Overview Dunedin is the second-largest city in the south island of New Zealand, and has the fifth-largest population in all of New Zealand. Cruise ships actually dock in Port Chalmers, which is a suburb of Dunedin (considered a separate town by many).
The locals in Dunedin are quite friendly, and there is a pretty lively feel about this clean city. Among the many things to do while in Dunedin are walking around the city centre to enjoying the various restaurants, bars and cafes, as well as touring this city's many historic buildings.
As far as temperature goes, Dunedin has warm summers and cool winters. There's relatively low rainfall in Dunedin, compared to much of New Zealand.
Destinations Dunedin is included on several Australia & New Zealand cruise itineraries.
Cruise Lines Departing Here
Dunedin is not a cruise departure port.
Currency The official currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Using a credit card whenever possible is a great way to avoid having to exchange currency. ATM machines are available, but make sure you use one that works with the card you're using.
Language The official languages of New Zealand are English and Māori (which is actually only spoken by a small minority in the population). Samoan is a non-official language spoken by an even smaller minority.
Tourist Attractions Dunedin is a pretty easy city to get around. The city centre is a square that's named The Octagon, with George Street (the city's main street) running through it. On George Street has many restaurants (some which feature open-air dining in good weather), bars, cafes and shops. Also in the Octagon are many of Dunedin's most important buildings, such as the Regent Theatre (Dunedin's largest live theatre, which was originally a cinema that opened in 1928), Dunedin Public Art Gallery (the first public art gallery in New Zealand, founded in 1884), the Dunedin Public Library and St. Paul's Cathedral (the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Dunedin).
Larnach Castle is located (about 10 km from the city centre) on the ridge of Otago Peninsula, and is one of only two castles in all of New Zealand. It was originally built between 1873 and 1887, and was restored during the 1990s. Aside from its beauty and history, this castle offers its guests fabulous views of the Otago Peninsula and Harbour.
OIveston is a large (35 room) house that was built between 1904 and 1907. This grand house attracts many visitors each year, as it has a wonderful collection of historic pieces (including various art, ceramics and furniture), as well as the very interesting architecture.
Dunedin Railway Station is one of the most well known buildings in all of New Zealand. Designed by George Troup, it's considered a true architectural work of art. Right outside the station you can find Anzac Square, which leads to Logan Park.
Port Location The cruise pier is located at Port Chalmers, in a suburb of Dunedin (about 15 km from Dunedin's city centre). It's about a 15 minute drive from the pier to the city centre, and there's a shuttle bus service available (with a nominal fee) to take tourists back and forth.
