On a late autumn evening in 1861, a lone Australian prospector by the name of Gabriel Read dug a hole in the gravel banks of the Tuapeka River and found "gold shining like the stars of Orion on a dark, frosty night".

Dunedin, as port of entry, saw its population double to 5,850 in six months, then treble again within three years. By 1870, it was unchallenged as New Zealand's largest and richest city. Today it retains much of its gold-built historic charm, and is believed to have one of the best collections of Edwardian and Victorian architecture in the southern hemisphere. more

• Accommodation in Otago
• What to See & Do in Otago
• Accommodation in Southland
• What to See & Do in Southland

Coastal Otago Region Feature

Moeraki Boulders

The naturally spherical boulders at Moeraki are 60 million years old. They have formed around a central core of lime crystals, which attracted and consolidated ingredients from the sea floor. more

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

PLACE

Oamaru

Neoclassical stone buildings and a Victorian precinct are both in their full glory in North Otago's main town. It also has a great vantage point to see penguins waddle ashore after a day catching their food.

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ACTIVITY

Catlins Coast

The Catlins Coast is a rugged stretch of landscape between Balclutha and Curio Bay. Forests, walkways, caves and beaches make up this outdoor paradise.

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ROAD TRIP

Great Kiwi Road Trips

Road trips are as much about the personality of the road as they are the people travelling them. Follow your adventuresome spirit into the sunset. Life’s a journey...take the scenic route.

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