Otago Peninsula's Hidden Gems: A Self Guided Driving Tour

3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

The Otago Peninsula stretches like a finger from the city of Dunedin into the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique landscape where harbor meets high cliffs, rolling farmland and rugged coastlines. On this self-guided driving tour, you'll experience the peninsula's diverse ecosystems, discover hidden beaches, encounter remarkable wildlife, and explore historical sites that tell the story of early Māori and European settlement in New Zealand's southeast corner.

You'll start at the Portobello Road Information Stop, before driving along the winding harbor road. You'll have opportunities to visit the award-winning Glenfalloch Gardens, explore the beaches at Macandrew Bay and Broad Bay, and stop at the historic Fletcher House. The journey continues over the peninsula to the wild Pacific side where secluded beaches, volcanic formations like The Pyramids, and abundant marine wildlife await your discovery.

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This tour starts at the Portobello Road Information Stop on Portsmouth Drive. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading."

End point

The tour ends at Tuppence Cafe.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    Glenfalloch is a historic woodland garden featuring colourful flowers, native ferns, and tranquil streams. Visitors experience the grounds by following the gentle walking paths at their own pace.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Fletcher House is a meticulously restored Edwardian villa, offering a glimpse into domestic life in 1909. You will experience the home's authentic period furnishings and architecture during a guided tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Port to Port is a harbour ferry and cruise operator providing transport and wildlife tours. Your route passes their departure point, offering views of the vessels and harbour activity.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Portobello Museum is housed in a former Priory and details the peninsula's local history. You will experience this stop by browsing the collected photographs, artefacts, and displays inside.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Monarch Wildlife Cruises is a boat tour operator departing from Wellers Rock for wildlife viewing. Your route stops at their departure point, where you can observe the boats and harbour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    OPERA is a conservation alliance dedicated to restoring native biodiversity on the peninsula. Visitors experience the project's impact by observing the extensive predator-proof fence and the protected landscapes.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Royal Albatross Centre is the world's only mainland breeding colony for Northern Royal Albatross. You will experience this landmark by viewing the birds from a protected observatory and visiting the educational displays.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Allan's Beach is a broad, sandy coastline known for its dunes and populations of sea lions and seals. You will experience this area by walking along the shore, observing the wildlife from a respectful distance.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Sandfly Bay is a remote, windswept bay featuring a massive sand dune and dramatic coastal cliffs. Visitors experience the site by walking down the steep dune to the beach, a common location for spotting sea lions and penguins.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Larnach Castle is New Zealand's only castle, notable for its Victorian architecture and restored interiors. Visitors experience the landmark by touring the opulent rooms and exploring the extensive, themed gardens.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The Soldiers Monument is a memorial dedicated to fallen soldiers, located at one of the peninsula's highest points. You will experience this stop by observing the 360-degree panoramic views over the harbour and surrounding landscape.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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