Dunedin is one of New Zealand’s four main centers. It is the second largest city in the South Island and is coined as the Edinburgh of the South with proud Scottish ancestry. It became the capital of the Otago province in 1852 and upon the discovery of gold in Gabriel’s Gully; people who came from different countries, such as Irish, Italian, Chinese, and German have frequented it.
In 1900, it no longer was the largest country in New Zealand. It began mellowing down and aging in a graceful way that writers and artists began to realize its charm.
Dunedin’s weather is known for occasional snowfalls in the winter, which gradually clears during the day. It has a temperate climate that shows the beauty of Dunedin in all four seasons.
Food and Dining
There are many choices for good food and fine dining in Dunedin. It has bars and pubs that offer a relaxing and atmospheric ambiance that is standard in the area. Restaurants offer a wide range of cuisine ranging from the traditional meals to the contemporary al fresco.
The style and atmosphere of Dunedin restaurants are characterized by the tastiest meals and the most elegant interior designs. Cafés offer a wide range of food selection that caters to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Sights and Activities
Surfing and swimming are among the main attractions in Dunedin. You could also go hiking on Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world.
Places to Visit
1. Cadbury World. It is one of the largest factories in Dunedin, which is run by the Cadbury Chocolate Company. It offers tours for visitors to explore and experience the wonderful world of chocolate and Cadbury’s legacy.
2. Fortune Theatre. A popular repertory theater located in Moray Place, south of Dunedin.
3. The Octagon. The plaza which is the location of some of Dunedin’s important buildings and institutions. Buildings include the St. Paul Cathedral, Dunedin Town Hall, Regent Theatre, and Public Library.
4. The Otago Peninsula. A scenic coastline in Dunedin that showcases the beauty of nature as well as its wildlife. Seals and sea lions usually frequent this area.
5. Dunedin Botanical Garden. A garden with an aviary and offers themed gardens such as the Rhododendron, Azalea, and Rose gardens.
6. Larnach Castle. The only castle in New Zealand. It is basically a manor with a scandalous and tragic history due to the death of its owner, the banker, William Larnach. It has a haunted feel into it and offers a nice collection of local antiques. More than this, its carved ceilings are magnificently created by the best in Europe and it offers a spectacular view of Dunedin, Otago Peninsula, and the Pacific Ocean.