Private Guided Tour of Dunedin City Heritage and Unique Wildlife and Scenery

Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula , New Zealand

Private Guided Tour of Dunedin City Heritage and Unique Wildlife and Scenery

Active

(33 reviews)

5h - 7h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy Dunedin on a private tour, tailored just for your group of up to 6 passengers. A knowledgeable driver - guide will show you the best spots in Dunedin in a comfortable van. You will be very flexible and can spend any amount of time at all the stops.

There is an option fo a bigger group too.

Scenic drive through the city and on Otago Peninsula to view the most breathtaking views. You will enjoy a stop at Royal Albatross Centre (about 1 hour), the world's only mainland colony of Royal Albatross. Here you have the option to either take lunch, explore the visitor center or wander outside (since it's generally pretty windy, you are likely to see flying the largest seabirds!) Then, take a scenic drive back to Port via Portobello Road, along the harbor, where you are likely to see wading birds. You will have a great choice to create a memorable tour to suit your interests.

Available options

Private Tour 1-6 pax

A private tour for a group of up to 6 passengers

Private tour (7-19 pax)

Private tour for a group of up to 19 passengers<br/>Toyota Coaster mini bus

What's included

Private tour

Bottled water

Driver/guide

Fuel surcharge

Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

Transport by private vehicle/ air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will have a chance to walk up the world’s steepest street, or just take a photo of it.

Stop 2

A short stop to enjoy panorama of Dunedin City and surroundings on Signal Hill

At your choice you can choose to have a guided stroll at the upper Botanic garden to view bird aviaries with New Zealand native birds and some birds form different parts of the world and view a variety plants depending on the season

Drive through one of the oldest cemeteries of Dunedin, where some famous people of the area are buried and learn about Thomas Bracken and WIliam Larnach

Have a short stop at the oldest university of New Zealand and hear how important it is to Dunedin City

Stop 6

There is a possibility to join a 1 hour guided tour of the historic home of the Olveston at the extra cost of NZD23 per person.

Visit one of the finest churches of New Zealand - First Church of Otago

Stop to marvel tone of the most photographed building of New Zealand.

Stop 9

You can choose to stop to explore Larnach Castle and the gardens or only the gardens and take pictures of the castle outside. Extra fee for the castle and gardens applies.

Stop 10

At the end of the Peninsula, there is Albatross Centre which has free entry to look at displays about wildlife, grab some drinks and snack at the cafe, use toilets, browse souvenir shop.

Stop 11

You can choose to have free time at albatross centre or join a 1 hour guided tour which is NZD55 per person. During one hour guided tour you will hear all about Royal Albatross, watch a short movie, walk up the hill to the viewing platform to view albatross nesting area

Stop 12

While on Otago Peninsula you have a choice to join one of the wildlife tours - a guided walking tour of Penguin Place, NZD55 per person

Otago Peninsula drive offers the most breathtaking scenery via both, Highcliff and Portobello roads. It is about one hour drive one way from the city to the end of the peninsula

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

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 6 people per booking or a bigger group of 11

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Comfortable walking shoes, wind and water proof jacket are recommended

Meeting point

Cruise ship passengers are meeting Fantail Tours guide at Port Chalmers cruise terminal, private tour waiting area, between door 1 and 2 at 9am.

Important notes

• If you are being picked up at Port Chalmers in Dunedin, your guide will meet you at 9am, at Port Chalmers cruise terminal, private tour waiting area, door 2.
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Comfortable walking shoes, wind and water proof jacket
• Not wheelchair accessible

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