Gypsy Caravan. Walk across the ancient petrified forest at Curio Bay and keep an eye out for rare wildlife such as yellow-eyed penguins. This small-group tour with expert local guides ensures a personalized experience filled with storytelling and comfort. - Scenic journey through the untouched Catlins region - Visit Nugget Point Lighthouse and Purakaunui Falls - Lunch at Papatowai with a quirky art experience - Small group size (max 15 guests) for an intimate experience

Discover Dunedin and the spectacular Otago Peninsula on a relaxed guided small-group tour (max 10 guests) away from crowded bus tours. Highlights include: • Dunedin Railway Station • Baldwin Street – the world’s steepest street • Explore Larnach Castle Gardens (castle interior entry not included) • Sandfly Bay coastal scenery, beaches, cliffs, sheep & cattle farmland • Look out for New Zealand sea lions along the coastline • Visit the Royal Albatross Centre area (observatory tour not included) • Scenic Otago Peninsula coastal drive • Friendly local guided commentary throughout the journey Designed for cruise passengers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a more personal Dunedin experience.

If you want easy access to Dunedin's most popular attractions or some various unknown locals only attractions. I own this business and take great pleasure in giving my clients the best day we can Greate in the short time we have to discover Dunedin city and surrounds.

Locally owned and operated business, comfortable step-through bikes designed for our amazing city cycle network, explore our amazing peninsular powered by our electric! Collect bikes anytime between 7:30am and 7:30pm (great flexibility rock on up when you want) from our self-serving (kiosk) at city location (10 Harrow Street) which is central to the City CBD and also located at the start of Harbour Cycle Loop, positioned to go either way (down Portobello direction or Port Chalmers).

Embark on an exclusive private tour, accommodating a maximum of five participants. This intimate setting ensures a personalized experience akin to a private tour, allowing for flexibility and customization. Our meticulously curated itinerary covers all the city’s highlights, providing a comprehensive exploration of Dunedin. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of lifestyle, history, and culture, tracing back to New Zealand’s early periods.

Explore New Zealand’s wild southern coast on a scenic one-way tour from Dunedin to Invercargill, traversing the breathtaking Catlins. This full-day adventure features stunning landscapes, including the Nugget Point Lighthouse, Purakaunui Falls, and the ancient petrified forest at Curio Bay. Enjoy a delightful lunch stop in the quirky village of Papatowai, and keep an eye out for native wildlife like seals and penguins. With a maximum of 15 guests, travel in comfort with an expert local guide, ensuring a personal and enriching experience throughout the journey. - Scenic 9-hour tour from Dunedin to Invercargill through the Catlins - Visit iconic sites including Nugget Point and Purakaunui Falls - Enjoy lunch at Papatowai and explore the Lost Gypsy Caravan - Small group experience in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle

We are Dunedin specialists in high end tour guiding private tours with years in the industry. We pride ourselves on immaculate vehicles, great guides and drivers and most of all FUN and laughs. Our days are fully customizable - you can choose on the day if you would like an add on from a brewery visit, gin distillery, Larnach Castle or Olveston Historic Home visit OR our amazing Honey and Hive experience. Otherwise we will fill your day in with all things that are popular around our city and even throw in some surprises along the way. Our motto is "start as strangers end as friends".

Discover Aoraki Mount Cook on a scenic private journey for up to 3–4 people. Your day begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Queenstown, Christchurch, or Dunedin. For Queenstown Pickup: Pass by Kawarau Suspension Bridge, Roaring Meg & Cromwell. Stop at Lindis Pass, and High Country Salmon. For Christchurch Pickup: Pass through Geraldine and Fairlie, stop at Fairlie Bakehouse, and visit Lake Tekapo. For Dunedin Pickup: Travel via Waitaki River and Omarama, with stops at Oamaru and High Country Salmon. Enjoy panoramic stops at Lake Pukaki and a scenic drive to Mount Cook. Take in stunning views, walk the Hooker Valley Track with its swing bridges and Hooker Lake, spot alpine kea, or engage in Tasman Glacier View Walks. Visit the Mount Cook Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s history. Choose to finish at Queenstown, Christchurch, Dunedin or end journey at Mount Cook. Total road time will be approximately 8.5 hours.

This private family tour reveals the cultural heritage, architectural character, and natural beauty of Dunedin, one of New Zealand’s most historic cities. Explore a destination shaped by Scottish traditions, maritime history, and centuries of cultural development, where elegant architecture and scenic landscapes come together to tell a remarkable story of transformation. Discover historic streets, heritage landmarks, and iconic sites that reflect Dunedin’s unique place in New Zealand’s history. Admire beautifully preserved heritage buildings and picturesque surroundings while uncovering the connections between the city’s past and present. This inspiring family experience combines cultural discovery, historical storytelling, architectural beauty. Zealand’s most celebrated historic destinations. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

This tour is a unique option if you are looking to make the most of your time while visisting Port Chalmers by cruise ship. It offers a combination of scenic ferry transport to Otago Peninsula, The popular OPERA Eco Sanctuary and Yellow Eyed Penguin rehabilitation centre, Glenfalloch Woodland Gardens and Dunedin City sights and drop off. Its a tour that covers it all and saves on travel time by combining ferry and coach.

