Dunedin & Southland

Photo credit:Penguin Place

Beach encounters with rare wildlife, the harsh beauty of time-scarred hills and cities full of ornate historic architecture - these are some of the memories you can collect in Dunedin and Southland. Surprising contrasts make every day different; natural history and human history converge.

Close encounters with rare animals will renew your passion for the natural world. The Otago Peninsula is home to the only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross in the world. Another eco-experience is a visit to the penguin beach, where yellow-eyed penguins surf ashore each evening. The drive through the Catlins area is punctuated by viewings of fur seals, sea lions, elephant seals and dolphins. And if you catch the ferry to Stewart Island, hiking in Rakiura National Park will let you enjoy the company of bellbirds, tui, fantails, kaka and kiwi.

Dunedin is a neo-gothic city by the sea with impressive Victorian and Edwardian buildings. It was founded by Scottish settlers and built on the riches of the gold rush. The cities of Invercargill and Oamaru also have a proud architectural heritage. Leave the coast and drive west where gnarled, brown hills are scored with trails made by prospectors during the gold rush. This area has a true continental climate - hot in summer, cold in winter. Pinot noir vineyards flourish alongside fruit orchards.

Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula is home to rare and unusual coastal wildlife. Discover hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins), little blue penguins and the world’s only mainland albatross colony. Sea lions and fur seals also live here.

Heritage architecture
The Otago gold rush left a legacy of ornate Victorian and Edwardian buildings, regarded as the best collection in the Southern Hemisphere. The Flemish Renaissance-styled railway station is one outstanding example.

Gold history
In Central Otago retrace the steps of the hardy gold miners who carved their living from the harsh and often unforgiving environment. Relive their experiences in the museums and historic sites throughout the region.

The Catlins Coast
Winding between Fortrose and Kaka Point, the Catlins Coast takes you to enthralling wildlife experiences, beautiful waterfalls and rustic, farmland scenery. Beaches, forest walks and nostalgic hospitality will capture your heart.

Rakiura National Park, Stewart Island
Stewart Island is an ecological wonderland. The clamour of civilisation is replaced by rapturous birdsong and sounds of the sea. Rendezvous with a kiwi, visit Ulva Island bird sanctuary or walk one of the many tracks.

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