Toitū Otago Settlers Museum is a stunning museum located next to the iconic Dunedin Markets dedicated to recording the social history of the people of Dunedin and those people who live in the greater Otago Region, whose character, culture, technology, art, fashion and transport over a number of  New Zealand’s first great city.

The Toitū Otago Settlers Museum contains 14 individually themed galleries with a number of displays for the people interact with and fascinating stories that describe the region’s rich human history, all the way back from the first settlers to arrive in Dunedin to the present day citizens of this beautiful city. The site also features a genealogy centre for those fascinated with the genetic history of the area.

Perched at the top of the Otago Peninsula sits Larnach Castle styled very in the vain of the castles of old dotted all over Europe. Larnach Castle is the one and only very famous castle in New Zealand – we were a little deprived of castles when they were handing them out at the turn of the 19th century. Larnach Castle was constructed in 1871, join a tour of the famous Dunedin landmark and learn the true story that will spark your interest in all things Victorian.

William Larnach was a politician for whom the castle was built. William’s life was a tragic one. Both of wives died at 38 years old, the first following a stroke, and the second claimed by blood poisoning.  William’s daughter died of typhoid at 21. William then discovered his son was having an affair with his third life and so William in despair took his own life. The castle was a psychiatric hospital during World Wars One and Two, and has now become a stunning place to explore.

The Barker Family restored the castle and the spectacular grounds and now offer a one hour long grand tour, a luxury accommodation option, and two restaurants – known as The Ballroom Cafe, in the historic ballroom, and alternatively an outdoor cafe.

The Royal Albatross Centre offers visitors the ability to see the gigantic and beautiful Royal Albatross in its natural habitat nesting, flying and fishing in its natural habitat on the Otago Peninsula. Visit these beautiful birds after they have completed their journey across the sea flying thousands of kilometres to nest in New Zealand. 

The Albatross living at Harrington Point, Dunedin, are the only mainland breeding colony in the entire world. The Royal Albatross Centre is operated by the Otago Peninsula Trust, New Zealand’s first private charitable conservation trust. Know that a proportion of every ticket sold goes directly towards the care and protection of the Northern Royal Albatross. The Royal Albatross Centre also offer a Blue Penguin Tour which is sure to bring a smile to the faces of everyone in your group.

Purakaunui Bay was a film location for the worldwide smash hit The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.

At Purakaunui Bay you will enjoy a wonderful place to swim when the surf isn’t pumping and an incredible surf spot when the conditions are on. For those who prefer a more relaxed adventure style, there’s a natural hot spring which flows through the sand at the beach. You can dig a hole and enjoy your very own small natural spa pool right on the beach. Purakaunui Bay is 16 kilometres (approximately 10 miles) from Owaka, the closest town, and there are plenty of camping options available with Department of Conservation sites spread around the area. Every now again an adult Lion Seal makes its way on to the shore so be sure to stay sharp!

Brighton Beach is a beautiful beach located a few kilometres south of Dunedin. 

20km to the south west of Dunedin, Brighton is a little town located by the seaside, and adjacent to the Southern Scenic Route within the city limits of Dunedin. The proximity makes this area popular with the locals and visitors for day trips from Dunedin. During peak times of year there is an active Surf-Lifesaving beach patrol – always make sure you check the ocean conditions before getting in, swim with a buddy and stay out of the water if you lack the competence to swim in the surf – the ocean is unpredictable and must be respected.

Brighton also features a motor camp that offers boats for hire which you can use to row up stream. There are also several popular art galleries featuring works from a number of renowned local artists. Settling into the Dunedin is easy in your motorhome rental and offers you the freedom to enjoy it all.