Choose from 889 Fun Things to Do in Australia And The Pacific
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Caversham Wildlife Park
Located in the lush surrounds of Whiteman Park, Perth’s Caversham Wildlife Park is home to Western Australia’s largest private collection of native wildlife. The park has more than 200 species of fauna, with a focus on native Australian animals such as koalas, wallabies, possums, Tasmanian devils, and wombats.
The Basics
A Caversham Wildlife Park entry ticket includes full access to the park’s many attractions, as well as daily events such as live shows and animal-feeding demonstrations. Most visitors choose to visit on a day trip from Perth; you can combine a full-day tour with other area activities, including a 4WD drive tour of the Darling Ranges, a wine tasting in the Swan Valley, a visit to the Pinnacles desert, or a sandboarding adventure down the Lancelin dunes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can take in all of the park’s attractions in about three hours, but many visitors opt to spend the whole day in Whiteman Park.
- On-site facilities include ATMS, free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, a café, and free parking.
- Caversham Wildlife Park is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Caversham Wildlife Park, located inside Whiteman Park, is about a 30-minute drive north of central Perth. There are two main entrances to the Whiteman Park—Lord Street and Beechboro Road—and also buses from Bassendean Railway Station stop at the Lord Street entrance, most visitors arrive either by private transport or as part of a guided tour from Perth.
When to Get There
Caversham Wildlife Park is open daily year round. The busiest time to visit is during the summer peak season (December and January) or during school holidays. Weekdays outside of these times are generally much quieter.
Wildlife Experiences at Caversham Wildlife Park
Caversham Wildlife Park highlights include supervised walks through the kangaroo enclosure; an interactive farm show where you can try your hand at shearing a sheep or milking a cow; and photo opportunities close to wombats, koalas, and kangaroos (additional fees required). There’s also Penguin Island, where you can watch the penguins being fed, and Molly’s Farm, where you can learn about cows, goats, and chickens.
Address: Lot 99B Lord St, Whiteman, WA 6068, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 133
Gordon River
The Gordon River is as beautifully remote as one could hope a river would be. Beginning in the highlands of the central plateau that dominates inland Tasmania, the riverbank is devoid of any residents along its 117-mile path. Instead, the entire length of this tea-colored river is part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness Area, a forested expanse of raw wilderness found on the western side of the island. Many of the trees set along this riverbank are nearly 2,000 years old, and as if the beauty couldn’t get any more stunning, the rolling profile of the surrounding hills is often reflected in the river waters.
When visiting Strahan on Tasmania’s west coast, one of the most popular activities is to spend a day on a Gordon River cruise. Plying the waters of the lower reaches of the river, it’s easy to imagine what it must have been like in the early 1800s, when the nearby prison at Sarah Island housed some of Australia’s most fearsome convicts. Today, however, the Gordon River is as placid and peaceful as the leaves that drift on its waters, and it’s a natural resource that fortifies the beauty of the western Tasmanian coastline.
Practical Info
Gordon River cruises depart from Port Macquarie in the west coast town of Strahan. The month of February is considered the best time to visit because of its high number of clear days, while the autumn months of October and November are often cloudy and wet. Most Gordon River cruises are also combined with stops at surrounding sights, such as Sarah Island, Hell’s Gate or a vantage point for viewing Ocean Beach.
Address: Gordon River, Tasmania, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 69
Cataract Gorge
Launceston’s ruggedly beautiful Cataract Gorge is a popular highlight for visitors, combining dramatic natural landscapes and Victorian-era landscaping right on the edge of the city.
The reserve is surrounded by wild natural parklands, and near-vertical cliffs soar alongside the South Esk River as it enters the Tamar River.
Hikers and rock climbers head here to follow picturesque walking trails along the gorge’s northern bank, and the open-air swimming pool becomes a mini lido in summer, surrounded by beach umbrellas and sunbathers.
With picnic grounds, restaurant, kiosk, cafe, wandering peacocks, scenic lookouts, a lofty suspension bridge and walking trails, you can easily spend a day here. At night the gorge is beautifully floodlit, and a chairlift whisks visitors over the river to West Launceston.
