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Standing high above Otago Harbour, Larnach Castle looks as though it belongs in the Scottish Highlands rather than on the Otago Peninsula. Its tower rises above 35 acres of gardens, while its verandahs overlook the harbour, Dunedin, the surrounding countryside and the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, it is easy to understand why William Larnach chose this extraordinary location for his family home. However, Larnach Castle is much more than a beautiful building. Its history is a

Most visitors who huff their way up Baldwin Street assume its title is old news—a record set once, decades ago, and never seriously challenged. In fact, Dunedin first took the title from San Francisco, later lost it to Wales, fought to get it back and won because of a measurement rule most people had never considered. It is one of the better small-city rivalry stories in the world. How Dunedin took the title from San Francisco The story began in the 1980s when Dunedin broadca

Dunedin doesn't have a single wildlife "season" the way some destinations do — something is always happening on the Otago Peninsula. But if you're planning a trip and want to know what you'll actually see when you get here, this is the guide we wish more visitors read before they booked. Here's what's going on, season by season. Spring (September–November): the colony fills back up This is when Dunedin's wildlife calendar effectively resets. Royal albatross that have spent th

Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Discover the rich Scottish heritage, colonial history, and iconic landmarks that make this city unlike anywhere else in New Zealand.

Watch little blue penguins (kororā) return to their nesting burrows at sunset on the Otago Peninsula — one of New Zealand's most magical wildlife experiences. Join Fantail Tours for an unforgettable evening tour from Dunedin.

Dunedin isn’t the kind of place that shouts for attention — it quietly wins you over. Tucked into the southeastern corner of New Zealand’s South Island, this coastal city blends dramatic landscapes, rare wildlife, rich history, and a relaxed, authentic vibe that’s increasingly hard to find. A City with Character Often called the “Edinburgh of the South,” Dunedin’s Scottish heritage is woven into its architecture, street names, and atmosphere. You’ll find grand historic buildi

In 2017, Dunedin was officially awarded the title of New Zealand’s most beautiful city —and it’s easy to see why. This isn’t just about breathtaking scenery; it’s about a city where residents take pride in keeping their streets clean, preserving historic buildings, and celebrating their heritage. As the oldest city in New Zealand , Dunedin is full of “firsts” and unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. 🏛️ A Rich Heritage Dunedin is a city steeped

Your ship enters Otago Harbour, passing green hills, small bays and the narrow entrance between Taiaroa Head and Aramoana. By the time you arrive at Port Chalmers, you have only one day to discover Dunedin. The challenge is not finding enough to do. It is choosing between the city’s history, the landscapes of the Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle and some of New Zealand’s rarest wildlife—while still returning to your ship with a comfortable safety margin. At Fantail Tours, we h

There is a moment in Dunedin’s Upper Botanic Garden when the city seems to disappear. The traffic becomes distant, the air feels cooler and the path enters a world of enormous leaves, twisting branches and flowers growing high above your head. Rhododendrons that many visitors know as tidy garden shrubs have become trees. Giant lilies rise like floral towers from the woodland, while old pines form a canopy far overhead. It feels less like walking through a city garden and more

Discover the best of Dunedin with its mix of history, wildlife, and stunning scenery. See Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest street, the iconic Railway Station, and Olveston Historic Home. Explore the Botanic Garden, Otago Peninsula albatross and penguin colonies, and relax at St Clair saltwater pool. Don’t miss the vibrant Otago Farmers Market or New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle—perfect for first-time visitors seeking culture, nature, and adventure.