Home to urban art galleries, craft beers bars, and an eclectic mix of Kiwis, Dunedin's far more than New Zealand's 'student city'. Located on the scenic South Island, it's raised some of the country's best indie bands and has music running through its DNA.
Beyond the historic gig venues and stunning architecture, Dunedin is a paradise for nature lovers, with awesome hiking trails where you can spot local wildlife.
Just a 3.5 hour direct flight from the Goldie, Dunedin's perfect for a restorative long-weekend packed with experiences you can't get in Australia.
Not sure where to begin? We’ve rounded up where to eat, stay, and play so that you can explore like a true Kiwi.
Where To Eat And Drink
Ōtepoti’s Kai (food) scene is thriving, so make sure you arrive hungry. For epic drops and carefully curated cabinet goodies, you have to check out Buster Greens. This bright and modern cafe on Dunedin's main street is known for serving up colorful superfood and Kiwi classics. We recommend ordering their Pork Belly Bene to feast on as you watch the colourful local students emerge late Sunday morning.
Because New Zealand's coffee is a cut above the rest, order your mid-morning pick me up at the new kid on the Octagon block, Commons Eatery. This cosy spot is already a local fave and is the perfect place for a quick breather in between browsing the surrounding shops stocked with local goodies. Need some extra fuel? Their classic cheese scones served with a wad of fresh butter never miss.
If you're a sammie and pastry connoisseur, hit up the Big Lizard. This Vogel Street hotspot leads the city's focaccia and potato roll game. Think Cauli Pakora and out-the-gate Tuna Melts. Oh, and did we mention their fries are served with a Chicken Katsu Curry salt?
For immaculate holiday vibes, meander along the St Clair waterfront and let your eyes and nose guide you to Esplanade. This locally loved Italian icon is an all-day pizza, cocktail, and wine hub. Trust us when we say a trip to Dunedin is not complete without sharing their Quattro Stagioni over a glass of wine with your travel companion. When the wind picks up and it gets chilly, move inside for a butterscotch creme pot and a saucy slab of tiramisu.
Where To Stay And Unwind
There’s just something about nice accommodation after a day of exploring.
If you're looking for a slice of classic Otago charm, the architectural gem Ebb Dunedin is a safe bet. With rooms dressed à la mode, light-filled lounges on every floor, and an epic atrium garden crowned by a retractable roof, this place takes indoor-outdoor flow to the next level.
Built-in 1878 by coffee merchant Thomas Gregg, The Thomas Gregg Apartments are boutique waterfront 2-bedders with everything you need for a great stay.
It would be rude not to introduce you to Dunedin’s old luxury-esq 5-star gem, Fable. With 50 plush rooms and an in-house eatery inspired by Dunedin's gold rush era, enjoying a braised lamb shank over an extensive whisky menu before hitting the hay is the perfect way to end an evening.
Finally, if you need to secure the perfect spot for a special occasion, you can’t go wrong with Kaimata Retreat. This breathtaking paradise nestled into the hills of the Otago Peninsula offers the perfect lodging for a romantic escape or an unforgettable family adventure. Prepare to say good morning to the majestic Royal Albatross, and keep an eye out for the playful sea lions and fur seals basking on the shores.
Where To Experience The Great Outdoors
You're never far from a great beach in Dunedin. Whether you’re after long white stretches of sand with the perfect surf break or a hidden cove for cosy picnic vibes, epic Instagrammable spots with views for miles are a guarantee from anywhere on the coast. Tunnel Beach, Brighton Beach and Warrington Beach are a few local favourites.
Need to work up an appetite so you can secure yet another thick slab of melt-in-your-mouth focaccia? Head out for a walk. Dunedin's diverse terrain includes loads of scenic coastal walks, forest-laden hill climbs, or sedate strolls for a more relaxed pace. Traipse through the greenery around Ross Creek, strike out along the skyline of Flagstaff, or explore the ocean views for miles from the Sandymount track.
Keen to pick up the pace? Rent a bike and glide alongside the water and wildlife of the Otago Harbour on the newly minted cycle path that runs between Port Chalmers and Portobello. So scenic that you’ll be hard-pressed to keep your eyes on the path; the track will take you past numerous photo ops, at least one brewery, a gin distillery, and plenty of places to stop for a snack.
Make the most of the scenic Coastal Otago landscape aboard the Seasider. You'll learn more about Dunedin's history and natural surroundings and make a refreshing pitstop at Arc Brewery to sip a drink with the locals and browse Dr. Rock’s geology.
For more inspiration for your next long weekend vacay to this humble South Island gem, visit here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Enterprise Dunedin and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Image credit: Urban List, Dunedin City Council.