Before Launceston’s hydro dam was completed in 1955, the waters here were channeled to create electricity, with the power station at Duck Reach upriver from the suspension bridge. Now decommissioned, the building serves as a museum. A visit reveals the story of Launceston’s early days and the Duck Reach power plant.
The reserve is surrounded by wild natural parklands, and near-vertical cliffs soar alongside the South Esk River as it enters the Tamar River.
Hikers and rock climbers head here to follow picturesque walking trails along the gorge’s northern bank, and the open-air swimming pool becomes a mini lido in summer, surrounded by beach umbrellas and sunbathers.
With picnic grounds, restaurant, kiosk, cafe, wandering peacocks, scenic lookouts, a lofty suspension bridge and walking trails, you can easily spend a day here. At night the gorge is beautifully floodlit, and a chairlift whisks visitors over the river to West Launceston.
Before Launceston’s hydro dam was completed in 1955, the waters here were channeled to create electricity, with the power station at Duck Reach upriver from the suspension bridge. Now decommissioned, the building serves as a museum. A visit reveals the story of Launceston’s early days and the Duck Reach power plant.
Practical Info
Cataract Gorge is a 10-minute stroll west of central Launceston.
Just walk along Bridge Road from the city center and you’ll come to the Cataract Walk trail winding along next to the South Esk River, leading to the chairlift station and restaurant.
Just walk along Bridge Road from the city center and you’ll come to the Cataract Walk trail winding along next to the South Esk River, leading to the chairlift station and restaurant.
Address: 69 Basin Road, Launceston 7250, Australia
Hours: Open 9am - dusk
From $ 33
Echo Point Lookout
Anyone who’s seen a picture of the Blue Mountains should recognize Echo Point. Famous for its view of the Three Sisters, this sweeping viewpoint on the outskirts of Katoomba defines the Blue Mountains’ beauty. From this cliff top ledge, the jagged escarpment vertically drops towards the distant valley floor—a void where clouds can linger in the treetops nearly a thousand feet below.
Take a deep breath and drink in the beauty of the Blue Mountains’ southern flank, and then consider walking the “Giant Stairway” that drops down into the valley. Over 800 stairs that are carved from the mountain descend 1,000 vertical feet, where numerous hiking trails weave their way along the forested valley floor. Climbing the walls of the “Ruined Castle” is a popular valley hike, and is a good way to escape the crowds that tend to gather at the viewpoint. Rather than hiking back up the stairs, take a ride on the “Scenic Railway” that leads back to the top of the cliff. At inclines of up to 60° it’s considered the world’s steepest railway, and drops passengers at Scenic World—a short walk from Echo Point Lookout.
Practical Info
Echo Point Lookout is approximately 1.5 miles from the main Katoomba train station. There is a Visitor Center next to the lookout with info on the National Park, as well as interpretive plaques and cultural history on Aboriginal tribes. The lookout is located along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, and from here it’s possible to trace the cliff top all the way to Leura Cascades.
Address: Katoomba, Australia
From $ 37
Dreamworld
Dreamworld on the Gold Coast is home to the most thrilling rides on Australia's east coast!
Adventure and excitement can be found at every turn. Thrill-seekers can get their hearts racing with any of the Big 9 Thrill Rides including Pandamonium, Tower of Terror II, The Claw and Tailspin. Little ones will enjoy fun-filled rides like Escape from Madagascar, Big Red Boat Ride or Dorothy's Rosy Tea Cup Ride.
Dreamworld is also home to Australian wildlife, including a huge population of koalas, while Bengal and Sumatran tigers rule at Tiger Island. And if you get hungry at any time during your exciting day, stop at any one of restaurants and cafes located throughout the park for a bite to eat!
Adventure and excitement can be found at every turn. Thrill-seekers can get their hearts racing with any of the Big 9 Thrill Rides including Pandamonium, Tower of Terror II, The Claw and Tailspin. Little ones will enjoy fun-filled rides like Escape from Madagascar, Big Red Boat Ride or Dorothy's Rosy Tea Cup Ride.
