Tailor Made Holidays in Coastal Otago & Southland, New Zealand: Highlights

Discover the heritage architecture in Dunedin

Dunedin was once the wealthiest city in New Zealand, and is home to some of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. Grab a copy of the local guide and choose from two inner city heritage loop walks, leading you to the churches, banks, the priory, gaol and police station, proud reminders of Dunedin’s heritage.

Read more about: Dunedin
 
See the ancient Moeraki Boulders

One of the coast’s most interesting features is the ancient boulders at Moeraki. According to Maori legend these were washed ashore from the waka Araiteuru over 1000 years ago, although the scientific story dates them at over 65 million years old. Layers of calcium built up over the centuries, creating these spherical concretions which have gradually been eroded from the cliffs, and are now nestled in the sands along the Moeraki coastline.

 
Explore rural Stewart and Ulva Islands

Stewart Island sits at the bottom of the South Island and here the pace of life slows down yet another notch. For those who love wildlife a visit to nearby Ulva Island is essential as you will have the opportunity to see rare native birds that no longer inhabit the mainland. If you are lucky you may also catch a glimpse of a kiwi!

Read more about: Stewart & Ulva Islands
 
Explore the Catlins coast

A remote untouched part of New Zealand, the Catlins Coast is perfect for those who love the great outdoors. Many of the roads this far south are unsealed but offer many spots where you can jump out of your car and explore the local flora and fauna on foot. Don't be surprised if you come across sea lions sunning themselves on the beaches!

Read more about: The Catlins
 
See Little Blue Penguins in Oamaru

Little blue penguins are native to New Zealand and Australia, but are particularly great to watch at Oamaru where they clamber up the steep banks to return to their nests just after dark each evening. A viewing platform has been set up to allow you the unique opportunity of observing them as they perform their nightly ritual.

 
Visit the Dunedin Botanical Gardens

Dunedin’s botanic gardens are included as one of New Zealand’s Gardens of National Significance. Enthusiasts would enjoy October in particular, when the rhododendron and azalea dells in the upper gardens are in full bloom, forming a large part of the annual Dunedin Rhododendron Festival. At all times of year the gardens are a delight though, and a pleasant place to take a gentle stroll and unwind.

Read more about: Dunedin
 
Go wildlife spotting on the Otago Peninsula

For those interested in the wildlife that New Zealand has to offer the Otago Peninsula is a must. With a colony of nesting albatross, yellow eyed penuins, little blue penguins, petrels and more, you are spoilt by the birdlife that thrives here. A great way to see it is with a stay at Nisbet Cottage where your host specialises in the birdlife in the area and wakes you up early to see the yellow eyed penguins cross the beach!

Read more about: The Otago Peninsula
 
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