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The small settlement of Aramoana is tranquil and relaxing, with many attractions. There are no shops or streetlights, and many of the houses are cribs. The nearby beaches are an amazing experience. The steep cliffs barrel down onto the beach and into the water. Careys Bay offers the Careys Bay Historic Hotel; a public bar and restaurant. Port Chalmers offers cafes and harbour views.

St Clair beach has some great eateries and is a great spot for a morning walk. Even on Dunedin’s cooler days, St Clair beach has a wild beauty and is a popular surfing spot. Food trucks now often stop at St Clair and the hot saltwater pools are open over the summer. Dunedin Tunnel Beach walking track is a great walk, with some steep parts requiring a good level of fitness.

Glenfalloch offers beautiful gardens and an award-winning restaurant. Dunedin’s Otago Peninsula is a fantastic day trip, with a few classic pub-style restaurants at Portobello. Visit and dine at Larnach Castle, before heading to Tairoa Head and visiting the Royal Albatross Centre and Little Blue Penguins. Get a glimpse at these magnificent birds.

The Orokonui Ecosanctuary is 20 km North of Dunedin and is home to New Zealand kiwi, South Island robin, saddleback, kaka, native bats, takahe, tuatara and jewelled gecko. There are several walks around the ecosanctuary and a visitors centre with a café. There are bird feeding stations throughout the walks, frequented by kākā and other native birds. If you’re a keen photographer of wildlife be sure to take a camera!

Karitane is a beautiful relaxed seaside town just a short 20-minute drive from Dunedin. The Huriawa Pā walk passes blowholes where the incoming tide is forced up through rocks. Huriawa Peninsula is the site of the Pā of Te Wera and the legendary siege. Plaques along the walkway tell the history of the area and show the site of the old Waikouaiti Whaling Station and Tavern.

Moeraki is a sleepy seaside fishing village an hours’ drive from Dunedin. It’s well known for the Moeraki boulders; unusually large and spherical boulders lying along a stretch of Koekohe Beach, which is just north of the village. Fleurs Place, located at the village jetty, is a rustic building serving locally sourced, fresh seafood and wine. Well known to foodies, Rick Stein has said if he could choose to go anywhere in the world to write a travel article – it would be Fleurs. 

Oamaru’s Victorian Precinct is a busy hub filled with shops, galleries, cafés, bars and restaurants. Scotts Brewing Co. offers woodfired pizza a locally brewed beer, there’s a unique steampunk playground, beautiful limestone buildings, unique steampunk sculptures and a wharf with little blue penguins and South Island shags. Notable foodie spots in Oamaru include Whitestone Cheese, Cucina, and Riverstone Kitchen.

The Catlins is where you can experience the unique wilderness of New Zealand. Well known attractions include Nugget Point, Purakaunui Falls, Cathedral Caves, McLean Falls and the petrified forest at Curio Bay. Spot the world's rarest dolphin (Hector’s) at Curio Bay and Porpoise Bay in Summer or see seals, sea lions and rare birdlife at several spots along the coastline. Approximately two hours from Dunedin, the Catlins is an excellent day trip for those interested in New Zealand’s flora and fauna and rugged landscape.

The Dunedin Botanic Gardens is New Zealand's first botanic garden and holds the status of six-star Garden of International Significance. The Camellia Collection is rated as a Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society. The Botanic Garden celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2013, marking its position as New Zealand’s first botanic garden. It occupies 30.4 hectares in North Dunedin at an altitude of 25 – 85 metres above sea level. The Garden has hill views from sunny lawns, more than 6,800 plant species and the song of wild native bellbirds, wood pigeons and tui.

The Signal Hill Lookout, offering stunning views just a short drive from the centre city. It is the perfect place to survey Dunedin for the first time. Home to a monument with two bronze statues dedicated to the New Zealand Centennial. This popular spot is used by many different groups. Mountain bikers start here and ride down through the trails in the scenic reserve that encompasses much of Signal Hill.

The Dunedin Town Belt is located in the central urban area of Dunedin, covering 202 hectares across several suburbs including Mornington, Roslyn, Maori Hill, Woodhaugh and Opoho. It is one of only three Victorian Town Belts in the world. The Ross Creek Reservoir is an outstanding walk. It's one of the oldest artificial lakes in the country, and the oldest water supply reservoir still in use today. 

Otago Peninsula has twice been named one of the top ten bicycle rides in the world by Lonely Planet. It has a network of dedicated cycle lanes and shared pedestrian and cycle paths. The hills and bays around the city and on the Peninsula provide ample opportunity for riding, at all levels of difficulty, against a stunning backdrop of the hills, harbour and coastal scenery. 

The Garden is an authentic example of a late Ming early Ching Dynasty Scholar’s Garden and celebrates the Chinese influence on Otago's history and heritage. It is one of only three that exist outside of China and the only one in the Southern Hemisphere. All materials have been transported from Shanghai and the Garden was built by traditional Chinese artisans and builders. Plantings were influenced by Garden Architects from Shanghai, planted and maintained with the influence of traditional Chinese culture and heritage.