Those on a quest for adventure will also find great attractions from DreamWorks Experience: Shrek's Faire Faire Away, Kung Fu Panda: Land of Awesomeness, Madagascar Madness and Madagascar Live!
Dreamworld is also home to Australian wildlife, including a huge population of koalas, while Bengal and Sumatran tigers rule at Tiger Island. And if you get hungry at any time during your exciting day, stop at any one of restaurants and cafes located throughout the park for a bite to eat!
Practical Info
Dreamworld is 17 km (10.5 miles) north of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast.
Buses run here from Brisbane, 48 km (30 miles) away. You could also catch the train from Brisbane to Coomera, then catch the connecting bus.
Address: Pacific Highway, Coomera 4209, Australia
Hours: Open daily 10am - 5pm. Closed Christmas Day & ANZAC Day.
Admission: Adults: AU$99.99, Children (3-13yrs): AU$79.99
From $ 70
Double Island Point Lighthouse
For 108 years, a lightkeeper here at Double Island Point Lighthouse was tasked with the job of keeping ships away from the Great Barrier Reef. Even though the light is now automated, however—having taken the lightkeeper’s place—the timber frame and romantic allure still accompany this historic, stoic tower in Great Sandy National Park. A popular spot with trekkers and sightseers, the lighthouse headland overlooks the coast and the turquoise waters below. White sand shoreline stretches out on both sides of the headland, which is only accessible by hiking trails or a 4x4 road down the beach. Whales and dolphins can be spotted offshore between the months of July–November, and surfers flock to the legendary wave that peels around the point. This is also a very popular stop between Noosa and Fraser Island, and offers one of the best views on Australia’s eastern coast. To see Double Island Point Lighthouse for yourself, embark on a 15-mile 4x4 drive from popular Rainbow Beach, or hike and camp along the coast through Great Sandy National Park.
Practical Info
While the lighthouse site is open to the public, the tower itself is privately operated and isn’t open to visitors.
Address: Queenstown, South Island, New Zealand, Australia
From $ 96
East Point Reserve
Nestled between Fannie Bay beach and the Nightcliff Headland, East Point Reserve is a nature reserve and the largest park area in Darwin. In addition to the many outdoor activities available here, the area’s military history draws both visitors and locals alike. The active at heart can enjoy the many walking trails and cycling paths, or take a swim in the saltwater of Lake Alexander. For those who prefer to lounge, there are dozens of ideal picnic spots from which to catch the views and sunsets, including those at the most popular beach on Fannie Bay.
The area is home to lots of Australian wildlife — everything from wallabies and bandicoots to reptiles and birds. The Mangrove Walkway is the best bet for seeing the animals that call East Point home. The Reserve furthermore played a role in defending Australia in World War II, which can be explored in the Darwin Military Museum here.
Practical Info
The park is located along Alex Fong Lim Drive in East Point, Darwin. It is open during daylight hours, with the Mangrove Walk open from 8 am to 6 pm daily. There are many facilities for visitors, including free barbecue areas, public toilets, and playgrounds for children.
Address: Alex Fong Lim Drive, East Point, Darwin, Australia NT 0820, Australia
From $ 27
Glen Forest Tourist Park
Picture yourself riding a Segway through vineyards surrounded by emus or camels. That’s a scene you’re likely to encounter on a visit to Glen Forest Tourist Park, a family-run farm about 15 minutes outside the town of Port Lincoln. Of the 400 acres (162 hectares) that make up the farm, over 120 acres (49 hectares) are dedicated to animals such as wombats, kangaroo, and buffalo. It’s a great place for children and families to experience Australia’s wildlife, and you can try your hand at mini golf once you’ve spent time visiting the animals, or kick back with a glass of wine from the 80-acre (32-hectare) vineyard. You can also upgrade to a Segway ride to tour the farm on two wheels and top off a quirky day of adventure in the South Australian countryside.
Insider Tip: It’s a good idea to wear closed toe shoes since you’re touring a working farm. Some of the paths are gravel and dirt and you’ll want them for riding a Segway.
