Dunedin | I Don't Recommend Driving from Queenstown

Unless... you're obsessed with nature! 🌿 🚗 The Scenic Detour Worth Taking Instead of the direct route, I took Highway 8 via Cromwell → Highway 1, stopping at every lookout point. What’s meant to be a 3h40m drive became 5+ hours—but the views were so worth it. (And trust me, these barely scratch the surface!) 🌊 Must-Stop Nature Gems 1️⃣ Tunnel Beach "NZ’s answer to the White Cliffs of Dover!" 🇬🇧🏴 Finally healed my UK-study-abroad FOMO. 2️⃣ Sandfly Bay Wildlife Reserve Wild sea lions 🦭 + crashing waves = pure drama! But heed these warnings: 🚨 Stay far back—they’re faster/noisier than you’d think! 👟 Wear hiking boots (wind + sand = brutal). ❄️ Layer up! Coastal gales are next-level cold. 🏡 The Airbnb That Stole My Heart 🔍 "Scandinavian-style modern rural barn getaway" by Mandy ✨ Why it’s magic: Floor-to-ceiling windows + loft vibes 🌌 Freebies: Eggs, fruit, chips… even tampons and umbrellas! Private lakeside trail for golden-hour walks 🌅 Sheep, horses, and cows greeting you at dawn 🐑🐎 (but zero noise inside!) Best stargazing of our trip 💫 (my kid saw a shooting star!) 💡 Perfect if you: Want to unplug (it’s 7min from downtown). Prefer cozy nights in over crowded attractions. 🍪 Real Talk About Dunedin 🏙️ Feels British… but tbh, skip the "must-sees" unless you’re really into architecture. 🛍️ Cookie Time alert: Fewer flavors than Queenstown—grab souvenirs there instead! Final Verdict: This city’s true charm? Slowing down. We barely left our Airbnb—and zero regrets. #DunedinDiaries #NZRoadTrip #HiddenGems #StargazingNZ #TravelSlow #AirbnbGold