Local Attractions and Businesses in Dunedin, New Zealand - Quality

The Otago Peninsula is one of the best places in New Zealand to enjoy abundant marine life, including the rare yellow-eyed penguin, sea lions, sea elephants, fur seals and albatross.

Sheer cliffs on the Pacific Ocean side afford breathtaking views over the coastline and there are numerous waymarked paths, making for easy exploration. The beaches of Seacliff, Karitane and Shag Point lead the way to Moeraki, where huge spherical boulders are scattered over the beach like giant marbles.

The warmest months are December to February (18°C) and it is fun to camp in these summer months in the Peninsula's campsites. It's also possible to drive around the peninsula (a round trip of 64km) while staying in nearby Dunedin.

To see albatross, visit the Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head, the only colony in the world close to human habitation. The birds arrive in September, mate in October and lay eggs in November, incubating until January when the eggs hatch. By the next September, the little chicks are ready to fly.

Penguin Place (off Harington Point Road) run tours to the yellow-eyed penguin conservation project and allow viewings of within a few metres - the closest you can get to them anywhere. Book in advance.

Fifteen kilometres from Dunedin is Larnach Castle, a ridiculous mish-mash of baronial proportions built in 1871 by millionaire JWM Larnach for NZ$25 million in today's money. It is possible to stay and to eat very well in the castle.