Practical Info
Glen Forest Tourist Park is located 11 miles (18 km) north of Port Lincoln, about a 15-minute drive from the airport. It is over a seven-hour drive from Adelaide, but 12 daily flights running between Adelaide and Port Lincoln make the 50-minute flight a worthy alternative. The park is open year-round from 10am to 5pm every day except Christmas. Admission costs $13 for adults and $11 for children.
The road to the farm is dirt in some sections, so be sure your rental car can handle the conditions. There are covered picnic areas for bringing your own lunch as well as facilities for a BBQ, and the entire experience is very casual and welcoming for families and groups.
Address: 877 Clarkes Lane, Green Patch, South Australia 5607, Australia
Hours: 10am–5pm daily
Admission: Adult: $13; Child: $11
From $ 697
Doubtful Sound
While tour buses may flock to neighboring Milford Sound, the wild landscapes of Doubtful Sound are equally enchanting and much less crowded. Framed by looming cliffs and dotted with rocky islets and tumbling waterfalls, this natural fjord is three times longer and has 10 times more surface area than Milford Sound. It is also centrally located at the heart of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Basics
Helicopter and small-plane flights offer spectacular aerial views of the fjord and the surrounding national park, while those interested in seeing the fjord from the water can embark on a catamaran cruise around Doubtful Sound, setting sail from Deep Cove. Tours run from Te Anau, Manapouri, and Queenstown, and often visit other natural wonders such as Manapouri Lake, the Te Anau Glowworm Cave, Dusky Sound, and the Wilmot Pass en-route to the fjord.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The weather in Doubtful Sound can be unpredictable, so prepare for wind and rain even in summer.
- If hiking, wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks—there are limited places to purchase supplies.
- Cell phone coverage is limited, but free Wi-Fi is available at the Fjordland National Park Visitor Center.
- Most Doubtful Sound cruises are wheelchair accessible, but not all activities within Fiordland National Park are accessible to those with limited mobility, so it’s best to check in advance.
How to Get There
Doubtful Sound is located on the southwest coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The fjord can be reached from Manapouri, a town roughly 100 miles (170 kilometers) by road from Queenstown, a drive of about 2.5 hours. The journey includes a ferry ride across Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus ride over the Wilmot Pass. It is also possible to arrive by helicopter. The nearest international airport is in Queenstown.
When to Get There
Summer (December through February) is the most popular time to visit Doubtful Sound, but the area is open year-round. Winter visitors will be at the weather’s mercy and there will be fewer departures to choose from, but tours are often cheaper and the snow-covered landscapes make for some stunning scenery.
Wildlife Spotting at Doubtful Sound
Here you can spot rare Fiordland crested penguins and New Zealand fur seals, especially on the fjord’s islands. Be on the lookout for southern right whales, orcas, and humpback whales as you cruise through the fjord, and look down to spot black coral beneath the water.
Address: Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Admission: Free
From $ 188
Cathedral Cove
With its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and towering rock formations, Cathedral Cove is one of New Zealand’s most popular sections of coastline. Set on the North Island’s Coromandel Peninsula, Cathedral Cove gains its name from the archway that separates its two beaches, and serves as a massive stone cathedral with views looking out at the coast. The water here is exceptionally clear, and is protected as part of the Te Whanganui a Hei Marine Reserve. While most people visit on foot, it’s also possible to experience the cove by kayak, snorkel, or dive boat, all of which leave from the town of Hahei just a few minutes down the coast. Along the shaded cliff top walkway, large pohutukawa trees protrude out over the ledge, and provide a scenic canopy of green when strolling the sandy cove. Along with neighboring Hot Water Beach, which is just 10 minutes away, Cathedral Cove is a Coromandel highlight and popular day trip from Auckland.
Insider's Tip: If you’re staying in Hahei Beach, there’s a trail that leads from the western end of Hahei Beach and climbs the bluff to connect with the trail that leads to Cathedral Cove. Add an additional 20-30 minutes if you choose to hike from Hahei.
