Dunedin’s Historic Charm & Wild Wonders (Part 2)
Nestled on NZ’s east coast, Dunedin is a Scottish-flavored time capsule 🏴, founded in 1848 and later shaped by gold rush dreams (yes, Chinese miners too!). Beyond its rich past, it’s a haven for wildlife and jaw-dropping landscapes. 📍 Must-See Stops (South/Central Dunedin) ⛪ First Church of Otago Free visitor parking on left! 56m Gothic spire, lavish interiors (1862). 🛑 The Octagon 5min walk from the church—hub of heritage buildings & cafés. 🚂 Dunedin Railway Station Flemish Renaissance beauty (currently under scaffolding 😢). 🏛️ Toitu Otago Settlers Museum Free entry! 3min from the station—unravel Māori & pioneer tales. 🌊 Tunnel Beach Walk 30min downhill hike to a secret cove—epic photo ops! 🌄 Highcliff View Point Pitstop en route to the castle for panoramic peninsula views. 🏰 Larnach Castle NZ’s ONLY castle (1871)! Tickets: $39 (castle+garden) / $19.5 (garden only). Pro tip: Grab their house-made whisky at the gift shop! 🦭 Sandfly Bay 40min walk through pastures to a seal/penquin-dotted beach (keep 10m distance!). 🏖️ Allan’s Beach Hidden gem—spot rare white sea lions! (Hop two wooden gates to reach the shore.) 🐧 Royal Albatross Centre Clifftop views + educational exhibits (free postcards if you’re lucky!). 💡 Insider Tips Parking: All spots are Google Maps-friendly. Wildlife: Dawn/dusk = best penguin sightings! Castle hack: Visit the garden first—it’s cheaper and just as photogenic. #DunedinUnlocked #NZHistory #WildlifeEncounters #OffTheBeatenPath #SouthIslandMagic