best time to visit dunedin nz

The Best Time to Visit Dunedin, New Zealand for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Dunedin for ideal weather are

December 10th to March 4th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Dunedin Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Dunedin Travel Info

Weather in dunedin.

Average temperatures in Dunedin vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for most of the year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 18th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Dunedin, the hottest months are January, February, and then December. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late December where highs are regularly around 71.8°F (22.1°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 47.8°F (8.8°C) at night.

Dunedin Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Dunedin temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Dunedin Perceived Temperature (F)

Dunedin perceived temperature (c), average dunedin temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Dunedin are July, February, and then December. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around mid to late August. For example, on the week of August 20th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late May with an average of 2 days of significant precipitation the week of May 21st.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Dunedin.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Dunedin (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Dunedin has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is November (64.5% relative humidity), and the most humid month is June (79.2%).

Wind in Dunedin is usually calm . The windiest month is October, followed by November and January. October’s average wind speed of around 7.9 knots (9 MPH or 14.6 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in late October to early November where average top sustained speeds reach 16 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Dunedin.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to dunedin.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for New Zealand; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Oct 26, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Dunedin, New Zealand is March, followed by July and June. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Dunedin in November. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall dunedin travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderately cold. Highs range from 68.7°F (20.4°C) and 53.9°F (12.2°C) with colder temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 5 to 7 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have cold weather with high temperatures that are still jacket weather. These months see the least precipitation with about 5 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Dunedin, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 69°F (20.6°C) and 57.1°F (13.9°C), which will feel chilly given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 5 to 7 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is somewhat cool this time of year in Dunedin to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 71.8°F (22.1°C) and 66.9°F (19.4°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 4 to 5 times per month. These times of year are the slowest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › New Zealand › Dunedin, New Zealand

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Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
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Top 10 things to do in Dunedin

Discover the spectacular landscapes, wildlife and local history of Dunedin.

From edgy urban street art to adorable penguins, Dunedin is a region full of surprises. Make sure you tick off these top 10 activities and attractions in Dunedin next time you're in town. 

1. Meet local wildlife

Getting up close to nature with Natures Wonder, Dunedin

By Camilla Rutherford

Blue Penguins Pukekura, Dunedin

By Dunedin NZ

Penguin, Dunedin

By Miles Holden

Royal Albatross chick at Pukekura Taiaroa Head, Dunedin

By Otago Peninsula Trust

Dunedin is home to rare wildlife. On the Otago Peninsula, you can spot little blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sea lions.

You can also visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross. View the Albatross with a guided tour at the Royal Albatross Centre (opens in new window) .

Elm Wildlife Tours visits the far reaches of the peninsula for close encounters with the wild inhabitants. To get a different perspective, join a Monarch Wildlife Cruise (opens in new window) for a unique view via sea.

A visit to Orokonui Eco Sanctuary (opens in new window) , 20 kilometres north of Dunedin will be rewarded with Tuatara lizards, Otago Skinks and 17 species of native birds, including kiwi.

2. Visit Larnach Castle

Lanarch Castle, Dunedin

By Enterprise Dunedin

Exploring Larnach Castle, Dunedin

Sightseeing in Dunedin isn't complete without a visit to Larnach Castle.

New Zealand's only castle is an important and much-loved piece of Dunedin history. Built in 1871 by William Larnach, a merchant and politician born to Scottish parents,   Larnach Castle   has been carefully restored to its original Victorian grandeur, and its beautiful rooms and gardens are open to the public 365 days a year. The castle boasts a 3,000 square foot ballroom, which hosts high tea at 3 pm every day, and a tower commanding sweeping views of the Otago Peninsula.

Larnach Castle is located 20 minutes drive from downtown Dunedin.

3. Enjoy a locally-brewed beer

Craft Beer, Dunedin, Dunedin

Emersons, Dunedin

By DunedinNZ

After a day of sightseeing, one of the best things to do in Dunedin is to get cosy in one of the city's many pubs and enjoy a local beer. To go one step further, indulge in a tour and tasting at Emerson's craft brewery (opens in new window) or the historic Speights Brewery (opens in new window) .