Practical Info
The hike to Cathedral Cove takes about 1.5 hours round trip, and while the track is graded and well signed, some sections of trail can be steep. Due to its popularity, Cathedral Cove can get very crowded, particularly on weekends or holidays, so try to visit early in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds. There is ample parking at the Cathedral Cove parking lot, which is found at the end of Grange Road.
Address: Grange Road, Hahei, North Island, New Zealand
From $ 176
Gondwana Rainforest
Sprawling over more than 360,000 hectares, the Gondwana Rainforest is one of Australia’s most important ecological sites, famed for its abundance of rare and endangered wildlife.
Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the rainforest areas are mostly found along the coastal region of southern Queensland and northern New South Wales and encompass more than 50 national parks, forests and reserves.
The most visited areas include the Lamington National Park, Tamborine Mountain National Park and Border Ranges National Park in Queensland, and Springbrook National Park, Dorrigo National Park and Mount Warning National Park in New South Wales. Within the parks, hiking, climbing and camping are among the favorite pastimes of visitors, with a vast network of walking trails and an abundance of natural landmarks, including the mighty Tweed Volcano. For nature enthusiasts, the main draw is the spectacular variety of wildlife, including endemic species like Hastings river mouse, spotted-tailed quoll and mountain tree frog, and rare birds including wompoo dove, marbled frogmouth and lyre bird.
Practical Info
The Gondwana Rainforest is located throughout southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales.
Address: Australia
From $ 73
Glass House Mountains
Like bulbous beacons of outdoor adventure just minutes from the Sunshine Coast, the Glass House Mountains rise from the plains like eruptions frozen in stone. The pinnacles, in fact, are volcanic plugs that were once Australian volcanoes, and rise today to 1,800 feet above the coastal plain. Named by Captain Cook when he sighted them from his ship, the Glass House Mountains today are an outpost of hiking, climbing, and horseback riding, with views stretching out towards Maroochydore and Brisbane and the shores of Moreton Island. Of all the walks inside of the park, one of the most popular is the Glass House Mountains Lookout Circuit, which at only half a mile is a comfortable stroll, but still offers views looking all the way out towards the Sunshine Coast in the distance. More avid adventurers can shoot for the summit of Mt Tibrogargan, which requires some climbing and scrambling skills to reach the 1,200-foot peak. In the surrounding area, outside the official National Park but still in the Glass House vicinity, the Blackall Range offers a scenic drive that’s one of the best in Australia, and passes through small, hinterland towns that are a welcome change from the fast pace of the popular Sunshine Coast.
Practical Info
The Glass House Mountains are located one hour north of Brisbane, and about 35 minutes from the Sunshine Coast beaches. Tibrogargan and Ngungun are currently the only mountains that are open to the public for climbing, and there are facilities and toilets scattered throughout the park.
Address: Queensland, Australia
From $ 81
Eagle Street Pier
Shiny and modern, Eagle Street Pier is the riverside corporate entertainment precinct of Brisbane City. Beneath the glass facades of the city’s law firms and commercial offices, overlooking the Brisbane River, are many of the city’s most loved bars and restaurants.
Local favorites at Eagle Street Pier include Jade Budda for cocktails, the Bavarian Bier Café for a hearty feed and Matt Moran's ARIA for fine dining. The precinct is popular on Friday nights in particular, when end of week celebrations transform the calm riverside into a cosmopolitan hotspot.
Every Sunday between 8am and 3pm, Eagle Street Pier hosts a waterfront market for the weekend wanderer to browse stalls selling clothing, arts and crafts, jewellery and gifts.
Local favorites at Eagle Street Pier include Jade Budda for cocktails, the Bavarian Bier Café for a hearty feed and Matt Moran's ARIA for fine dining. The precinct is popular on Friday nights in particular, when end of week celebrations transform the calm riverside into a cosmopolitan hotspot.
Every Sunday between 8am and 3pm, Eagle Street Pier hosts a waterfront market for the weekend wanderer to browse stalls selling clothing, arts and crafts, jewellery and gifts.
