Shore Excursion: Dunedin City, Otago Peninsula, Castle Gardens & Olveston Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start at Port Chalmers to experience the pure beauty of Dunedin on a fantastic tour of rich heritage, spectacular scenery.
You will experience memorable landscape of Otago Peninsula with amazing string of rugged beaches, bays on a Peninsula Drive via Highcliff Road to Larnach Castle. Your tour will include an entry to the garden only of the only castle of New Zealand - Larnach castle. You will stop at the world's steepest street, local lookout point to enjoy the views of city, peninsula and harbor, University of Otago - the oldest New Zeland university, Octagon, Dunedin Railway Station and internationally significant and the oldest botanic garden in New Zealand.
In addition you will join a 1 hour guided tour of Olveston historic home.
The tour is designed only for small groups, so you will enjoy flexibility and comfort in a small bus.
Important: this tour includes entry to castle garden only, to enter the castle building there is an extra cost $NZD20.
Available options
Including Olveston
Olveston instead of the train: This option doesn't include train trip. It includes a 1 hour guided tour of Olveston historic home.
What's included
Driver/guide
Round-trip shared transfer
Air-conditioned vehicle
Port pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A short stop to have a look or take a photo of Baldwin Street that used to hold a title of the steepest street in the world for the last 30 years
2
Stop 2
Marvel the panorama of Dunedin city and harbour and get a good idea of how city is laid out
3
A short stroll to view bird aviaries and unique plants that do well in Dunedin
4
Enjoy a short stop to view and take a photo of the oldest university of New Zealand - University of Otago.
5
Drive via a street mostly inhabited by Otago University students and see the house where a famous NZ band six60 started.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Pass by the heart of the city - the Octagon
7
Stop to view from outside and inside of the finest churches of New Zealand - First Church of Otago
8
Stop 8
Short stop at Dunedin Railway Station to view of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand.
9
Sit back and enjoy the drive to Larnach Castle Gardens with the most breathtaking views of Otago Peninsula and Otago Harbour
10
Stop 10
Enjoy roughly 1-1.5 hour at the Castle gardens to explore the gardens, stop at the cafe to grab some snacks and a drink and take lots of photos with amazing views. Hear the dramatic story of William Larnach and his family. Please note this tour includes entry to gardens only, there is an extra fee to enter the castle building itself.
Entry to the building of the castle is not included. there is an extra fee of NZD20 to pay at the door.
11
Stop 11
Olveston is an eloquent expression of one family's dream. A tour of Olveston allows an intimate glimpse of the lifestyle of a privileged family in the early 1900's. It reflects a lifestyle enjoyed by just a few, but represents a most important piece in the mosaic of early New Zealand life as a whole.
What's not included
Lunch
Food and drinks
Larnach Castle interior
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
51 reviews
5★
44
4★
4
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
23 reviews
5★
21
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
There are stairs to access first floor at Olveston historic home.
Meeting point
If you are not cruise ship passengers, please meet our tour guide at the Octagon, outside Dunedin Visitor centre at 9am
About Port Chalmers
Port Chalmers is a historic port town on the Otago Peninsula in New Zealand's South Island. Known for its charming Victorian architecture, rich maritime history, and stunning coastal scenery, it offers a peaceful yet culturally vibrant experience just a short drive from Dunedin.
Top Attractions
Port Chalmers Historic Walk
This self-guided walk takes you through the town's historic sites, including Victorian architecture, maritime history, and significant landmarks.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula offers stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and hiking opportunities. It's home to the world's only mainland royal albatross colony.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Port Chalmers Maritime Museum
This small museum showcases the town's rich maritime history, with exhibits on shipping, whaling, and local heritage.
Museum
30-60 minutes
Free or donation-based
Must-Try Local Dishes
Whitebait Fritters
A traditional New Zealand dish made with whitebait, a small type of fish, mixed with egg and cooked in a fritter.
Appetizer
Contains fish and eggs
Seafood Chowder
A hearty soup made with a variety of local seafood, such as fish, mussels, and crab, in a creamy broth.
Soup
Contains seafood and dairy
Lamb Rack
A tender rack of lamb, often served with a mint sauce or red wine reduction, a classic New Zealand dish.
Main Course
Contains lamb
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Wildlife Viewing
Beachcombing
Picnicking
Waterfront Dining
Exploring Historic Sites
Visiting Museums
Best Time to Visit
Summer (December to February)
Summer is the best time to visit Port Chalmers, offering warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the coastal areas.
15-20°C
59-68°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: Very safe
Port Chalmers is a very safe town with low crime rates. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night
- • Stay informed about weather conditions
Getting there
By air
- Dunedin International Airport • 25 km from Port Chalmers
By bus
Dunedin Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available for travel between Port Chalmers and Dunedin, but within the town, walking is the best option.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No specific apps, but taxis can be booked by phone
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Waterfront
Day trips
Dunedin
20 km from Port Chalmers • Half day to full day
Dunedin is a vibrant university city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a variety of cultural attractions.
Moeraki Boulders
50 km from Port Chalmers • Half day
The Moeraki Boulders are large, spherical boulders found on a stretch of Koekohe Beach. They are a unique geological feature and a popular tourist attraction.
Festivals
Port Chalmers Music Festival • Annual, typically held in February
Otago Peninsula Festival of the Arts • Annual, typically held in November
Pro tips
- Visit the Port Chalmers Maritime Museum for a deeper understanding of the town's history
- Explore the Otago Peninsula for stunning coastal scenery and wildlife viewing
- Enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant for beautiful views and fresh seafood
- Pick up a map of the historic walk from the local information center
- Check the opening hours of attractions and museums before visiting
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