4. Visit Port Chalmers

Port Chalmers, Dunedin

A short drive from Dunedin,   historic Port Chalmers   is truly charming. The village offers an interesting mix of heritage attractions, cafés and galleries. The creative community in this small town mean it's full of vibrant art and culture, from potters and sculptors to painters, musicians and jewellers. 

Port Chalmers is a popular weekend destination from Dunedin and one of the locals' favourite things to do. 

5. Dunedin Street Art Trail

Mural by Tyler Kennedy Stent, Dunedin

By Tyler Kennedy Stent

Explore the ever-growing collection of vibrant, whimsical artworks from international and local artists which are dotted throughout the central city, around corners, down alleyways and boldly painted upon the sides of buildings. The walk takes around 90 minutes, and you can pick up a copy of the trail map at the Dunedin i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

6. Explore Dunedin’s stunning beaches

Tunnel Beach goers, Dunedin

St Clair, Dunedin

Tunnel Beach, Dunedin

Escape to one of Dunedin's fantastic beaches, only a few minutes drive from the city centre.

St Clair is a popular surf beach, but other beaches have good breaks too - including Aramoana, Murdering Bay and Karitane. If you just want to swim, Brighton Beach is a beautiful choice, just 20 minutes drive from Dunedin.

Long Beach is good for rock climbing and has huge caves to explore, while Tunnel Beach features a spectacular sandstone sea arch, which is best visited at low tide.  

7. Travel through time at Otago Museum or Toitu Otago Settlers Museum

Travel through the universe at Otago Museum, Dunedin

By Otago Museum

Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, Dunedin

Otago Museum   has shared world-class collections for 150 years. With over 1.5 million objects, the museum tells stories of nature, culture, and science. Home to the biggest science centre in New Zealand and the only bicultural science centre in the world, there is a three-story slide, a bike-riding skeleton, and best of all an indoor Tropical Forest where you can walk amongst a thousand rain forest butterflies. 

The   Toitu Otago Settlers Museum (opens in new window)  has created a wonderfully immersive experience that shares the story of   Dunedin’s   past, from the early Māori inhabitants and European settlers, through to more modern history complete with trolley-buses, vintage cars, and retro homewares. The interactive displays, replica models, and activities for children bring local history to life in a refreshing and engaging way, making it a great activity to do with kids.

8. Enjoy cycling and mountain biking

Cycling the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin

Dunedin's compact city layout and flat runs make it a great place for cycle touring, while the surrounding countryside offers five mountain bike trail networks. Signal Hill, just 40 minutes ride from the city centre, has the best downhill track in the country.

About an hour's drive from Dunedin, Middlemarch forms the start of the famous   Otago Central Rail Trail (opens in new window) . This 150km trail takes in historic gold mining sites, country pubs, and peaceful, golden-hued landscapes.

9. Discover a city of Literature

Municipal Chambers, Dunedin

By Gouldy99

Dunedin is a UNESCO designated City of Literature, and it shows. The town's central Octagon proudly displays a statue of Robert Burns and has its own Writers’ Walk - a series of plaques featuring entertaining and informative quotes about Dunedin and its heritage.

Bibliophiles should visit the rare manuscript collections at the Reed and de Beer Galleries, or head to Dutybound Book Bindery to see old binding techniques in action. For some serious browsing, swing by Hard to Find Bookshop, Stafford 6 Books or the University Book Shop.

10. Marvel at Dunedin's grand architecture and heritage

Olveston Historic Home, Dunedin

Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere with gorgeous heritage buildings everywhere you look. Nowadays, these are filled with quirky cafes, boutiques and other attractions that will fill days of exploration.

