Dunedin
(population 118.000)This nice urban city (2nd biggest city of the southern island) is founded by Scottish. Dunedin is the Celtic equivalent for Edinburgh. Dunedin used to be the largest city in the middle of the Victorian era (1860's); it developed itself on the back of the gold rush in the 19th century. Remains of the History can be found around the city. Nowadays Dunedin is a city in which the countries oldest and largest university plays a central role. The city is also famous for its nice gardens with in particular their rhododendrons. Lots of galleries, nice restaurants and cafe's can be found in this city near the sea.
Outdoor
Beaches and surfing
St Clair Beach and St Kilda Beach are perfect Beaches for swimming. Moana Pool is a beach with a rougher sea with makes it a perfect spot for the experienced surfers. The other Beaches can be used for learning to surf.
Aerial sight seeing
On Dunedin Airport you will come across many companies offering aerial sight seeing. They will take you above the city, the nearby Peninsula and above sea. Above sea you will also see marine mammals.
Tramping
Dunedin Botanic Gardens will provide you an excellent opportunity to enjoy many nice plants.
If you would like to train you uphill skills within an urban area, you should go to Baldwin Street. This street is world's steepest street. It is even in the World Book of Records.
Just outside the city itself (some start even in the city) are very nice walks to undertake. For example the Pineapple-Flagstaff Walk. This is a 2 hours walk with nice views on the harbor and coast of Dunedin.
For more information please visit a DOC or go to their website: http://www.doc.govt.nz.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activity
Cadbury World
Since the 1930's chocolate is being made in Cadbury World. You can visit the factory which nowadays represents almost 90% of New Zealand's chocolate production.
Speight's Brewery
You can have a look at how beers are being brewed. Afterwards tasting can be done.
Cultural buildings and places
Church of Otago
This is the first church of the mid and east of Southland.
Olveston
This building has been completed in 1906 and is designed by a Londoner. The building itself isn't the most impressive feature; the furniture is.
University of Otago
This is the oldest and biggest university in New Zealand. It has been founded in 1869.
Gallery
Dunedin Public Art Gallery
This gallery has a permanent exhibition about the past 150 years New Zealand art. There are also temporary exhibitions. Some of the shown art is borrowed from London's Tate Gallery.
Museums
Discovery World
This museum consists much information about and attributes of the nature. Also for kids this is a nice place to visit.
New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame
If you are a sports fan you should visit this museum. It features famous sportsman and sports.
Otago Museum
This museum contains a section about Maori. There is also an exhibition about the nature, including the Japanese spider crab.