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Dunedin Otago - on the South Island's south eastern coast, has a strong Scottish heritage, stunning architecture, and New Zealand's oldest university, and is a centre for arts and culture. The Otago Peninsula is home to colonies of rare birds and many unique species of wildlife.
Dunedin Otago - The Scotland of the South The picturesque Dunedin and Coastal Otago region stretches between the Waitaki (in the north), and Clutha (in the south) rivers, and is located east of Central Otago . To the south sits Southland (naturally!), and to the north, Christchurch and Canterbury. 
Dunedin, the South Island's second largest city, is one of New Zealand's oldest, and has a rich Scottish heritage.
Located on the shores of a stunning harbour, Dunedin is a beautiful spot to base yourself in for a few days while you explore the region. Dunedin is the hub of the region and is a bustling city with a strong sporting culture. Home to the Otago Highlanders rugby team and scene of many epic international rugby battles between the New Zealand All Blacks and touring teams, the local rugby stadium gained a 
reputation as a feared venue, and became known as the "House of Pain". New Zealanders really love their rugby!
The Otago Peninsula is also a nature lover's paradise, and is home to an albatross colony at Taiaroa Head, rare yellow eyed penguins, New Zealand fur seals, and several species of dolphin. And near the coastal town of Oamaru, visitors can see a blue penguin colony. Dunedin Otago has numerous wonderful walks and mountain biking tracks. For the energetic, popular activities include kayaking, fishing for trout on the Clutha river, catching a wave at St Clair, and visiting the unusual dome like boulder formations at Moeraki beach. Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about hotels in Dunedin Dunedin Otago - An Interesting Heritage The original Maori people named the area Otepoti, and first came to the region around 1100AD. Dunedin city was planned in the early 1840s as a Scottish settlement. The first settlers arrived soon after and, following the discovery of gold in the 1860s, Dunedin developed into one of New Zealand's leading commercial centres. 
The famous Otago gold rush was like a magnet, and attracted many new residents, drawn by the promise of riches. Chinese, Italians, Germans, French, and Irish settlers poured into the region and contributed to the multi cultural feel of the region. Chinese cultural links are still very much in evidence.
Many of Dunedin's buildings date back to the gold rush era. First Church, University of Otago's clock tower, Larnach Castle and the Otago Boys High School were all constructed in the late 1800s, and the Dunedin railway station was completed in 1906. The coastal town of Oamaru (north of Dunedin) is well known for its Edwardian and Victorian architecture, with whitestone being a popular material. Dunedin Otago - Nature and Wildlife The Otago Peninsula has the only mainland albatross colony in the world, and is home to around 140 of these amazing birds. With a huge wingspan of up to 3 metres, albatross are capable of speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour (100 kilometres per hour). Nature lovers are also drawn to the area by the chance to see the rarest penguin of them all, the yellow eyed or hoiho. 
The University of Otago Marine Studies Centre houses various displays which showcase the region's underwater life, and at Oamaru you can observe a colony of blue penguins. Many of the region's rare species survive because of breeding programs and protected habitats. Locals are very protective of their wildlife and environment and ensure that tours are supportive of their protection. A protective fence gives the inhabitants of the Orokonui Eco sanctuary the perfect environment in which to thrive and survive. There are also several eco friendly accommodation options in the region, such as Highland Peaks and Kaimata Retreat. Dunedin Otago - Arts and Culture Dunedin has a deserved reputation as a centre for education, culture and art, and over the years has been home to a wide range of the countries most respected musicians, artists, poets and writers. 
As mentioned earlier, Victorian and Edwardian architecture is the dominant theme. Many buildings have retained their structure and style, but have been "modernised" for alternate uses, such as the Dunedin railway station, which is now home to the Speight's brewery. And the beautiful Chinese gardens are a living link to the areas Chinese culture. The Otago Settlers' museum is a great place to gain an understanding of early life in the region and of the influence of the Scottish settlers. And the famous Taieri Gorge railway is the perfect way 
to experience the rugged Otago landscape. Covering 77 kilometres, the trip takes you through the Taieri River Gorge, over viaducts and through 100 year old tunnels. Well worth a trip.
The historic Dunedin Public Art Gallery has been operating since 1884, and houses a comprehensive collection of art from around the world. Exhibitions are also held at the University of Otago and the Otago Museum, and the region has a vibrant music and theatre culture. Dunedin is also home to the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame. Dunedin Otago - DID YOU KNOW * Fort Taiaroa was established more than 100 years ago as protection from a possible Russian invasion! An albatross colony now sits above the fort. 
* Dunedin boasts many New Zealand "firsts". The first university, first female lawyer, first public art gallery, and the first dental and medical schools. * Dunedin is the Celtic form of Edinburgh. The original design of the city was based on Edinburgh, but was amended to cater for local terrain, including the world's steepest street, Baldwin street (if you have the chance, take a drive to the top. You will not believe the gradient).
For more information on Dunedin Otago click here to go to the Tourism New Zealand site.
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