Dunedin & Otago Peninsula: Small-Group Shore Excursion Tour

Summary

Walk steep streets spot sea lions and see Dunedin’s railway beauty

You’ll climb Baldwin Street’s dizzy angle, watch sea lions nap on an Otago Peninsula beach, and wander through Dunedin’s grand old railway station—all with a small group and local guide. Expect salty air, honest laughs, and little moments you’ll remember long after you’re back onboard.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to laugh so much just trying to walk up Baldwin Street. Our guide (I think her name was Jess?) joked that even locals avoid it unless they have to—she wasn’t wrong. The houses looked like they were clinging on for dear life, and we all took turns trying to photograph the tilt without falling over. It’s supposed to be the steepest residential street in the world, but honestly, it felt more like a dare than a road.

After that, we drove out toward the Otago Peninsula. The city faded into rolling green hills and suddenly there was this salty wind coming through the van windows. Jess told us stories about old Dunedin families and pointed out sheep that looked like tiny clouds against the grass. When we reached the beach, she warned us not to get too close to the sea lions (they look lazy but move fast). I’d never seen one before—just lying there with sand stuck all over its fur, blinking at us like we were mildly annoying seagulls. The air smelled cold and a bit fishy, but in a good way—like you’re really somewhere wild.

We stopped at Dunedin Railway Station too. Seven years to build it, apparently. It’s almost too ornate for such a small city—tiles everywhere and people snapping photos of each other under those big arches. I liked just standing outside watching locals hurry past; you can tell who’s from here because they barely glance at it anymore. We had time for coffee nearby (the barista teased me about my accent) before heading back toward port.

I keep thinking about that moment on the beach—the quiet except for waves and some distant gulls arguing over something gross in the sand. It felt like being let in on a secret side of New Zealand most people only see in postcards, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Dunedin and Otago Peninsula

• Stop at steepest residential street
• Walk to see sea lions and fur seals
• Visit historic Dunedin Railway Station

Top questions

How many people are on this Dunedin & Otago Peninsula tour?

This is a small-group tour limited to 19 people per group.

Is pickup included from my cruise ship or hotel?

Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points are included with your booking.

Will I definitely see sea lions or seals during the day trip?

Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed but you will visit beaches where NZ sea lions and fur seals are often found.

How much walking is involved on this Dunedin shore excursion?

A moderate amount of walking is required including uneven surfaces; comfortable shoes are recommended.

What are the main stops on this small-group tour?

You’ll stop at Baldwin Street (the world’s steepest street), an Otago Peninsula beach for wildlife spotting, and Dunedin Railway Station.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health due to some walking.

Are there public transportation options nearby if I need them?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting points in Dunedin.

Does this tour include lunch or snacks?

No lunch or snacks are included; you may have time to buy coffee or food near some stops.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from designated points near your cruise ship or hotel, live commentary from a professional local guide throughout the drive and walks, transport by air-conditioned minivan between sites around Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula, plus plenty of chances to take photos—and maybe grab coffee—before returning to port.