Otago Harbour by Bike: A Self Guided Tour

Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula , New Zealand

Otago Harbour by Bike: A Self Guided Tour

Active

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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.

Available options

Otago Harbour by Bike: A Self Guided 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

We pass by the Port Chalmers Maritime Museum. Admission is by donation.

Up on the hill above Port Chalmers sits beautiful Iona Church. Free entry when it is open.

Stop 3 Pass by

We catch the ferry from the beautiful back beach.

We pass by Fletcher House in Broad Bay.

We'll cycle past the Broad Bay Beach Reserve.

We pass by Glenfalloch Gardens Cafe & Restaurant, admission to the gardens is by donation.

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

Written guide

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 OUSA Aquatic Centre. 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.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

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