If you’re looking to take a family holiday, mini-break, or even just a weekend away in Dunedin, we’ve put together some of our favourite places to stay, eat, and play so you can create wonderful memories with your family.
Dunedin and its surrounds offer a captivating blend of wild beauty and rich history, where dramatic coastlines meet striking heritage streets. Here, ornate Gothic architecture sits comfortably alongside rugged natural landscapes, creating a destination that feels both atmospheric and a little unexpected. It’s a place where urban character and untamed scenery come together in a way that’s entirely its own.
Please note: Venue information was correct at the time of publication. Please check with individual venues for the latest opening dates, times, prices, etc, before making plans.
Top family highlights
Blue Penguins Pukekura
Every evening, kororā (the world’s smallest penguin), come out of the sea and head off to their burrows for the night. Watch from a purpose-built observation deck as kororā scurry up the beach and head to bed. Join a tour and learn all about these wee cuties.
Lan Yuan, Dunedin Chinese Garden
From a desire to celebrate the city’s Chinese heritage and its valuable sister city relationship with Shanghai comes this perfect miniature of a traditional Chinese landscape painting. Capturing the essence of nature, every season brings unexpected surprises.
Royal Albatross Centre
Home to the world’s only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony, these seabirds are the world’s largest. Visit the Centre and select from a range of tours of the colony and area. The chicks hatch in late February and don’t take their first flight until September, so chances are you will see the fluffy chicks if you visit during this time.
Taieri Gorge Train
All aboard for one of Otago’s most memorable family adventures. Journey through the spectacular Taieri Gorge on a scenic train ride featuring dramatic landscapes, towering viaducts and hand-carved tunnels. Sit back, enjoy the ever-changing views and discover fascinating stories of the region’s history along the way.
Tūhura Otago Museum
Discover a world of wonder at Tūhura Otago Museum. Explore interactive science exhibits, meet tropical butterflies, journey through the stars in the planetarium and uncover fascinating stories from New Zealand and beyond. A fun-filled family day out packed with discovery, learning and adventure.
Rob Roy Dairy
Treat the family to a classic Dunedin favourite at Rob Roy Dairy Designer Desserts. Choose from more than 30 delicious ice cream flavours, along with sundaes, sorbets and real fruit ice cream. Whether you opt for a simple cone or a towering multi-scoop creation, it’s the perfect stop for a sweet holiday treat.
Explorer Guides
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Kids Rate Dunedin!
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Made To Share Nature Experiences In Aotearoa
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Must-do New Zealand Attractions For Under Fives
Destinations
Choose your next adventure!
Main image credit: DunedinNZ
Tūhura Otago Museum image credit: Isabella Harrex Photography