Spend a few hours admiring the valuable collections at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery or many independent galleries where local artwork is on sale. Visit the exquisitely preserved   Olveston Historic Home   for a peek at the home-life of a Dunedin family during Edwardian times. Or visit the   Dunedin Botanic Gardens   to explore the Edwardian Winter Garden or the glorious Rhondendron Dell.

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Dunedin Itinerary: How to Spend Three – Seven Days in Dunedin

Last Updated on March 22, 2023 by Jon Algie

I can assume if you’ve landed on this page that you’re planning a trip to Dunedin. Congratulations – you’ve chosen wisely! Dunedin is (in my slightly biased opinion) the most beautiful city in New Zealand. You’ll find dozens of viewpoints, beaches and other natural attractions as well as heaps of history. This Dunedin itinerary will show you the best places to visit and give you some tips on how best to spend your time in this scenic southern city.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click one and book a hotel or tour we’ll get a small cut. It won’t cost you any extra and it helps maintain this website.

Dunedin Itinerary: Three Days

You’ll never see everything Dunedin has to offer in three days, but you can see most of the highlights.  This Dunedin itinerary will take you to some of the best beaches in the city as well as the historic centre, the beautiful Otago Peninsula and some lesser-known sights.

I’d recommend spending your first day in Dunedin in and around the city. Go for a wander down George Street, eat at one of the outdoor dining spots in the Octagon , visit the Dunedin Railway Station (where you can board a train to Taieri Gorge ), check out the unique street art and maybe visit a museum or art gallery.

It’s a compact city centre and there are heaps of old buildings scattered around. For something a little more off the beaten path, check out the Warehouse Precinct , where you’ll find some great places to eat (try Good Good if you’re a burger fan) and grand old buildings.

After that you’ll want to see some of that world-class nature. Head to St Clair Beach , where you can stroll around the esplanade, go for a swim in the saltwater pool or try your hand at surfing. You can also drive or walk along John Wilson Drive for awesome views. There are other beaches nearby too, including Smails Beach (check out the Karetai Road Track if you’re up for a short hike).

If you’re keen for more exploring, drive up to Tunnel Beach , a short distance from St Clair. There are great views on the walk down and the beach is accessed by a historic tunnel. If you’ve got more energy you could drive all the way to Brighton or Taieri Mouth – so many pretty beach scenes in these parts and the Taieri River Track is a good workout.

To end the day you could watch the sunset out at Brighton, drive up to Signal Hill Lookout or Unity Park Lookout .

READ MORE: 30 Stunning Viewpoints in Dunedin

Day two of my Dunedin itinerary focuses on the Otago Peninsula. It’s the most iconic nature spot in Dunedin and there is heaps to see. I’d start by driving up Highcliff Road, stopping occasionally to take in the views of Otago Harbour. You could do the Soldiers Memorial Track , which only takes 10 minutes or so.

READ MORE: 30 Fun Things to Do in Dunedin

From there you can visit Larnach Castle , which is interesting enough, but not quite in the same league as the castles you’ll find in Europe. Sandfly Bay is nearby too, and there’s a great viewpoint close to the car park.

Next up you could head to the Sandymount Track – the walk won’t take long and the views over Allans Beach and Hoopers Inlet are pretty special.

You may have had enough of beaches and coastal views by now (I never get sick of them though), so you can either head around Hoopers Inlet to Allans Beach or head straight for Portobello . This is a good place to stop for lunch. From there you’ll drive to Taiaroa Head , the nesting grounds of the famous royal albatross. There are good views on offer in these parts, and if you visit around sunset you can do a little blue penguin tour. These creatures are adorable!

After a solid chunk of sightseeing you’ll probably want to relax a bit – so either stop off at Macandrew Bay on the way back to the city or just chill out in a nice café somewhere.

Of course, if you want to spend longer on the Otago Peninsula there are a lot of options. The Harbour Cone Track is one of the best short walks in Dunedin, and if you feel like staying the night nearby there are options in Portobello, Macandrew Bay and beyond. It’s a different vibe to staying in the city but there are enough places to eat and drink to make it a viable option.

