Located on the east coast of the South Island, Dunedin city is full of character and history.
Home to the University of Otago, College of Education, and Otago Polytechnic, Dunedin has a large student population which means young people have plenty of things to see and do.
Living in Dunedin as a student
The University campus has a mix of modern and historic buildings, and a fun student atmosphere.
After you get off the bus in the morning, you can meet up with friends at one of the campus cafes before class. Walk together through the heart of the campus to the University of Otago Language Centre, where you’ll feel right at home!
What to do in Dunedin
Start with the Octagon in the central city, where you can visit Dunedin Art Gallery and admire Dunedin’s stunning cathedral before grabbing a coffee from one of the many nearby cafes.
The history of Dunedin goes back to the early New Zealand settlers who were mostly from Scotland. You can see beautiful historic buildings around the city like Olveston House and Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Find out more about Dunedin’s history at the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum.
Climb Signal Hill for great views of the city, and if you’re feeling really energetic, don’t forget to visit Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world!
Eating and drinking in Dunedin
Dunedin has a great range of places to eat and drink. Grab a beer from one of the many bars around the city centre or take a tour of Emerson’s Brewery.
Try some cheap but delicious local food from Mikey’s Kai food truck, or visit the Warehouse Precinct for funky cafes and restaurants, including specialty donut shop, Mama’s Donuts.
The Octagon in the city centre is a great place to meet your friends for an evening drink.
Venues, facilities, and events in Dunedin
Local and international sporting events and concerts are held at the Forsyth Barr Stadium, located very close to the University of Otago Language Centre. Go to a rugby game and have a great time cheering on your local team!
Dunedin Fashion Week is held in April each year at the historic railway buildings, and the spectacular annual Midwinter Carnival includes a parade of giant lanterns through the city centre.
Try some delicious local flavours at the Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival, or learn about Māori culture and traditions at the Puaka Matariki Festival.
What to see and do in the Dunedin region
If you love nature, a visit to the stunning and rugged Otago Peninsula is a must. You’ll see penguins, fur seals and Albatross at the Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head. You’ll also have the chance to see kiwis, New Zealand’s national bird, at Orokonui Ecosanctuary.
Other weekend activities include taking a trip to Tunnel Beach to explore the caves or a bush walk to see the Organ Pipe rock formations. You can also take a scenic train trip through the Taieri Gorge, or travel north to see the famous Moeraki Boulders.
Why learn English in Dunedin?
Choose Dunedin if you want to study English in a classic New Zealand university town, while exploring the beauty of the Otago Peninsula.
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