Transport yourself away from New Zealand in this traditional Chinese garden then complete the experience by trying traditional-style Chinese teas and food in the form of steamed buns and dumplings in the Tea House and Gift Shop.

The story of the Otago region told through displays of more than 100,000 exhibits, many of them with a relatable domestic angle, from food to clothes to houses to cars. Wandering through the 14 galleries, you begin with early Māori inhabitants and progress up to recent times, inevitably recognising at some point that your own personal history overlaps with what you're seeing, whether it's a school uniform, twin tub washing machine or clunky-looking computer

The Otago Museum is located in the city centre of Dunedin, New Zealand. It is adjacent to the University of Otago campus in Dunedin North, 1,500 metres northeast of the city centre. It is one of the city's leading attractions and has one of the largest museum collections in New Zealand. Natural science specimens and humanities artefacts from Otago, New Zealand and the world form the basis for long-term gallery displays. An interactive science centre within the Museum includes a large, immersive tropical butterfly rainforest environment.

From European greats like Monet and Rembrandt to Japanese prints and 19th-century New Zealand works, if it’s fine art that you’re looking for, the Dunedin Public Art Gallery is the place to visit. The gallery is renowned for its wide-ranging displays, which cover most artistic periods, as well its airy ambience and beautifully designed interiors. 

The Regent Theatre is one of Dunedin’s most beloved institutions. The Theatre, a Category One Historic Building, regularly hosts a variety of events including live music and theatre, prize-givings, project launches, conferences, festivals, community events and much more.

Bringing to the city such great international Broadway hit shows as Priscilla and Les Miserables, the Regent has firmly established itself as an integral part of Dunedin City's social and cultural community.

The Dunedin Railway Station is one of the city’s most prominent architectural landmarks, taking pride of place in the central city. Dating back to 1906, this magnificent Flemish Renaissance-style edifice features white Oamaru limestone facings on black basalt rock, giving it a dramatic air and its characteristic ‘gingerbread house’ appearance. It’s the most photographed building in Dunedin. 

On Saturdays, visit the Otago Farmers Market in the adjacent area. With up to 75 vendors selling the freshest fruit and vegetables, meat products, eggs, baked goods, cheese, nuts, honey and artisan products, you will be in foodie heaven.

Olveston was built for Dunedin businessman, collector and philanthropist David Theomin. Opened as a historic house museum in 1967, Olveston is a time capsule as little has changed inside the house since it was occupied as a family home between 1906 to 1966. Olveston is an authentic and original historic home depicting the life of a wealthy merchant family in the early part of the twentieth century.

Situated on the picturesque Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle is one of New Zealand’s premier visitor attractions. Lovingly restored by the Barker family, the castle and surrounding grounds are at the heart of the Dunedin visitor experience. Tour the award-winning castle and gardens. High tea is available at the Ballroom Cafe.

The University of Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world. Dunedin campus is recognised as one of the world’s most beautiful campuses with world-class teaching and research labs, performance spaces, lecture theatres, study areas, and sporting facilities. 

Graduations are held throughout the year, with a parade down the main street; George Street, to the Town Hall. Dinner venues and accommodation can book out quickly on graduation evenings so we suggest booking your stay well in advance.

What started at the Otago Farmers Market has grown into a busy business, with two popular cafes in Dunedin. Beam Me Up Bagels makes authentic New York style bagels, hand-rolled and kettle boiled, fresh each day.

Buster Greens offers wholesome real food with flavour and made with love. Located on the North end of George Street, visit the boutique fashion stores and gift shops in the area.

Located in Moray Place, Side On has good coffee and bread baked fresh each day. They also stock some jams and spreads which make for unique gifts for any foodie.

Precinct Food specialises in freshly made and creative food. With a purpose-built commercial kitchen in Dunedin’s historic Heritage Precinct, they provide an outstanding cafe experience. A repurposed warehouse building, it’s a perfect spot for a top-quality coffee and snack or a full meal from the modern menu.

Heritage Coffee is a reflection of the things they love about our small city with a big heart. It’s all about the people, the character, the place, the produce. Heritage Coffee has fine locally roasted Common Ground espresso, vibrant easy café fare and people who care. They naturally squeeze a whole lot of goodness into the corner of Vogel and Jetty Streets.

Rustic, honest, casual and good is Vogel St Kitchen. Full of regional flavours and local ingredients, all products are free-range. Experience a distinctly Dunedin flavour in a lovely old building. Vogel St Kitchen is in the heart of Dunedin’s Warehouse Precinct.

In the heart of Dunedin, Paasha has definite Mediterranean origins, Paasha is full of flavour. Paasha is a family-friendly, relaxed restaurant.

