Otago Peninsula's Hidden Gems: A Self Guided Driving Tour
Active
3h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Otago Peninsula stretches like a finger from the city of Dunedin into the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique landscape where harbor meets high cliffs, rolling farmland and rugged coastlines. On this self-guided driving tour, you'll experience the peninsula's diverse ecosystems, discover hidden beaches, encounter remarkable wildlife, and explore historical sites that tell the story of early Māori and European settlement in New Zealand's southeast corner.
You'll start at the Portobello Road Information Stop, before driving along the winding harbor road. You'll have opportunities to visit the award-winning Glenfalloch Gardens, explore the beaches at Macandrew Bay and Broad Bay, and stop at the historic Fletcher House. The journey continues over the peninsula to the wild Pacific side where secluded beaches, volcanic formations like The Pyramids, and abundant marine wildlife await your discovery.
Available options
Otago Peninsula's Hidden Gems: A Self Guided Driving Tour
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
Glenfalloch is a historic woodland garden featuring colourful flowers, native ferns, and tranquil streams. Visitors experience the grounds by following the gentle walking paths at their own pace.
2
Fletcher House is a meticulously restored Edwardian villa, offering a glimpse into domestic life in 1909. You will experience the home's authentic period furnishings and architecture during a guided tour.
3
Port to Port is a harbour ferry and cruise operator providing transport and wildlife tours. Your route passes their departure point, offering views of the vessels and harbour activity.
4
The Portobello Museum is housed in a former Priory and details the peninsula's local history. You will experience this stop by browsing the collected photographs, artefacts, and displays inside.
5
Monarch Wildlife Cruises is a boat tour operator departing from Wellers Rock for wildlife viewing. Your route stops at their departure point, where you can observe the boats and harbour.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
OPERA is a conservation alliance dedicated to restoring native biodiversity on the peninsula. Visitors experience the project's impact by observing the extensive predator-proof fence and the protected landscapes.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
The Royal Albatross Centre is the world's only mainland breeding colony for Northern Royal Albatross. You will experience this landmark by viewing the birds from a protected observatory and visiting the educational displays.
8
Allan's Beach is a broad, sandy coastline known for its dunes and populations of sea lions and seals. You will experience this area by walking along the shore, observing the wildlife from a respectful distance.
9
Sandfly Bay is a remote, windswept bay featuring a massive sand dune and dramatic coastal cliffs. Visitors experience the site by walking down the steep dune to the beach, a common location for spotting sea lions and penguins.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
Larnach Castle is New Zealand's only castle, notable for its Victorian architecture and restored interiors. Visitors experience the landmark by touring the opulent rooms and exploring the extensive, themed gardens.
11
The Soldiers Monument is a memorial dedicated to fallen soldiers, located at one of the peninsula's highest points. You will experience this stop by observing the 360-degree panoramic views over the harbour and surrounding landscape.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Meeting point
This tour starts at the Portobello Road Information Stop on Portsmouth Drive. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading."
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula
Dunedin and The Otago Peninsula offer a unique blend of Scottish heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and abundant wildlife. This region is known for its dramatic cliffs, wildlife encounters, and historic architecture, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Top Attractions
Larnach Castle
Larnach Castle is a historic castle and garden that offers a glimpse into Dunedin's past. The castle is known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful gardens.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
Moderate
Royal Albatross Centre
The Royal Albatross Centre is the only mainland breeding colony of northern royal albatross in the world. Visitors can observe these magnificent birds up close.
Nature/Wildlife
1-2 hours
Moderate
Dunedin Botanic Gardens
Dunedin Botanic Gardens is one of the world's best botanical gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants, a winter garden, and a Japanese garden.
Nature/Gardens
1-2 hours
Free
Dunedin Chinese Garden
The Dunedin Chinese Garden is a beautiful and serene garden that celebrates the city's Chinese heritage. It features traditional Chinese architecture, plants, and water features.
Cultural/Historical
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan, contains meat and offal.
Whitebait Fritters
A New Zealand delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and fried into a fritter.
Lunch
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Venison
New Zealand is famous for its game meats, and venison is a popular choice, often served with seasonal vegetables and sauces.
Dinner
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Wildlife tours
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Beachcombing
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Dunedin is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Dunedin International Airport • 25 km from city center
By train
Dunedin Railway Station
By bus
Dunedin Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is affordable and convenient, with frequent departures and easy-to-use routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Octagon
St. Kilda
North East Valley
Day trips
Moeraki Boulders
100 km from Dunedin • Full day
The Moeraki Boulders are large, spherical boulders scattered along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. These unique geological formations are a must-see for nature lovers.
Catlins Coast
150 km from Dunedin • Full day or overnight
The Catlins Coast is a remote and rugged coastline known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife, including seals, penguins, and dolphins.
Central Otago Wine Region
200 km from Dunedin • Full day or overnight
The Central Otago Wine Region is known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and scenic drives.
Festivals
Dunedin Arts Festival • May
Dunedin Fringe Festival • March
Dunedin Winter Arts Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Royal Albatross Centre early in the morning for the best chance of seeing the albatross up close
- Book a guided tour of Larnach Castle to learn about its fascinating history and architecture
- Explore the Otago Peninsula by car or bike for a more immersive experience
- Visit the Dunedin Botanic Gardens in spring or summer for the best blooming flowers and scenic views
- Try local specialties like haggis, whitebait fritters, and venison for an authentic taste of Dunedin's cuisine
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
