PORTS OF CALL - Australia / New Zealand
Dunedin, New Zealand
As gateway to Queenstown's many adrenaline-pumping activities and guard to the unspoiled natural habitats of the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, the second-largest city on the South Island, with its historic Victorian architecture, alternative collegiate vibe and outstanding outdoor recreation, stands second to none. Whether you want to peep at rare penguins, view historic buildings or take in a museum, Dunedin has it all and then some.
Don't Miss
Got a sweet tooth? You won't after you've visited Cadbury World, a working chocolate factory. The 40-minute guided tour is all about information, education and samples, lots and lots of samples. Be sure to bring the kids. If your tastes run in a different direction, then tour Speight's Brewery instead.
Sporting Adventures
If there's a sport you love, you'll have no trouble doing it in Dunedin. From hiking to biking to surfing and sea kayaking, the more adventurous you are, the more adventures you'll find. Take in the view from Mt. Cargill. Buses run to the base, but then it's just you and the mountain for the next 90 minutes. Or simply walk up Baldwin Street, the world's steepest.
Shopping for Bargains
Dunedin is a large city and can be expected to have all kinds of shops, from national chains to local boutiques, Scottish kitsch to antique treasures, art galleries to clothing designer showrooms. It's a cosmopolitan place, and a bit expensive, so stroll George Street and you'll find what you like. Or it'll find you.
Local Flavours
Even though Dunedin, Celtic for Edinburgh, was founded by the Scottish, finding a good Haggis is going to be hard. However, there are over 140 restaurants in Dunedin, most centered on the Octagon and George Street. Chinese is a city specialty as the Chinese population dates back to the gold-rush days of the 1860s. But your best bet is to let your feet and appetite guide you.
Currency
Currency is the New Zealand dollar, currently worth about $0.65 USD. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are everywhere. Moneychangers are widely available so don't expect any real trouble converting currency or travelers checks, but do shop around for the best rates.