Dunedin is one of the most culturally diverse and vibrant cities in New Zealand with the great combination of a work/life balance and stunning local nature. It’s a city that is big enough to be busy yet small enough to get around quickly with minimal traffic jams, making it one of the better cities to enjoy life without being drained from the commute.
Considered the first great early city of New Zealand, Dunedin came to prominence during the gold rush area of the 1860s where the discovery of gold saw thousands of people move to the Central Otago province era in search of riches, people from across the country and also from around the world.
Because of the diverse migrant history from different cultures, Dunedin has a rich multi-cultural history that is unique in New Zealand. There are strong Scottish, Māori, and Chinese roots in Dunedin dating back to the early settler period. In the 18th century, migration was in full swing in New Zealand, especially in Otago where migration was occurring from the United Kingdom, and later on from China where several thousand men came to Otago for the gold rush, trying to earn their riches to send back home to their families.
The name Dunedin is derived from Dùn Èideann, the Scottish Gaelic name for Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Walking around the city centre, you can see Scottish Edinburgh influences in the architecture of some buildings. Dunedin is also known as Ōtepoti in Māori.
The second largest city in the South Island (after Christchurch), Dunedin is a student city thanks to the University of Otago (New Zealand’s oldest university) and Otago Polytechnic. Every year the city swells up by around 20,000 students coming to study at the tertiary institutions. The youthful students add more vibrancy to an already colourful city.
There are plenty of amazing restaurants and cafes to suit every budget, along with a good nightlife. If you love fantastic street art, you’ll find it here scattered across Dunedin created by talented local and international artists.
More into nature? Dunedin has you covered with relaxing beaches and nature walks across beautiful landscapes.
You can spend between three to five days exploring Dunedin and surrounding areas.
The best way to explore this city is by foot so let’s get out there and explore Dunedin!
Key Information
I would recommend:
Getting a Bee bus card
Walking is great, especially around the Dunedin city centre. To see or do things beyond the centre (and save some time walking), consider getting a Bee card to use the local bus services within Dunedin and surrounding towns like Mosgiel. It’s the most affordable transport option in Dunedin.
It costs $5 to get the physical Bee card (plus top up credit). You can get a Bee card from the following locations:
- Otago Regional Council offices at 70 Stafford Street or Level 2, 144 Rattray Street, Philip Laing House
- Dunedin City Council Customer Service Centres
- University Book Shop
Remember to tag on AND off with your Bee card.
Dunedin has a reputation of being a freezing city with images of cold students wearing layers of thick clothing in their poorly insulated flats. It can be unforgiving during winter but it makes up for it during beautiful summers (when it happens!).
The below table represents the average weather in Dunedin, New Zealand.
| Season | Average Max temp (°C) | Average Min temp (°C) | General clothing information |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18°C | 11°C | The days are warm and nights can be cool. Thin layers are important. Always take a jacket for those unexpected cooler nights. If you’re exploring the great outdoors nearby, bring additional layers in case of unexpected cold weather (especially rain and wind). | |
| 16°C | 10°C | The days and nights are much cooler. Layering is still important. | |
| 8°C | 4°C | It is recommended to wear layers with a thick coat or puffer jacket, along with light thermal undergarments. Wearing a beanie and gloves are recommended. Mornings can be frosty so dress accordingly. It can snow in Dunedin during winter as well. | |
| 14°C | 8°C | It is getting gradually warmer but rains can be prevalent. Always take a jacket for those unexpected cold nights. |
Learn more about the weather:
Average weather in Dunedin