What do I need to wear or bring

We recommend you to wear or bring:JacketSolid FootwearBottle Of WaterCamera – to record the experience!

Baldwin Street – the world’s steepest street!Signal Hill LookoutDunedin Railway StationUniversity Of OtagoLarnach Castle – New Zealand’s only castle (entry to grounds included; castle entry optional)Lunch – available at the Ballroom Cafe (own cost)The OPERA (formerly known as “Penguin Place”) – learn about the endangered yellow-eyed penguins, visit the Penguin Rehabilitation Centre (when penguins are present), and experience a guided tour through the reserve which is home to numerous native plants and animalsDiscover Estuaries, Native Forests & View White Sand BeachesStunning Peninsula Views – including sheep farms and excellent photo spotsWe offer convenient pick-up and drop-off services at your accommodation, cruise ship, or the information centre in the Octagon!

Adult: 15 years +Children: 5-14 yearsInfant: 0-4 years

Overview Itinerary FAQs Departure Dates Book now

Mainland Peninsula Tour from Dunedin

South Island

Tourworks

from

NZ$300

per adult

Book Now

Secluded beach at Ōpērā Eco Reserve, home to rare yellow-eyed penguins on the Otago Peninsula.

Experiences

Shore Excursions

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Dunedin

Duration: 6.5 Hours

Explore Dunedin’s Historic and Scenic Highlights

Kick off your adventure in Dunedin—a city rich with Victorian and Edwardian charm—starting at iconic landmarks like the ornate Railway Station, stately University of Otago campus, and the steep, quirky Baldwin Street. Glide up to Signal Hill Lookout for sweeping city views and trace the contours of rugged estuaries and coastal valleys as your guide brings local stories to life. This seamless blend of culture and scenery sets the tone for a day where history and the landscape beautifully converge.

Then, journey onward to the storied Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only true castle, nestled atop the Otago Peninsula and surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic harbour views. Explore the extensive grounds and enjoy a treat at the charming Ballroom Café, where aspirations mingle with the altitude and each vista—from manicured lawns to crashing waves—feels like a painting.

Historic Dunedin Railway Station behind the formal hedges of Anzac Square Gardens.

House on Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street, with a sharp incline and blue sky.

Visitors exploring the grand exterior of Larnach Castle on the Otago Peninsula in Dunedin.

Rolling waves at the coastal sanctuary of Penguin Place on the Otago Peninsula, a haven for yellow-eyed penguins.

Yellow-eyed penguin standing upright on sandy ground on the Otago Peninsula.

A New Zealand fur seal resting on the grassy coastline of Otago Peninsula.

A Royal Spoonbill wading through the shallow waters of a Dunedin estuary.

Red-billed gull caring for its chick in the grass near the Dunedin coastline.

A native Pūkeko walking through tall grass in the Dunedin wetlands.

Two Northern Royal Albatrosses soaring above the Otago Peninsula near Dunedin.

Encounter Wildlife and Wild Coastlines at The OPERA and Beyond

The tour continues into the wild heart of the Otago Peninsula with a visit to The OPERA (Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance), a private conservation reserve dedicated to protecting endangered wildlife. Embark on a guided walk through native forests and wetlands, where you may glimpse rare hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins), fur seals, sea lions, and a chorus of native birds, all while supporting meaningful conservation work.

As you wind back toward the city, relish sweeping coastal views, white sandy beaches, and rolling sheep farms—inviting plenty of opportunities for photos and reflective appreciation of Dunedin’s natural beauty. This curated experience effortlessly blends heritage, ecology, and scenery into one unforgettable exploration of city life and coastal wilderness.

Baldwin Street – the world’s steepest street!
Signal Hill Lookout
Dunedin Railway Station
University Of Otago
Larnach Castle – New Zealand’s only castle (entry to grounds included; castle entry optional)
Lunch – available at the Ballroom Cafe (own cost)
The OPERA (formerly known as “Penguin Place”) – learn about the endangered yellow-eyed penguins, visit the Penguin Rehabilitation Centre (when penguins are present), and experience a guided tour through the reserve which is home to numerous native plants and animals
Discover Estuaries, Native Forests & View White Sand Beaches
Stunning Peninsula Views – including sheep farms and excellent photo spots

We offer convenient pick-up and drop-off services at your accommodation, cruise ship, or the information centre in the Octagon!

Adult: 15 years +
Children: 5-14 years
Infant: 0-4 years

7 days or more before travel: Full refund**
1-7 days before travel: 50% refund**
Within 24 hours of travel: No refund.
In the event that your Cruise Ship can't dock, you'll receive a full refund**

*Note: Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Dunedin Railway Station
Start your day at the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. With its striking architecture and vibrant flower gardens, it’s a perfect spot to begin your journey.

University of Otago
Next, explore the beautiful University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest university. Stroll through its historic campus, which is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and peaceful setting along the Water of Leith.

Baldwin Street – The World’s Steepest Street!
Challenge yourself with a visit to Baldwin Street, officially recognised as the steepest street in the world. Take a quick walk or just admire it from the base – either way, it’s a must-see when visiting Dunedin.

Signal Hill Lookout
Head up to Signal Hill for panoramic views over Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. This lookout offers breathtaking vistas of the city, harbour, and surrounding landscapes – a perfect opportunity for memorable photos.

Larnach Castle – New Zealand’s Only Castle
Discover the grandeur of Larnach Castle, set amidst beautiful gardens on the Otago Peninsula. You’ll have entry to the castle grounds, where you can explore the lush surroundings and soak in the history. If you're keen, entry to the castle itself is available for an additional cost. Enjoy lunch at the charming Ballroom Café on-site (at your own expense), offering delicious local fare in an elegant setting.

The OPERA (Otago Peninsula Endangered Species Reserve)
Formerly known as Penguin Place, this reserve offers a unique chance to learn about New Zealand’s endangered wildlife. During your visit, you’ll be taken on a guided tour through the habitat of the rare yellow-eyed penguins, where you can witness their rehabilitation efforts firsthand. You’ll also explore the reserve’s native plant and animal life, making this a truly immersive experience.

Royal Albatross Centre
Stop by the Royal Albatross Visitor Centre, where you can catch a glimpse of these magnificent seabirds. The centre is free to enter and offers insights into the life and conservation of the royal albatross – the only species of albatross to breed on a mainland site.

Estuaries, Native Forests, and White Sand Beaches
Journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Otago Peninsula, where you’ll discover serene estuaries, lush native forests, and pristine white sand beaches. This is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and appreciate the untouched beauty of New Zealand's South Island.

Stunning Peninsula Views
As you travel, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Otago Peninsula’s rolling hills, coastal scenery, and the occasional sheep farm. Keep your camera ready as this area is filled with excellent photo spots that capture the essence of New Zealand’s rural beauty.

Convenient Pick-Up and Drop-Off

We offer hassle-free pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation, cruise ship, or the information centre located at the Octagon, ensuring your day is stress-free and enjoyable from start to finish.