Private Transport option with a flexible itinerary to suit your interests - SEE THE BEST SPOTS OF YOUR CHOOSING!

This immersive 5 day tour from Dunedin offers you a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting the majority of the top attractions in New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy optional handpicked activities and places to stay without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances yourself. The itinerary is designed to showcase the beauty of the South Island in a relaxed way. Start your tour in the charming city of Dunedin and conclude in the vibrant city of Christchurch. Enjoy comfort of a private tour for your group, benefiting from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting, handpicked 7 optional activities, like a scenic helicopter ride, a cruise in Milford or Doubtful Sound, a unique tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a scenic gondola ride, thrill jet boating, stargazing in Dark Sky Reserves, and the TranzAlpine scenic train ride.

Wanting to get to Portobello or Quarantine Island/Kamau Taurua? Ride with us on "Adagio" the coolest ferry on the harbour. Sit upstairs on the flybridge for the best views while travelling across the harbour. Our Dunedin Bike Ferry is the best option for crossing the harbour while cyling Te Aka Otakou, the Otago harbour cycleway. We have a flexible schedule, the best boat with an elevated viewing deck, and the cheapest fares.

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.

Experience the enchanting Otago Peninsula on this 4.5-hour evening tour, where the highlight is witnessing the return of the Little Blue Penguins after a day at sea. Departing from the Octagon, you'll travel along the picturesque Highcliff Road and Hooper's Inlet, with opportunities to spot local wading birds and albatrosses. Enjoy some leisure time before the penguin viewing, perhaps grabbing a hot drink or browsing the souvenir shop. As the sun sets, prepare for a unique wildlife experience as the smallest penguins make their way back to shore.

Wanting to get from Portobello to Port Chalmers or Quarantine Island/Kamau Taurua? Ride with us on "Adagio" the coolest ferry on the harbour. Sit upstairs on the flybridge for the best views while travelling across the beautiful Otago harbour. Our Dunedin Bike Ferry is the best option for crossing the harbour while cyling Te Aka Otakou, the Otago harbour cycleway. We have a flexible schedule, the best boat with an elevated viewing deck, and the cheapest fares.

Otago’s dramatic volcanic landscape was shaped by Māori history, Scottish settlement, gold rush ambition, and incredible feats of engineering. On this self-guided cycling tour, you’ll explore the scenic shoreline of Otago Harbour via the purpose-built Te Aka Ōtākou and Te Ara Moana cycle paths. You’ll hear the story of the harbour’s two distinct personalities: the industrial western shore and the leisurely, residential peninsula. You’ll also learn about the industries that built Dunedin, the pioneers and scoundrels who settled here, and the hidden histories buried just beneath the surface. The journey starts at Ravensbourne and follows the path to the historic seaport of Port Chalmers. From there, you’ll take the ‘Port to Port’ ferry across the water to the village of Portobello to begin the return leg of your ride. From bustling ports to tranquil bays, you’ll experience the full sweep of the harbour’s past and present.

The Seasider is one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal train journeys, travelling between Dunedin and the charming seaside towns north of the city. This relaxed half-day rail experience reveals breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastal cliffs and sweeping beaches — all best seen from the rails. Departing from the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, the journey follows Otago’s dramatic coastline through ever-changing landscapes. Whether you’re visiting from a cruise ship, exploring Otago, or looking for a memorable local experience, The Seasider offers a unique and comfortable way to see Dunedin from a new perspective.

This thoughtfully organized tour takes care of all the logistical details, freeing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the Catlins without worrying about tide tables or seasonal access restrictions. By expertly timing your visit to Cathedral Caves during the narrow low-tide window, the tour optimizes your experience at each iconic location and minimizes any potential hassles. With comfortable transportation, insightful local guidance, and a stress-free itinerary, you can simply relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery and unique wildlife of this unforgettable region.

This is much more than a ferry crossing-The Port To Port Bike Ferry is the original bike ferry on Otago Harbour. It is often described as the highlight of the Cycle Loop. Its a custom built ferry, with a purpose-built bike rack, allowing your bicycle to be safely loaded while you relax & enjoy the ride. In just 10 scenic minutes, you'll cross Otago Harbour & complete the famous Cycle Loop—a mostly flat, paved ride & one of Dunedin's must-do activities. Your skipper, Rachel, has been operating commercial vessels and guiding visitors on Otago Harbour since 2004. As a passionate local, she shares fascinating stories about the harbour's history, wildlife, working port, shipwrecks, volcanic landscape and hidden gems during the crossing. Port To Port is a family-owned, owner-operated business, so every trip is personal, friendly and professional. It's an opportunity to travel with a local, meet other cyclists and enjoy a genuine Dunedin experience loved by both visitors and locals alike.

Book your private Arrival transfer from Dunedin Int Airport (DUD) to Dunedin city hotels. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. All Vehicles fully licensed and insured. Our cars are equipped with all necessary facilities for a trip to any part of the world under any weather conditions, including additional fastenings for sports and other equipment.