Highlights of Dunedin
Duration: 4 hours
Tour Code: dud-002
Price:
$99.00 per person
Free
Set at one end of a beautiful natural harbor lays the elegant city of Dunedin. Known for being home to some of the country's most glorious Victorian structures, its streets are adorned with a remarkable collection of historic buildings, cathedrals and churches that serve to attract visitors from around the world. Recognized as the nation's earliest seat of learning, it was the efforts of the area's early European settlers that were instrumental in establishing the country's commercial wealth.
Your tour begins with a picturesque drive past the charming towns of Sawyer's Bay, Roseneath and St. Leonard's, which all rest along the shores of beautiful Otago Harbor. Making your way into the city, your first stop is at Olveston, a Jacobean-styled house made of doublebrick, faced with Oamaru stone and Moeraki gravel. Set in an acre of land that is sheltered by stately trees, this graceful and unique home that was built between 1904 and 1906 offers a true glimpse into the refined way of life in days past and holds 35 rooms within its 3 stories and basement.
Departing from Olveston, your tour continues on through the city, passing several historical landmarks including the Gothic revival-styled Otago University, the Law Courts, Otago Boys High School and First Church, the Edwardian mansions of Royal Terrace and High Streets, and the Greek revival-styled ANZ Bank.
Your last stop will be at the Botanical Gardens. Located at the northern end of the city, the Gardens cover some 69 acres and were the first public botanical gardens to be established in New Zealand. Set amongst well-manicured lawns, splashing fountains and statuary, you'll find an extensive collection of camellias, annuals and herbaceous borders along with a garden of fragrant and colorful roses. The Winter Garden Glasshouse has a great range of temperate species on display and there is also a substantial rock garden to be found. Free time is provided for you to fully explore the Gardens on your own and local guides are on hand to answer any questions you may have. Perhaps you'll want to engage in feeding some of the ducks, a popular activity for visitors to the Gardens and duck feed will be available at the Information Center.
At the conclusion of your visit, your coach will return you to the pier, traveling via the city center. Guests may elect to be dropped off here and catch a shuttle back to the ship at their leisure.
Please note: Comfortable walking shoes and a light raincoat are recommended. The order of the sites visited may vary. This tour does not operate with a separate guide, but rather with a driver/guide.