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See New Zealand
The Southern Way

GC Dunedin Queenstown GC

ARRIVE DUNEDIN. DEPART QUEENSTOWN.
EXPLORE INBETWEENSTOWN.

The best way to see the lower South Island is as slowly as you possibly can. The Southern Way is a network of scenic routes, so you can explore all the nooks and crannies as you meander from the east coast into the mountains, with plenty of stops along the way.

From Tuesday 24th June, Jetstar are flying direct from Gold Coast to Dunedin.

It opens up a whole new way to explore the lower South Island this winter — driving the Southern Way, and flying out of Queenstown.

QUEENSTOWN FIORDLAND SOUTHLAND CLUTHA DUNEDIN CENTRAL OTAGO WAITAKI WĀNAKA

Budget have come to the Southern party with a special winter offer. Pick up your rental car in Dunedin, and drop it off in Queenstown, without having to pay a one-way fee. Plus you’ll save 15% on your daily rental rate.

For all bookings over 4 days (valid for booking and travel from 01 May – 30 Sep 2025). *T's and C's apply

DUNEDIN > QUEENSTOWN

15% OFF

AND NO ONE-WAY FEE

Budget have come to the Southern party with a special winter offer. Pick up your rental car in Dunedin, and drop it off in Queenstown, without having to pay a one-way fee. Plus you’ll save 15% on your daily rental rate.

For all bookings over 4 days (valid for booking and travel from 01 May – 30 Sep 2025). *T's and C's apply

DUNEDIN > QUEENSTOWN

15% OFF

AND NO ONE-WAY FEE

Find Your Way

Google Maps says it takes 3 hours and 28 minutes to get from Dunedin to Queenstown. We reckon it takes a lot longer. Here are the five of the best, but far from the fastest, routes to drive from Dunedin to Queenstown. Of course, feel free to go your own way.

Southern Scenic Route

Fly into Dunedin to begin your discovery of the Southern Scenic Route, spend the day exploring, you are spoilt for choice with the city known for it's unique wildlife and heritage architecture.

Animal lovers and history enthusiasts alike will find the Otago Peninsula a captivating destination. This 20km stretch of coastline is renowned for its rich marine wildlife, including New Zealand sea lions, Royal Albatross, Blue Penguins, and the endangered Yellow-Eyed Penguin. Discover the world’s only mainland northern royal albatross breeding colony at the Royal Albatross Centre. Enjoy a guided tour combining wildlife viewing with local history. 

The peninsula is also home to New Zealand’s only castle—Larnach Castle Built in 1871 and lovingly restored, the castle is surrounded by award-winning gardens. Winter accommodation options at Larnach Castle includes the Larnach Lodge or the unique Stable Stay for a memorable start to your Southern Scenic Route adventure.

Alternatively discover a wide range of accommodation in Dunedin including hotels, motels, and boutique apartments in the city centre.

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Waitaki and Wānaka Wanderer

Your adventure begins as you land in Dunedin. After picking up your rental car, head to St Clair Beach. Stroll along the shoreline, warm up with a hot drink at one of the cafes, and treat yourself to refreshing gelato. Explore the beach suburb, with its restaurants and shops along the esplanade, and soak in Dunedin’s coastal vibe.

In the evening, experience Horizon Tours' Star Gazing and Cultural Connection for an unforgettable winter night. Discover the night sky and learn about the area’s cultural history through an expert-guided tour.

Stay overnight in one of the many boutique accommodations in Dunedin’s city centre, in the morning, enjoy a walk with a coffee and explore the city’s vibrant street art.

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Southern Wildlife and Nature Escape

Begin your adventure on the Otago Peninsula, with its rugged and dramatic coastline renowned for rich wildlife and sweeping ocean vistas. Winter is a great time to visit—wildlife activity often peaks, and the moody skies enhance the peninsula’s breathtaking landscapes. It’s an ideal season for a peaceful, immersive nature experience.

At dusk, experience the enchanting Blue Penguins Pukekura Evening Tours, where you can watch the world’s smallest penguins return to shore after a day at sea. This unforgettable wildlife encounter offers a unique glimpse into the lives of these charming birds in their natural habitat.

For a truly exceptional stay on the Otago Peninsula, stay and dine at Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Perched on the summit of Baldwin Hill, it offers panoramic views, lush landscapes, and rugged coastline. Steeped in history, the castle features restored rooms, exceptional dining, and beautifully landscaped gardens—blending heritage and natural beauty in a truly unique setting.

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Central Otago Touring Route

Upon landing in Dunedin, you’ll be immersed in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Start with a peaceful visit to the Lan Yuan Chinese Garden, where you can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and experience the beauty of Chinese heritage. Or, step back in time at Olveston, a beautifully preserved historic home that offers a glimpse into the lives of early 20th-century New Zealanders, complete with its fine art and antiques.

Make sure to visit the Dunedin Railway Station, a stunning example of Edwardian design and one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Consider staying a bit longer in Dunedin to experience the famous Dunedin Railways scenic train journeys, which take you through some of the region's most breathtaking landscapes.

Alternatively, explore the city’s creative spirit with a self guided street art tour, where colorful murals bring Dunedin's history and modern culture to life. 

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Savour & Sip Adventure

After landing in Dunedin, it’s time to indulge in the local cuisine and craft beer—you’ll be ready to savour and enjoy every mouthful!

Head straight to the vibrant city centre, where you'll find a delightful mix of new eateries and beloved local favourites, all offering the best of Dunedin’s food and beverage scene.

Dive into the region’s brewing heritage with Speight’s Brewery Tour, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic breweries, or explore Emerson’s Brewery Tour, known for its innovative craft beers and rich history. Both tours offer an in-depth look at the brewing process and a chance to sample some of the finest local brews, making them a must for any beer lover visiting Dunedin.

Dunedin is a hub for creative artisan producers, with locals crafting innovative, fresh, and nourishing foods and beverages that are hard to find anywhere else. For a true taste of the region, head to the Otago Farmers Market every Saturday, where you can discover and sample the coolest handcrafted goods straight from the makers themselves.

 

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WHAT’S ON IN THE SOUTHERN WAY

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LUMA Enchanted | Queenstown

30 May - 31 August

Experience the magic of LUMA Enchanted this winter at Queenstown Kiwi Park.

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MLT Hokonui Fashion Design Awards | Gore

25 July

Hokonui Fashion Design Awards showcases top emerging and established talent nationwide.

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Light up Winter | Cromwell

2 August

Step into a whimsical woodland at Light Up Winter as The Anderson Park Rose Garden transforms.

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NZ International Science Festival | Dunedin

28 June - 6 July

Over nine days, enjoy 90+ events and a bustling Festival Hub. From gaming, quantum physics, and tech to conservation, literature, theatre, and comedy—there's something for everyone.

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ARRIVE DUNEDIN. DEPART QUEENSTOWN.
EXPLORE INBETWEENSTOWN.

From Tuesday 24th June, Jetstar are flying direct from Gold Coast to Dunedin.

Central Otago
Clutha
Dunedin
Fiordland
Queenstown
Southland
Waitaki
Wanaka
Dunedin Airport
Queenstown Airport
Invercargill Airport