Dunedin, New Zealand - Australia & New Zealand Cruises

Take a fascinating journey through history and discover the origin of this intriguing city. Discover how early settlers from Scotland and China struck gold and why the city grew so quickly. The city’s Scottish roots are steeped in the Celtic name itself as Dunedin translates to Edinburgh.

Dunedin’s First Church is an example of Gothic-style architecture complete with a 185-foot spire. Thomas Burns, the first pastor of this church, was the nephew of Robert Burns, the ‘Scottish Poet Laureate’.

Your next stop will be at the popular woodland gardens of Glenfalloch (hidden glen), situated in a coastal valley overlooking Otago Harbour. The gardens feature original plantings of European trees from 1872 including Azaleas and Rhododendrons and many unique hybrids. Enjoy some traditional highland dancing on the green, followed by refreshments of tea, coffee, scones or muffins. An entertaining Haggis ceremony will be performed and each participant will receive a certificate commemorating their visit and a special souvenir with a Scottish flavour.

A brief stop will be made at the Robert Burns statue, which sits proudly atop the Octagon. Erected in 1887, this Dunedin landmark stands in a prominent position in front of St Paul’s Cathedral in the heart of the city.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is approximately one hour of walking in total spread over the various stops. There are some sloping paths at the Glenfalloch Gardens.

Board your coach for a drive along the coast road to Olveston House. Built in the early 1900's for local businessman, David Theomin, the Jacobean style, grace and grandeur of Olveston is distinguished by a wealth of decorative detail. A walk around the grand mansion allows an intimate glimpse of the lifestyle of a privileged family in the early 1900's. It is filled with treasures collected from all over the world. The house was bequeathed to the city of Dunedin by Theomin' daughter in 1966.

Leaving Olveston you will drive the short distance to New Zealand's oldest Botanical Gardens. Established in 1863, the charming Gardens span 72 acres and feature native and specialised plant collections including the famed Rhododendron Dell and Rose Garden.

A panoramic drive will take you past Otago University, classic Dunedin buildings, Otago Harbour and nearby beach communities to the picturesque Dunedin Train Station, before returning to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 30 minutes' walking at the Botanical Gardens which is at your own leisure. The terrain is mostly paved walkways.

The Taieri Gorge train, Dunedin's prestigious and historic train, will make a special journey to the quayside to pick you up for this picturesque return ride to Pukerangi. It will take you through the rugged and spectacular Taieri River Gorge, across vast wrought iron viaducts and through tunnels carved by hand more than 100 years ago.

A picnic-style luncheon and complimentary beverages of local beer, sparkling wine, fruit juices, tea, coffee and mineral water will be served onboard as you listen to the informative commentary and watch the beautiful scenery pass by. There will be photo stops at vantage points along the way to enable you to capture on camera some of the striking landscape.

On the return journey, the train will stop at the picturesque Dunedin Railway Station before returning to the ship.


This excursion will operate by train. Please be advised that the train is not air-conditioned and there are four steps to negotiate to embark and disembark the train. Guests who wish to explore the city of Dunedin can leave the tour at Dunedin Railway Station, however you will be responsible for making your own way back to the ship via the shuttle bus.

Cruise the Otago Harbour for a wonderful and unique opportunity to view the abundant marine wildlife of the area. Have your binoculars at the ready and look out for the local inhabitants - fur seals, penguins, nesting birds and dolphins are amongst some of the wildlife that may be sighted.

It is then time for a rare chance to witness the largest seabird in the world. To sight a soaring Albatross is a truly awe inspiring experience. With a wingspan of up to 10 feet, this huge bird is capable of swooping at speeds of up to 90 mph. Take a closer look and see if you can spot the rare yellow-eyed penguin which resides in this protected area.

Light refreshments of tea, coffee, fruit juice and biscuits will be served during your wildlife cruise.


This excursion will operate by boat. There is a short walk along the pier to board the vessel. Guests will need to negotiate a steep ramp to get on and off the vessel.