Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula
The city of Dunedin was founded by European settlers mainly from Scotland in 1848, although Maori had been resident in Otago for many centuries prior to this.
With a population of about 120 000, it is a city balanced by economic needs and the recreational demands of its proud inhabitants.
The northern entrance to the city is hilly and bush-clad with outstanding volcanic features. The southern approach is equally spectacular with manicured farms alongside natural wetlands surrounded by hills. Travellers by air see Dunedin as breathtaking with its natural harbour, hilly peninsula and golden beaches.
The inner city is compact and easily accessed with elegant shops, cafés, restaurants, sightseeing and no traffic congestion. Much of the historical part of the city is within easy walking distance.
The coastline of the Otago Peninsula which surrounds the Dunedin harbour is spectacular with both sandstone and basalt cliffs with volcanic rock formations leading down to the sand dunes and deserted beaches. Royal Albatross, fur seals, sea lions, shags, penguins, wading birds and native bush make Dunedin and the Peninsula an attractive destination in all seasons.
