A Brief History
Dunedin is a little slice of Scotland in New Zealand. Located on South Island, the city was founded by Presbyterian Scottish immigrants. It's the perfect holiday destination if you love rugged coastlines, beautiful late 19th-century architecture and beautiful landscapes. Travellers buying flights to Dunedin can visit New Zealand's first botanical gardens, the country's oldest university and conquer one of the steepest residential streets in the world. You can also learn about the first Maori who settled in Dunedin.
Archeologists believe the Maori have inhabited the area since 1100 AD and Taiaora was the site of the earliest fortified villages. Centuries later, Dunedin experienced a gold rush, and it became one of the wealthiest cities in New Zealand. Today, travellers purchasing airfare to Dunedin can fly into Dunedin International Airport (DUD) and explore one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations.
Major Events and Festivals in Dunedin
Dunedin Craft Beer & Food Festival
The Dunedin Craft Beer & Food Festival is one of the biggest events on the city's social calendar. If you need an excuse to buy tickets to Dunedin, plan your holiday around the festival. It's held every year in November at the Forsyth Barr Stadium and celebrates the best local and national brews. If you want to attend, book your return flights to Dunedin to arrive a few days before the festival to take part in the many pop-up events.
Wild Dunedin - New Zealand Festival of Nature
Dunedin is the wildlife capital of New Zealand, and the Wild Dunedin festival is the best way to experience it all. The event takes place at the end of April each year and is made up of more than 50 events. Travellers buying return flights to Dunedin can take part in the variety of events, guided walks and workshops.
Dunedin Fringe Festival
Dunedin Fringe Festival is worth planning your flights to Dunedin around if you're an art lover. The festival hosts events at various locations in the city, from theatres to galleries and even book stores. The event is popular, so you'll want to book your flights to Dunedin and hotel room a few months in advance.
Dine Dunedin
Foodies buying cheap flights to Dunedin should not miss out on attending Dine Dunedin. Held across 16 days, some of the top chefs and restaurants in the city host a series of delicious dinners, tastings and fine dining experiences. Some of the highlights include craft chocolate tastings from Ocho Chocolate and special events from Emerson's Brewery and the Prohibition Smokehouse.
Dunedin Landmarks and Monuments You Can’t Miss
Visit Larnach Castle
One of the top attractions for holidaymakers booking flights to Dunedin is Larnach Castle. It's the only castle in New Zealand, and it was built in the late 19th century. Inside the imposing walls, travellers will find slabs of Italian marble, Venetian glass and Welsh slate. Over the years, the castle has served as a soldiers' barracks, a nunnery and an asylum. One of the best experiences at the castle for travellers buying tickets to Dunedin is the high tea in the old ballroom.
Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
Travel back in time and learn about the first settlers to arrive in Dunedin, from the Maori right up to the Westerners that flocked to the city during the gold rush. History buffs booking return flights to Dunedin can learn about the first meetings between the Maori tribes and early whalers, and explore the interactive and multimedia exhibits.
Dunedin Public Art Gallery
Dunedin Public Art Gallery is considered one of the top galleries in New Zealand. Travellers buying airfare to Dunedin can see an extensive collection of artwork from local and international artists. Some of the most popular pieces are paintings by Monet, Machiavelli, Turner and Dunedin-born artist Frances Hodgkins.
Taiaroa Head
Taiaroa Head is located at the tip of the Otago Peninsula. It's home to a large colony of royal albatross that is the only mainland breeding colony of this bird species in the world. Other wildlife that nature lovers buying cheap flights to Dunedin can spot here are red-billed gulls, royal spoonbills and southern fur seals. If that's not enough for you, go up to nearby Pilots Beach and you might catch a glimpse of blue penguins!
Otago Farmers Market
Did you know that Otago Farmers Market is considered one of the best markets in New Zealand? If you're searching for a food souvenir to take back home, make sure you stop by. Travellers booking flights to Dunedin will find local artisans offering everything from chocolate, coffee, cheese, honey and freshly-baked bread. The market takes place every Saturday at the iconic Dunedin Railway Station. Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is only 24 minutes’ drive from the market, so you can pick up a few treats before heading back home.
When is The Best Time to Visit Dunedin?
Dunedin's high season runs from November to March. The mild temperatures attract local and international visitors during the festive period. To save money, book your flights and hotel room a few months in advance before prices start to skyrocket.
For frugal travellers, the best time to visit is during the city's two shoulder seasons: May and September to October. The hotels in Dunedin slash their prices, flights are cheaper, and crowds are at a minimum.
Dunedin is at its quietest in winter. From June to August, the city experiences its highest rainfall, keeping many visitors at bay. But if you don't mind sticking to indoor activities, you'll be able to pick up great deals on hotel rooms and flights.
Airports in Dunedin
Dunedin Airport
Dunedin Airport is located 22 km from the city and is the gateway to the Otago region. It only operates domestic routes and trans-Tasman flights from Brisbane, Australia.
Getting To and From Dunedin Airport
If you're on a budget, the best way to get between the city and the airport is with a shuttle service. Depending on the number of people you share with, you can expect to pay anything from NZD 30 to NZD 60. Shuttles can be booked in advance or when you arrive.
The taxi rank is located outside of the arrivals terminal. Fares start at NZD 75 one way, making it the most expensive transport option at the airport.
Another option is to book a hotel that offers a free airport pickup and dropoff service. Alternatively, you can hire a car from one of the rental companies.
