The
Otago coast stretches from the Waitaki River to the mighty Clutha
River, on the South Island's eastern coast. About halfway between
is the city of Dunedin New Zealand, the South Island's second largest
city.
Dunedin New Zealand was founded on the picks, harpoons and hard
toil of goldminers, whalers and early Scottish settlers over 150
years ago. Much of Dunedin's early wealth and enterprise has left
a tangible mark on the city today. Its name is the old Gaelic one
for Edinburgh - appropriate since the city was established by Scottish
Presbyterians.
The city is renowned for its proximity to incredible wildlife. Visits
to see the world's rarest penguins, the world's only mainland breeding
colony of the Royal albatross and rare New Zealand sealions are
all possible within a short drive of the city centre.
Dunedin is also memorable for its historical architecture. It is
regarded to be one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian
cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Look for the massive stone Flemish
Renaissance-style Dunedin Railway Station, the University clock-tower
building and the Gothic Revival Dominican Priory. Dunedin even has
an authentic castle - Larnach Castle was the grand home of an early
politician. You might also want to visit Baldwin Street, the world’s
steepest residential address.
It’s easy to learn about things in Dunedin. Apart from being New
Zealand’s first university city, it has an abundance of museums,
galleries and heritage homes with amazing stories to tell. You can
even discover the history of beer brewing at the Speights Brewery.
Dunedin offers all the facilities you would expect within a modern,
thriving city, without the traffic jams and parking problems! Daily
life is vibrant, positive and upbeat. Cafes, restaurants and bars
compete for space with a fabulous mix of shops and entertainment
venues.
Main
Centres in Dunedin and Otago
Dunedin - the main city in the Otago region
Oamaru - famous for its historical white stone architecture
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