Day three of our Dunedin itinerary will take you to a few less common spots. Everyone knows the Otago Peninsula is a must-see, but the other side of the harbour has more than enough to recommend it too. First up I’d drive to the top of Mount Cargill for panoramic views of Dunedin and its scenic surrounds. I reckon this is the best “city” viewpoint in New Zealand, and if you’re keen for a walk the Organ Pipes are a fun spot to visit. It’s also the perfect spot for sunrise in Dunedin.

On the way to Mount Cargill you can also visit Nicols Falls – it’s not on most tourist’s radar but everyone loves a good waterfall (and this one is good, especially after rain).

After Mount Cargill I’d advise a trip out to Port Chalmers . It’s a cute little seaside village, and in better times is where the cruise ships come in. Stop there for lunch or carry on a little further to Careys Bay Hotel. Then drive up the hill to Orokonui (a bird sanctuary) or Heyward Point .

There are some nice beaches in this area, including Long Beach , Purakaunui Beach and Murdering Beach . Next up I’d drive down to Doctors Point , where you can visit the Arches and two other beaches on a short walk (low tide only).

READ MORE: 26 of the Best Beaches in Dunedin

If you’d prefer to do a day hike on this day then I can’t recommend the Silver Peaks highly enough. It’ll take around four hours to do (or longer there’s a hut up there if you want to spend the night) and the views are spectacular. Do check the weather before heading out though – people have had to be rescued before!

READ MORE: 18 of the Best Walks in Dunedin

Five Days in Dunedin

If you have a couple of extra days in Dunedin you could think about visiting some nearby areas. The drive up to Oamaru should take 90 minutes, but there is a lot to see along the way. Highlights include the Matanaka Farm Buildings , the Tavora Reserve and the Moeraki Boulders . You could spend a day or more exploring Oamaru — it’s one of the best towns in the South Island to explore!

READ MORE: 13 of the Best Things to Do in Oamaru

The Catlins is the other obvious day trip destination. Start off by visiting Nugget Point (go for sunrise if you can) and then visit the various beaches and waterfalls throughout the Catlins. There’s a lot to explore, and it’s probably best to stay a night there, but it can easily be done as a day trip. Those two day trips should have you covered on days four and five, or just explore more of the Otago Peninsula!

READ MORE: Catlins Itinerary

Seven Days in Dunedin

Seven Days in Dunedin will allow you to do more of the walks and see more of the over 25 beaches in and around the city. There may seem like too many, but they’re all fun to visit in their own way. You could also spend more time around Port Chalmers, with the trip over to Quarantine Island a good way to spend a few hours. Visit the other musuems or try some more cafes — there are 25 worth going to !

Where to Stay 

There’s a good variety of places to stay in Dunedin in every budget.

• If you are looking for accommodation near The Octagon (city centre), Distinction Dunedin Hotel | Scenic Hotel Southern Cross | Scenic Hotel Dunedin City are familiar options. Some hotels that stand-out in terms of style include Ebb Dunedin |  The Chamberson | Fable Dunedin .
• If you want to stay in a cool apartment near the city centre, there are heaps available in Dunedin including The Terminus |   Chapel Apartments   |   The Stables Dunedin | The Stuart Street Terraced House |  The Thomas Gregg Aparments . 
• If you are after a secluded retreat right at the Otago Peninsula, this place looks so dreamy and comes highly recommended Hereweka Garden Retreat

• A truly unique experience in Dunedin would be to stay in the Larnach Castle complex, check out Camp Estate by Larnach Castle |  Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay . Both of these accommodation options include free entry to Larnach Castle and its gardens. 
• St Clair Beach is definitely one of the highlights of Dunedin. Some great places to stay with views of the sea here include The Hydro Esplanade Apartments |  Hotel St Clair, Dunedin .
• If you’re backpacking in New Zealand and looking for a hostel, consider Chalet Backpackers .

Are you planning a trip around New Zealand? Check out our South Island travel guide !

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