#dunedin peninsula

[sitting-on-me-bum]

"Aurora Flame"

Dunedin Peninsula, New Zealand

By Richard Zheng

Capture the Atlas - Northern Lights Photographer of the Year

[jeanhm]

Dunedin, Otago Peninsula and Royal Albatross

Combining 2 days into one here as we have spent two days in and around Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula and been down the edge of Otago harbour on both sides enjoying the lovely views of what must have been a caldera at one stage that formed the harbour. Our first visit was to the end of the main peninsula as we booked to see Royal Albatross chicks at the Royal Albatross centre. ON the way we stopped at Portobello to watch some noisy sea lions on the beach, much bigger than the fur seals we have been seeing mainly to date. At the centre we saw 4 chicks all about 3 months old sitting patiently waiting for their parents to return with food. at we left we did see several adults flying and whilst it would have been good to see the chicks and adults reunited the tickets were timed visits so we missed out on that.

Whilst in Dunedin, which is a scottish setttlement and the name Dunedin comes from the Gaelic for Edinburgh, we went to the Pioneer viewpoint over the harbour bay where there is a peice of rock from Edinburgh Castle and also to the world steepest street, Baldwin Street though we didn't try to walk up it. If you did you actually can get a certificate for doing so!

On our second visit we went to the other side of the harbour and round to Port Chalmers and to the sea wall where we walked out again to see more sea lions. We also found a monument to Scott and his colleagues to commemorate their Antarctic explorations. we had some more fantastic views over beaches and cliffs around Purakaunui and Waitati. Loved Dunedin, well worth a visit.

[catinatux]

Cone in the cloud in Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand 

📸 by David Steer

[markandtrish]

Sunday November 17th

Dunedin

A leisurely start to the day and a cooked breakfast to get us going before setting off to Baldwin Street, the steepest residential street in the world. It didn’t look too bad at first but that was deceptive.

After a walk, part of the way up we decided to head to the botanic gardens. Really beautiful with all the spring flowers, azaleas, rhododendrons and many more which seemed strange to see knowing it was cold at home. We also walked round the aviary which had many parrots and parakeets, along with injured birds and some breeding kakas whose chicks they are planning to reintroduce to the wild.

A trip back to our flat for a late lunch of lamb chops and salad before heading out to the Otago peninsula. It was a windy drive of about an hour to get to the tip of the peninsula where the albatross centre is. It’s the home to many royal albatrosses, the only mainland breeding colony. We watched these beautiful birds soaring around among the gulls and also saw the breeding colonies of the red billed gulls, vey noisy and smelly.

The main point of our trip was to see the blue penguins, the smallest species of penguin. They come ashore to their burrows and chicks every night at dusk after spending the whole day at sea feeding. There was a viewing platform set up and the penguins are not at all bothered by all the people.

It was amazing to see all these penguins coming ashore in big groups, starting off slowly and cautiously and then when they've realised the coast is clear, waddling up the beach as fast as possible and passing within a foot of us. Far noisier than we'd imagined and another magical experience from this holiday.

[tours2go]

You will be joining a small group tour and go to places that bigger buses cannot go. You will have personalised attention and will see the most special parts of Dunedin and Otago peninsula. #Tours2Go #ToursToGo

[projectourworld]

A sea lion yawns on Sandfly Bay beach in the Otago peninsula on the outskirts of Dunedin, New Zealand. The New Zealand sea lion is one of rarest species of sea lion and is listed as endangered in the IUCN Red List of threatened species

Photograph: Sanka Vidanagama/AFP/Getty Images

[nzetaonlinevisa]

Top 5 Places to visit in june new zealand

Christchurch, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its English heritage and vibrant cultural scene. This picturesque city, known as the “Garden City,” boasts an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. Among the top places to see in Christchurch are the stunning Botanic Gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat with a variety of plant species and beautifully landscaped grounds.

The Christchurch Art Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive collection of national and international works. For a glimpse into the city’s history, the Canterbury Museum provides fascinating exhibits on natural history and cultural heritage.

Hagley Park, the city’s largest urban open space, is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and sports activities. The iconic Avon River, which meanders through the city, offers punting tours that provide a unique perspective of Christchurch’s scenic beauty.

Quake City, an interactive museum, educates visitors about the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that significantly impacted the region. Additionally, the innovative and colorful Cardboard Cathedral stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and creativity. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled between rolling hills and a picturesque harbor. Known for its dynamic arts scene, Wellington boasts a plethora of museums, theaters, and galleries that showcase both contemporary and traditional works. One of the must-visit places to see in Wellington is the iconic Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum that offers interactive exhibits and rich Maori cultural displays. Another highlight is the Wellington Cable Car, which provides panoramic views of the city and leads to the beautiful Botanic Garden, a serene escape from the urban bustle. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Dunedin, located on the southeast coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its Scottish heritage, Dunedin boasts a unique blend of Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Among the top places to see in Dunedin is the iconic Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand, offering stunning views and lush gardens. The Otago Peninsula is another must-visit, famous for its diverse wildlife, including albatrosses, sea lions, and rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Dunedin’s city center is home to the historic Dunedin Railway Station, often dubbed the most photographed building in the country, and the bustling Octagon, a central plaza surrounded by shops, cafes, and the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of national and international artworks. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Wanaka, a picturesque town in New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant outdoor activities. Nestled at the southern end of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by majestic mountains, it offers an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Among the must-visit places to see in Wanaka is the iconic Wanaka Tree, a solitary willow that stands in the lake, providing a perfect photo opportunity.