Jizo offers traditional Japanese cuisine with fresh local ingredients. Jizo is a great destination for an intimate dinner or group booking.

Located in the Octagon, Gelato Junkie is a great stop for something sweet on sunny days in the city or after dinner out. They don’t offer single-use cups so take a cup or eat in, they also have vegan options.

Located in the corner of the Octagon, Mac’s Brew Bar is a great spot for a classic pub lunch, beer or cocktail. It offers a quintessentially kiwi interior and large sunny outdoor area. Weekend evenings will see local acoustic acts and DJs.

With picturesque views of St Clair beach, Titi St Clair offers sophisticated dining. Experience fresh, local and seasonal fare creatively made by an award-winning chef.

Located at St Clair, The Esplanade is a mainstay. From the team behind No.7 Balmac, the Esplanade offers a decidedly Italian menu, with a range of pizza and pasta dishes. Enjoy ocean views and watch surfers with a glass of wine, beer, coffee or cocktail. It’s authentically good tasting food in a relaxed setting. It’s often incredibly busy, so for larger parties, we suggest booking.

PLATO offers relaxed dining on Dunedin’s harbour. Using locally sourced ingredients, PLATO is well known for its beautiful fresh seafood. They have catering and cakes made to order and Birch Street Brewery is on-site.

Bacchus is an award-winning wine bar and restaurant, conveniently located on the first floor at 12 The Octagon. Bacchus is well known for great service in a uniquely Dunedin setting.

No.7 Balmac is a restaurant, bar and bistro located in Maori Hill, Dunedin. Just a short drive from The Burlington Apartment. We wouldn’t recommend walking there, as it’s at the top of a hill. It’s a great spot for brunch, or dinner, with a lot of the fresh ingredients grown onsite and wood-fired goodness. For graduation dinner, they run a set menu and we recommend booking well in advance.

Conveniently located at just a walking distance from The Burlington, at 10 The Octagon, Prohibition Steak House specialises in southern style BBQ hot off the grill and fantastic cocktails. Using the regions finest fresh produce and a menu developed with a paleo ethos, they offer an exceptional dining experience in a uniquely stylish setting.

Etrusco is one of Dunedin’s most well-established Italian restaurants, bringing an authentic Italian experience to Dunedin diners. Serving pizza and pasta and an extensive wine list and cellar, Etrusco is close to The Octagon in the Savoy Building on Moray Place.

With a rich history in Dunedin, Speights Ale House offers tours and tastings regularly and is just a short walk from The Burlington. The Speights Ale House offers classic pub fare meals, with generous servings. For tours, you are required to have closed shoes.

Emerson’s has quickly grown from a boutique brewery to one of New Zealand’s most recognisable beer. With an award-winning restaurant and brewery conveniently located at just a short walk from Forsyth Barr Stadium, we recommend dinner at Emerson’s before a rugby match or stadium show. You can also go behind the scenes and have a brewery tour.

Precinct offers convenient corporate and event catering for conferences, private functions and weddings. You can even order online. The dedicated team of chefs and hospitality specialists provide quality catering. With light meals, platters, and canape options.

Kind Grocer is a small family-owned and operated vegan grocer and café in Dunedin’s warehouse precinct. They offer catering and also local home delivery of vegan groceries. If you have unique dietary requirements or are vegan, we highly recommend you stop in and take a look at what they offer.

Though the interior may not make this Japanese place enticing, they offer authentic delicious sushi at reasonable prices.

Touted as Dunedin’s leading Asian-fusion restaurant, conveniently located in the Octagon, Vault 21 offers out-catering solutions that bring an elegant, professional touch to any function or event. 

BB Catering offers stress-free corporate catering. Chef Gordon takes great pride in creating menus to accommodate a wide range of events and experiences. They offer canapes for cocktail parties, at-home dinners and plated dining options.

Estelle Flowers offers seasonal, botanical and artistic flowers. They have flowers for delivery and in-store bespoke bouquets. They specialise in weddings, funerals, events and visual styling.

Muscle Mechanics are trusted by some of New Zealand’s top teams and athletes. If you are tight, sore, stiff or niggly, want to improve your posture, mobility or sports performance, or just looking for a world-class massage, Muscle Mechanics Sports Massage is for you.

Gift Saint offers divine contemporary gift hampers and luxury gift bundles. They’re ideal for the most discerning recipients and offer eco-friendly boxes and gift sets for any occasion.

Rebecca has been a professional make-up artist in Dunedin for about ten years. She creates looks for brides-to-be, hair salons and magazine features and has worked with several well-known Dunedin photographers.

BLOKE Barber is conveniently located on the ground floor at 2 Dowling Street, Dunedin. They offer cuts, clipper cuts, hot towel shaves, head shaves, beard trims and even gift vouchers.

We recommend booking with St James. Errol offers a wide range of hairdressing suitable for each individual and is conveniently located at 20 Moray Place, Dunedin.