Dunedin to Queenstown One Way Including Taieri Gorge Train
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This isn’t just a journey, it’s a story unfolding across gold rush trails, highland outposts, and cinematic landscapes. Travelling from Dunedin to Queenstown with Cheeky Kiwi means you’ll experience the very best of Central Otago in a way that’s personal, luxurious, and unforgettable.
Most tours are about getting from A to B. Ours is about everything in between. From the moment you board the historic Taieri Gorge Train in Dunedin, you’re immersed in a world of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and thoughtful stops that showcase Central Otago’s hidden gems.
Available options
Dunedin to Queenstown One Way Including Taieri Gorge Train
What's included
Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
Morning tea stop at Dunstan House (food available for purchase)
Taieri Gorge Train ticket (Dunedin to Pukerangi)
Small group experience (max 15 guests)
Hotel drop-off in Queenstown
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your journey in Dunedin, the cultural capital of the South. Admire the elaborate architecture of the station before boarding the Taieri Gorge Train.
2
Stop 2
Experience the engineering marvel of the Taieri Gorge Railway. Traverse narrow gorges, deep canyons, and century-old viaducts as you travel inland toward the Otago highlands.
3
Disembark at this remote high country outpost and meet your guide for the second leg of the journey — a scenic road adventure through Central Otago’s most historic and picturesque locations.
4
Step into the eerie beauty of this ghost town frozen in time. Visit the surreal Blue Lake, formed by gold mining, and wander the preserved streets of this former gold rush settlement.
5
A perfect photo stop, the 1880-built suspension bridge spans the Manuherikia River and showcases the pioneering engineering spirit of 19th-century Otago.
6
Enjoy morning tea in the heart of historic Clyde at this beautifully restored heritage hotel. With roots in the 1860s gold boom, Dunstan House combines old-world charm with modern comfort.
7
Nestled at the confluence of two rivers, Cromwell is a charming Central Otago town with a vibrant heritage precinct and award-winning local produce.
8
Journey through the striking Kawarau Gorge, where steep cliffs, turquoise waters, and tales of gold seekers unfold around every corner. Take in views of Lake Dunstan and the dramatic Gibbston wine region.
9
Conclude your day in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel — leaving you with unforgettable memories of the landscapes, legends, and stories that shaped this region.
What's not included
Accommodation
Hotel pickup in Dunedin
Safety/Booster seats for children 0 - 7
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. Will you require seat hire ($20NZD per seat) or will you bring your own?
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Meeting point
Begin your journey in Dunedin by collecting your tickets at the Dunedin railway station, check in, before boarding the Taieri Gorge Train.
Important notes
Please check in at the Dunedin Railway Station for the Taieri Gorge Train at least 30 minutes before departure. The train departs at 9:30am.
Your train tickets have been booked under the names provided on your Viator/Tripadvisor booking.
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