Practical Info
Neighboring the city center, Eagle Street Pier can be reached by bus to the city center, train to nearby Central Station, as well as ferry and foot. There is a terminal at Eagle Street Pier for ferry and City Cat services and paid, secure undercover parking can be found beneath the Pier in Wilson Parking.
The Eagle Street Pier is also connected by riverside pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, making this a delightful place to take a post-dinner walk and enjoy the Brisbane River view.
The Eagle Street Pier is also connected by riverside pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, making this a delightful place to take a post-dinner walk and enjoy the Brisbane River view.
Address: Eagle St, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
From $ 44
Glenelg Tram
The city of Adelaide is close to the beach, but isn’t exactly on it. To reach the white sand beaches of Glenelg—a teeming suburb of streetside cafés and fiery evening sunsets—all that’s required is a short ride on the historic Glenelg Tram. Dating back to 1873, the Glenelg Tram line is an Adelaide icon that’s beloved by city residents. It’s the only remaining tram line in the city and a physical link to yesteryear, and it’s also a convenient and affordable way for moving about the town.
Historic H-class cars were used on the tram up until 2006, and while they’ve since been replaced by a more modern fleet, the original cars will sometimes be inserted on Sundays and public holidays. From the large glass windows of the slowly moving tram, watch as the scenery gradually changes from city, to suburb, to beach. The tram is actually free to ride within the downtown city center, although passengers traveling all the way to Glenelg can buy their tickets on board.
Practical Info
The northernmost terminus is the Adelaide Entertainment Center on the outskirts of the downtown city center, and the coastal terminus is at Moseley Square just a short walk from the beach. The tram can often be very crowded—particularly around rush hour in the city center—although trams run every 15 minutes in the event you need to wait.
Address: Adelaide, Australia
From $ 51
Barron Gorge National Park
Whether it’s hiking, boating or tracking wildlife, the lush hills and scenic passes of Barron Gorge National Park make up the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore this natural Australian wonder, which lies just beyond Cairns city limits.
Overnight travelers can set up camp at nearby Speewah Conservation Park before setting out on one of Barron Gorge’s popular hikes, which range from an easy 1.2 kilometers to more challenging excursions between the park’s three main trailheads. Commercial rafting trips along the Barron River let daredevil travelers explore less accessible parts of the lower gorge, while wildlife lovers can find tree-kangaroos, flying foxes, spotted-tail quolls and even the endangered southern cassowary along the river’s edge.
Visitors often stroll along the banks of Lake Placid in the lower Barron Gorge, and the popular Skyrail Rainforest Cableway takes visitors high up into the park’s rainforest canopy.
Practical Info
The lower section of Barron Gorge National Park is located 18 kilometers northwest of Cairns, and the upper section is 27 kilometers outside the city. Rainy season lasts from December to April, so it’s best to travel between May and September to escape the downpour.
Address: Lamb Range QLD 4870, Cairns, Australia
Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission: Dependent on activity
From $ 36
Castle Hill
Whether it’s from the ground or from the top, the Castle Hill views are some of the best in Townsville. Majestic pink mountains framed by palm trees climb into clear blue skies, making for picture-perfect landscape shots. And a network of challenging hiking trails—including the Goat Track—a local favorite, lead to vast, uninterrupted vantage points of the city down below. Travelers can look out over Magnetic Island, Townsville beaches, bustling ports and the flowing river. Whether it’s for fitness or for pleasure, a trek to the top of Castle Hill is a must when in the area.
Practical Info
Castle Hill is easily accessible by walk or car. Visitors can start at The Strand and walk up Gregory Street before ascending the hill. Parking is available at the foot of the hill for those who travel by car.
Address: Townsville, Queensland, Australia, Australia
From $ 41
Dunedin Railway Station
Made of bluestone with marble floors and stained glass windows, the Dunedin Railway Station is one of Dunedin’s most impressive buildings and purportedly the most photographed in New Zealand. Far more than a railway station, here you can also grab something to eat, visit a sports museum, or photograph the attractive building.
The Basics
Opened in 1906, the once-busy Dunedin Railway Station still services the Taieri Gorge Railway, a scenic journey that extends into the Central Otago countryside. Today the golden age of rail is long over, and now there’s a restaurant on the ground floor, while the upper floor houses the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame and the Otago Art Society. The striking venue is also used for special events.