Visitors can explore the pristine beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ideal for hiking, climbing, and spotting diverse wildlife. Roys Peak offers a challenging trek with rewarding panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For those interested in more leisurely activities, Puzzling World, with its quirky illusions and maze, provides fun for all ages. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Fox Glacier, located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, is a stunning natural wonder that draws visitors from around the world. Known for its breathtaking ice formations and dynamic landscape, Fox Glacier descends from the Southern Alps down into the temperate rainforest, creating a unique juxtaposition of ice and greenery.

One of the prime places to see in Fox Glacier is the glacier itself, which can be explored through guided tours offering a closer look at the crevasses and ice caves. Visitors can also experience scenic helicopter flights that provide a bird’s-eye view of the glacier and the surrounding mountains.

Lake Matheson is another must-visit spot near Fox Glacier. Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, the lake offers picturesque walking trails and stunning photography opportunities. Additionally, the Fox Glacier Valley Walk provides a relatively easy hike with dramatic views of the glacier’s terminal face.

For those seeking more adventure, the nearby Gillespies Beach offers rugged coastline and the chance to explore historic gold mining sites. With its diverse range of attractions, Fox Glacier is a captivating destination, making it one of the top places to see in New Zealand. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

[52paddlesblog]

PADDLE #4

21.01.24

Portobello, Dunedin, Otago

Log: Launched from Portobello and paddled inland to Pudding Island. Around the island then back across Portobello to the peninsula-within-a-peninsula, leisurely floating past various small bays up to the university research centre. Didn't go much further than that due to the wind, turned about and headed sedately back to Portobello for coffee and lunch.

Highlights: saw a tern feeding a tiny fish to its baby!

Stingray count: 2

Rating: 8/10

[travopo]

Fun Things to Do in Dunedin and The Otago Peninsula | Travel Guide (2023) | Best Places to Visit

[gretavdr]

Dunedin

Dunedin from the Otago Peninsula The trip from Te Anau to Dunedin took us over the Canterbury plains and New Zealand’s rich pastoral country. It’s not a long drive, with a brief stop for coffee somewhere, and we arrived in Dunedin around lunch time. Dunedin is a pretty little town where you’re either going up or you’re coming down. It’s probably the most Scottishest town outside Scotland and it…

[livesunique]

Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

[ellie-lucy]

part of a project I’m working on - these are illustrations of Dunedin’s Larnach Castle and its beautiful gardens

watercolour, A4, april 2020

[ellies-sketchbook]

part of a project I’m working on - illustrations of Dunedin’s Larnach Castle and its lovely gardens

watercolour, A4, april 2020

[thekentmonologues]

The New Zealand fur seal is actually a sea lion having a pointed nose, white whiskers and two layers of dark brown fur. They are quite rare and rather shy compared to their Galapagos cousins.

[lahilden]

Larnach Castle

Larnach Castle is located on the ridge of the Otago Peninsula in Dunedin, New Zealand. Entrepreneur and politician, William Larnach, built the Gothic Revival castle in 1871. After William’s death, the following legal battles over his will had the Larnach family selling the home in 1906. During the 20thcentury, the property changed hands numerous times and underwent updates, but by 1967 the castle was in poor condition. The castle had been used as an insane asylum, a hospital for shell-shocked soldiers, and a nuns’ retreat. The castle was then purchased by the Barker family, who restored the castle, added the award-winning gardens, and retrieved some of the original period furnishings for the home. The forty-three-room castle boasts exposed verandahs, a 3,000 square foot ballroom, and intricately carved ceilings, which took years to complete. The castle sits on 35 acres, which includes a variety of gardens, a stable with six guest rooms, and a lodge that has twelve themed rooms. Larnach Castle serves as a tourist attraction and is open to the public for tours, events, and weddings. The castle offers a gift shop, a café, and beautiful tower views.

[its-time-to-travel-now]

On a 45 minute drive from the city of Dunedin on New Zealands’ South Island, an Albatros nesting colony can be visited with a guide. 

This specific Albatros colony is so special because it is the only Royal Albatros colony in the world that is located on the mainland and is definitly worth a visit if you’re ever in New Zealand and would like to know more about these giant birds. 

More info on the Royal Albatros in New Zealand here.