Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula , New Zealand

Mainland Peninsula Tour

Active

(72 reviews)

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a full-day tour experiencing lovely Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula. You will see all the city highlights before journeying along the Otago Peninsula, which is full of wildlife and the majestic Larnach Castle (garden entry included, the tour inside the castle can be booked and paid for on the day if required). Also included is a visit to The Opera (Formerly Known as Penguin Place) - learn about the Yellow-Eyed penguin and our conservation efforts to protect them. Guests then move into the rehabilitation centre (when penguins are present) where Yellow-Eyed penguins and other penguin species can be seen up close. Then a short bus trip to the reserve where you are guided on an approximately 2km nature walk (Some steps included and uneven ground). Your local guide has many stories of the area and knows all the best spots and vantage points along the way. There is plenty of time to chat and enjoy the commentary during your small-group tour.

Available options

Mainland Peninsula Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Larnach castle gardens only

Professional guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Opera Eco Reserve Entry

Live commentary on board

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will visit New Zealand's only castle. Explore the extensive gardens and see stunning views of Otago harbour. Or just relax with a great coffee and some tasty food. (Garden entry included. The tour inside the castle can be booked and paid for on the day if required.)

Stop 2

Visit The Opera (Formerly Known as Penguin Place) - learn about the yellow-eyed penguin and our conservation efforts to protect them. Guests then move into the rehabilitation centre (when penguins are present) where yellow-eyed penguins and other penguin species can be seen up close. Then a short bus trip to the reserve where you are guided on an approximately 2km nature walk (Some steps included and uneven ground) with the potential to see numerous plants and animals, including yellow-eyed penguins and little penguins, fur seals, sea lions and more.

Stop 3

Visit Dunedin Railway Station the most photographed building in the southern hemisphere. Beautiful Edwardian architecture.

Stop 4 Pass by

The center of Dunedin.

New Zealand's 1st university and a fabulous place to get some great photos.

Stop 6

Visit the worlds steepest city street. Feeling like a stroll? Take the climb to the top.

What's not included

Entrance fees ( Castle tour entry)

Food and drinks (available to purchase)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

35 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

37 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

At time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

A maximum of 11 people per booking

A large amount of walking is involved at The opera Eco Reserve. If unable to take the tour into the reserve there is an option to wait at reception

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Not Suitable for wheelchairs and walkers

Meeting point

We have vans with signage. We will see you at your accommodation or in the terminal at the port where we will be holding up a large Tourworks sign. (Do NOT take the shuttle into town). We will see you in the terminal 15 minutes before scheduled start time.

Important notes

• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

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