Many sightseeing tours of Dunedin include a stop at the station, and it’s also an easy place to visit independently. Railway lovers can take the return day trip on the Taieri Gorge Railway, which offers spectacular views and marvelous feats of engineering.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A local farmers market is held in front of the station every Saturday morning. It’s a great place to go if you’re self-catering in Dunedin.
- To learn more about the history of Dunedin and the gold rush that led to the building of the station, visit the nearby Toitū Otago Settlers Museum.
- Sports fans shouldn’t skip a visit to the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame, housed in the station building.
How to Get There
The Railway Station is easy to find in central Dunedin, just southeast of the Octagon. Many hotels are located within walking distance of the station. Several bus routes pass through the Octagon, and taxis all know where to go.
When to Get There
The station can be visited year-round, as the building is attractive in all weather, and Taieri Gorge Railway trips run throughout the year. Opening hours are 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 2:30pm Saturday and Sunday.
Visit Larnach Castle
Lovers of colonial architecture—or just travelers interested in history and New Zealand culture—should also pay a visit to Larnach Castle, located on the Otago Peninsula, a short drive from the Dunedin Railway Station and central city. The beautiful 19th-century house and gardens can be toured, and there’s an upmarket lodge on the premises.
Address: Dunedin, New Zealand
From $ 20
Dunedin Cruise Port
Dunedin Cruise Port
Known as the architectural heritage capital of New Zealand, Dunedin was once the largest and wealthiest city in the country. Sitting on the Otago Peninsula on New Zealand’s South Island, this lively university town with Scottish roots is increasingly popular among tourists.
How to Get to Dunedin
Cruise ships dock at Port Chalmers, a suburb of Dunedin located about 8 miles from the city. Shuttle buses are available to take you into the center of town, typically dropping you off at the Octagon in the heart of Dunedin. Public buses also run between Port Chalmers and Dunedin, picking passengers up from the corner of Harrington, Fox and Meridian Streets. Taxis are also available to make the 15 minute drive to Dunedin.
One Day in Dunedin
Whether you take a shuttle or a public bus, you will likely arrive in Dunedin at the Octagon – an eight-sided plaza in the center of town full of bars and cafes. Start with a visit to the Otago Museum to learn more about the region’s cultural and natural history. If you’re interested in contemporary art, stop at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery on the southwestern corner of the Octagon as well. Spend some time checking out the charming Victorian and Edwardian architecture of the city, including Otago University and the Railway Station. Then, head over to bustling George Street, just off of the Octagon, to peruse some of Dunedin’s best shops before taking a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants lining the street.
After lunch, it’s time for dessert! Make your way to Cadbury World on Cumberland Street, where you can sample Cadbury chocolate or even take a guided tour of the factory. Beer-lovers may want to follow that up with a tour of Speight’s Brewery, home of the South Island’s most popular beer. Or, pay a visit to the Royal Albatross Center at Taiaroa Head, home to the world’s only mainland breeding colony of northern royal albatross.
Time permitting, you might also head out to New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle. Sitting on a hilltop a few miles outside of the city, the castle is another example of Victorian architecture and offers spectacular views of Dunedin Bay. Or, save some time to explore the galleries, boutiques and antique shops of Port Chalmers before returning to your ship.
Those wishing to see more of the region surrounding Dunedin might consider an excursion on the Taieri Gorge Railway, a four hour trip with morning and afternoon departures. The train typically departs from the Dunedin Railway Station, but if you book a tour, you will likely depart from, and return to, the port instead.
Port Information
The official language is English and the local currency is the New Zealand dollar. ATMs are readily available and credit cards are widely accepted. Temporary visitor information booths are set up at the port when cruise ships are in port.
Known as the architectural heritage capital of New Zealand, Dunedin was once the largest and wealthiest city in the country. Sitting on the Otago Peninsula on New Zealand’s South Island, this lively university town with Scottish roots is increasingly popular among tourists.
