Discover the Charm of 🇳🇿 Dunedin: Your Ultimate South Island City Adventure

Dunedin might not be the top pick for travelers heading to New Zealand’s South Island, often overshadowed by the dazzling allure of Queenstown, Cook, and Tekapo. Yet, Dunedin offers a unique charm; it’s more of a refined European town with a rugged Oceania twist. After our breathtaking visit to Milford Sound, we were pleasantly surprised by the scale of Dunedin, a hidden gem on the east coast that exceeded our expectations.

The city’s attractions are wonderfully compact. Start at the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, and you can easily explore most of the highlights in the central area. We parked our car on the street opposite the station and paid for parking at a nearby machine. The station’s interior is a photographer’s dream, with many tourists snapping pictures with the ornate sign (P5/6).

As we entered, a vintage train with orange carriages was just pulling in, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. After exploring the station, a short 200-meter walk in the opposite direction brings you to a picturesque square, offering a perfect view of the railway station and the bustling street scene (first picture).

The First Church of Otago, an architectural marvel, is also just a stone’s throw away.

A bit further from the station lies Baldwin Street, famous for being the world’s steepest street, ascending 70 meters in elevation over a mere 350 meters. Following our navigation, we drove there in about 10 minutes and were immediately struck by the sight of the steep incline. Parking was easy, and despite its popularity, we arrived during a lull, allowing us to capture some fantastic photos (P16). A charming little house on the street provides a great backdrop for creative snapshots (P15).

In summary, Dunedin is a delightful stop that doesn’t require an extended stay; a day or two is plenty. From here, a scenic drive to Oamaru awaits, where you can encounter sea lions, seals, and penguins along the way. If you’re an animal lover, the east coast is a must-see.