Dunedin has heaps on offer most within an easy 30 minute drive from the city centre.  You can walk the worlds' steepest street, watch yellow eyed penquins, seal lions and albatross.  Visit historic Larnach Castle, take one of the worlds' best train journeys or splash around at Moana Pool.  Discover the secrets to making your favourite chocolate bar at Cadbury World.  Take a brewery tour or just soak up the wilderness on the stunning Otago Peninsula.

Reviews

Larnach Castle is situated on the Otago Peninsula a little more than 20 minutes from Dunedin. The construction began in 1871 and continued for many years.  Gifted craftsmen were bought in from around the world to embellish the interior with the finest materials. The original owner William Larnach would accept nothing but the best, he was a successful landowner, Minister of the Crown, banker, financier and merchant Baron.  You can read his interesting story which ended when he took his own life, seated alone in a committee room in Parliament. The exciting scandalous history, the magnificent carved ceilings, antiques and breathtaking views make for an unforgettable visit.  The castle is now privately owned and has been lovingly restored to be shared with the public. The have an excellent children's guide to the castle. It takes them through the castle room by room as they read, search for clues, answer questions and explore.  We felt totally welcome at the castle, there are no ropes or barricades and the kids thoroughly enjoyed thier day, it was educational and fun.  The 35 acres of gardens and grounds are immaculate and a joy to stroll around, a written garden guide is also available .  You can pay to view the gardens only or to visit the castle and gardens.  A variety of accomodation is available on site as well as a cafe/restaurant.  allow around 3 hours to take in everything on offer.  An excellent attraction.

The Cadbury Chocolate Factory is located in Dunedin and runs daily tours.  If you are a chocy lover you will be able to stand in the warehouse that can hold over 3000 tonne of chocolate, sample some of Cadbury's favourite bars and hear some amazing stats on just how much chocolate we consume.  As you are guided through different parts of the factory dvd screens and your tour guide show you some of the processes involved in creating the perfect product.  Allow 1.5hours. You can't take photos in the factory but opportunities are available for the kids to be photographed with a giant Easter bunny and in some of Cadbury's old vehicles.

Taieri Gorge Railway located in Dunedin takes you on a journey through the rugged and spectacular Taieri River Gorge, across wrought iron viaducts and through tunnels carved by hand more than 100 years ago.  The majestic old train takes you on a journey back in time as it rolls along the line. Stops are povided along the way to stretch your legs and snap photos.  An informative commentary compliments the stunning scenery.