How to Get to Dunedin
Cruise ships dock at Port Chalmers, a suburb of Dunedin located about 8 miles from the city. Shuttle buses are available to take you into the center of town, typically dropping you off at the Octagon in the heart of Dunedin. Public buses also run between Port Chalmers and Dunedin, picking passengers up from the corner of Harrington, Fox and Meridian Streets. Taxis are also available to make the 15 minute drive to Dunedin.
One Day in Dunedin
Whether you take a shuttle or a public bus, you will likely arrive in Dunedin at the Octagon – an eight-sided plaza in the center of town full of bars and cafes. Start with a visit to the Otago Museum to learn more about the region’s cultural and natural history. If you’re interested in contemporary art, stop at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery on the southwestern corner of the Octagon as well. Spend some time checking out the charming Victorian and Edwardian architecture of the city, including Otago University and the Railway Station. Then, head over to bustling George Street, just off of the Octagon, to peruse some of Dunedin’s best shops before taking a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants lining the street.
After lunch, it’s time for dessert! Make your way to Cadbury World on Cumberland Street, where you can sample Cadbury chocolate or even take a guided tour of the factory. Beer-lovers may want to follow that up with a tour of Speight’s Brewery, home of the South Island’s most popular beer. Or, pay a visit to the Royal Albatross Center at Taiaroa Head, home to the world’s only mainland breeding colony of northern royal albatross.
Time permitting, you might also head out to New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle. Sitting on a hilltop a few miles outside of the city, the castle is another example of Victorian architecture and offers spectacular views of Dunedin Bay. Or, save some time to explore the galleries, boutiques and antique shops of Port Chalmers before returning to your ship.
Those wishing to see more of the region surrounding Dunedin might consider an excursion on the Taieri Gorge Railway, a four hour trip with morning and afternoon departures. The train typically departs from the Dunedin Railway Station, but if you book a tour, you will likely depart from, and return to, the port instead.
Port Information
The official language is English and the local currency is the New Zealand dollar. ATMs are readily available and credit cards are widely accepted. Temporary visitor information booths are set up at the port when cruise ships are in port.
Address: New Zealand
From $ 57
Goat Island
This rocky 13-hectare island in the heart of Port Jackson is as rich in history as it is in sandstone. Once home to an explosives store and later a convict stockade, Goat Island has housed the Sydney Water Police and even served as a film set. What originally served as a destination for some of the nation’s biggest criminals (who were forced to labor in the massive quarries), is now part of Sydney Harbour National Park.
Popular walking tours guide travelers around this much-storied island, with stops at the Queens powder magazine (where ammunition was once stored) and at the old convict quarry and sleeping quarters. Learn about life on Goat Island, the punishments endured by prisoners and their attempts to escape.
Popular walking tours guide travelers around this much-storied island, with stops at the Queens powder magazine (where ammunition was once stored) and at the old convict quarry and sleeping quarters. Learn about life on Goat Island, the punishments endured by prisoners and their attempts to escape.
Practical Info
Travelers can take the Sydney and Matilda ferries to Goat Island or join a historic walking tour. Be sure to pack a camera, since views from Goat Island are some of the best in Sydney Harbour.
Address: Goat Island Sydney Harbour National Park, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
From $ 73
Barrington Tops National Park
Despite being just a few hours drive from Sydney, the sweeping mountain valleys, lush rainforests and thundering waterfalls of the Barrington Tops National Park are a world away from the city. Spread over more than 83,000 hectares, the national park lies on the rugged Barrington Plateau and forms part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana rainforests, one of Australia’s most diverse ecosystems.
Popular activities within the park include hiking, mountain biking, 4WD tours, canoeing and horseback riding, while there are also ample opportunities for camping, fishing and picnicking. Wildlife enthusiasts will also be in their element with common sightings including grey kangaroos, wombats, pademelons and bats, and hundreds of bird species, including kookaburras, flame robins, cockatoos and rosellas.
Practical Info
Barrington Tops National Park is located in eastern New South Wales, around 250km north of Sydney.
Address: New South Wales, Australia
From $ 367