Flights to Dunedin

Know Before You Go

• If you are a health nut, you'll love Dunedin. The city is home to some of the best farmers markets in the world. The herbs and vegetables are fresh all year round, and during the summer months, you'll be spoilt for choice with fruit from Central Otago.
• It's a 20-minute drive from the city centre to some of New Zealand's most beautiful beaches. Sandfly Bay, Allan's Beach, Long Beach and Warrington are some of the best with minimal crowds and loads of photo opportunities.
• Dunedin is a haven for water babies. It has a thriving surf culture with some of the best waves in the country. There are also a plethora of watersports at Otago Harbour. Choose from sailing, waka ama, kayaking, rowing and more.
• Fashion lovers should head to the main strip on George Street. All the best shops are there, and you'll get a feel for the city's dark, risky and unique fashion sense.
• Dunedin is rich with diverse coastal wildlife. Visit Taiaroa Head to see the world's only mainland albatross breeding colony. The area is also home to the world's rarest penguin, the Yellow-Eyed Penguin.

Getting Around Dunedin

Dunedin's Bus Service is one of the cheapest ways to get around the city. The main line runs every 15 minutes and goes past most of Dunedin's attractions. Fares range from NZD 2 to NZD 6.50 depending on the zone. If you are going to be using the bus a lot, buy a GoCard for NZD 5 from the driver and get 10% off every trip.

• The city centre is flat making it easy to cycle around. You can find rentals on Wickliffe Street that cost NZD 10. You will need to check air and oil as well as buy a helmet for NZD 20 if you don't have your own.
• If you want to explore the city on foot, there are paths and walkways all over. There aren't any steep inclines, and the grid system makes it easy to get your bearings and do sightseeing at your own pace.
• There aren't any suburban trains in Dunedin, but you can take scenic day trips from the city's Taeri Gorge Railway.
• Due to Dunedin's compact size, taxi fares are affordable. But if you want more freedom, there are many car hire companies in the city. Rentals range from NZD 125 to NZD 339 per day.

When is The Best Time to Visit Dunedin?

The most popular time to visit Dunedin is during its summer months. From November to March, temperatures are mild, and the climate is dry. Tourist attractions are at their busiest between December and January when locals and foreign tourists flock to the city. Hotels and airfares are at their highest during this period, so book your flights and accommodation in advance to lock in lower prices.

If you are on a budget, visit Dunedin during May and October. The city is quieter, and hotel rates start to come down. The weather is not too cold, and attractions are cheaper with more discounts on offer. However, keep in mind that prices will start to increase in late October when the high season kicks in.

Spring is another great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. From September, the temperatures will start to warm up, and the landscape will be green and blooming with flowers. Prices are low during this period, and you'll have an easier time finding deals.

While the winter months are cold, the city and its surrounds are still gorgeous. From June to August, you'll find cheaper hotel rates and flights. But if you plan to do a lot of outdoor activities, have a backup plan. Dunedin experiences its highest rainfall during this period.

Airports in Dunedin

Dunedin Airport

Dunedin Airport is a gateway to the wider Otago region in New Zealand. The airport is located 22 km from the city centre and only receives domestic flights from New Zealand and trans-Tasman flights from Brisbane.

Getting To and From Dunedin Airport

The cheapest way to get from the airport into Dunedin is with a shared shuttle service. The shuttles cost NZD 30 to NZD 60 per person depending on the number of people and take 30 minutes to get into the city. If you want to make sure you get a seat, it's advised to book the day before.

Taxis from the airport are a slightly more expensive option to get from the airport to Dunedin. It costs NZD 75 to NZD 80 one-way, but taxis are quicker than a shuttle service as there are fewer stops involved.

If you are travelling to Dunedin as part of a tour, check with your agent to see if there is a free airport pickup / drop off service included in the package.