New Zealand's most Scottish of cities has a lot to shout about. Dunedin - which is actually the ancient name of Edinburgh, boasts a slew of "firsts" and "onlys".
It is home to New Zealand's only castle, the steepest urban street in the world, the nation's first botanic garden, our oldest
university, the most photographed building in New Zealand, the world's rarest penguin. ... and on the list goes.
Take a break in Scarfie city and you'll be in for a bonnie old time, with an extravagant range of unique attractions and treasures.
Architecture buffs are spoilt for choice, with Dunedin rightly regarded as our nation's heritage capital. The gold rush of the 1860s gave rise to the rich legacy of Victorian and Edwardian buildings scattered about the city centre. The soaring stonework splendour of Otago Railway Station is New Zealand's most-photographed building (I suspect part of the reason is because you'll find yourself taking multiple shots from many angles in a bid to capture its full glory).
The only passenger service that runs from the station nowadays is the spectacular Taieri Gorge Railway. The 78km journey bustles out of Dunedin into the fertile folds of the Taieri plains before climbing into the Taieri River Gorge. The gorge's sheer cliffs and steep ravines make for a thrilling journey.
The railway station also plays host to the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame. This pantheon of sporting triumph showcases memorabilia from dozens of our national legends, ranging from Sir Bob Charles and Ian Ferguson to Bert Sutcliffe and the "Originals" - the All Blacks of 1905.
The heart of Dunedin is unquestionably the Octagon, surrounded by heritage buildings, churches and the grand statue of the Scottish bard, Robbie Burns.
Be sure to set aside time to explore the gem in the southern crown, Larnach Castle. Built in 1871 by William Larnach for his beloved wife Eliza, Larnach Castle's exterior took 200 workmen three years to complete, before an army of master European craftsmen devoted 12 years to furnishing the interior. No expense was spared, and the superbly preserved castle bulges with tragic and scandalous stories.
Another highly recommended attraction is Dunedin's historic home of Olveston. Situated in the inner city, the century-old mansion oozes Jacobean grace and grandeur, and the period furnishings have been zealously safeguarded.
For a complete change of scenery, take a guided tour around the Cadbury Factory, nibbling en route. The showpiece is a tantalising five-storey-high chocolate waterfall. Every home should have one.
TOP TIPS
* For comprehensive information on the wealth of attractions that Dunedin has to offer, including dining and accommodation options, check out the official visitor website: www.dunedinnz.com. It is strongly advised you book in advance, to experience the Taieri
Gorge Railway.
* For full details and reservations go to www.taieri.co.nz.
Southern comforts
New Zealand's most Scottish of cities has a lot to shout about. Dunedin - which is actually the ancient name of Edinburgh, boasts a slew of "firsts" and "onlys".
It is home to New Zealand's only castle, the steepest urban street in the world, the nation's first botanic garden, our oldest
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