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Dunedin & Central Otago

A New Zealand campervan holiday to Dunedin and Central Otago offers a truly unique travel experience. Situated on the southeastern coast of the South Island, Dunedin is known for its Scottish heritage and Victorian and Edwardian architecture, while Central Otago, a short drive inland, offers dramatic landscapes characterised by rugged mountains, rolling plains, and crystal-clear lakes. Dunedin is a city that prides itself on its educational and cultural richness, home to the prestigious University of Otago and an array of museums and galleries. Dunedin’s weather can be cooler than other parts of New Zealand, with crisp, clear days perfect for exploring the historic streets or nearby natural attractions.

Central Otago offers a stark contrast with its semi-arid terrain, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as biking along the Otago Central Rail Trail and wine tasting at some of New Zealand's highest altitude vineyards. The region's dry climate and dramatic seasonal changes serve as a stunning backdrop for adventure and relaxation alike. Park up overnight in a Dunedin holiday park or find a secluded spot near one of Central Otago's picturesque lakes. With the convenience of your campervan, you can comfortably switch between urban exploration in Dunedin and remote escapes in the wilds of Otago. Whether you're drawn to Dunedin's cultural scene or the rugged beauty of Otago’s outdoors, this region promises a memorable experience.

 

Why explore Dunedin & Central Otago by campervan

Exploring Dunedin and Central Otago by campervan is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the region's unique blend of cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. With a campervan, you dictate the pace and path of your journey. In Dunedin, you can easily navigate from the bustling shopping centre to quiet, windswept beaches along the Otago Peninsula. In Central Otago, the freedom to roam allows you to discover hidden gems, from secluded vineyards to historic gold mining towns, all at your own pace. The ability to spontaneously decide where to go next, from a morning exploring Dunedin’s architectural marvels to an afternoon tasting pinot noirs amidst the hills of Central Otago, is a true luxury.

Travelling by campervan not only offers all the comforts of home, including your own kitchen, bed, and living space but also saves you the hassle of packing and unpacking at each new destination. Plus, having your own facilities means you’re never far from a homecooked meal or a comfortable bed, even if you find yourself in the remote reaches of the region.

 

Things to do in Dunedin & Central Otago

Dunedin and Central Otago abound with diverse attractions, blending rich history with exhilarating outdoor pursuits and gourmet experiences. In Dunedin, discover the opulence of Larnach Castle or engage with local history at the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum. For wildlife lovers, the area offers close encounters with unique species like the yellow-eyed penguin. Moving inland to Central Otago, you can hit the scenic cycle trails, savour exquisite pinot noirs at local vineyards, or try gold panning in Cromwell. Activities like water sports on Lake Dunstan also offer plenty of thrills, ensuring every traveller finds something to cherish.

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    An Apollo campervan offers you the freedom to create your own travel itinerary. From whale watching in Kaikoura to southern...
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Popular Dunedin & Central Otago road trips & itineraries

Dunedin and Central Otago, situated in the southern part of New Zealand's South Island, are regions steeped in natural beauty and cultural richness. Travelling by campervan allows you to freely explore the varied landscapes – from Dunedin’s rugged coastline to Central Otago’s golden hills – and discover a network of routes dotted with historical sites, quaint towns, and scenic camping spots. Whether cruising through Dunedin’s architectural marvels or winding through the vineyard-clad valleys of Central Otago, each journey is an invitation to delve deeper into the heart of the south. 

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Great savings on your New Zealand road trip

Apollo offers a fantastic selection of deals and specials for those looking to explore New Zealand by campervan. From hot deals and last-minute discounts to long-term hire benefits, you’re sure to find a deal designed to help you make the most of your campervan adventure. 

Long Hire Offer Long Hire Offer

Long Hire Offer

Do you love road trips across New Zealand as much as we do? You're in luck with our Long Hire Offer! If you are travelling for more than 21 days, you will receive 5% off daily vehicle rates, if...
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Apollo Campervan branches

Christchurch

Setting out from Apollo's Christchurch branch, the road trip through the Canterbury Plains and alongside the Southern Alps is breathtaking, with stops like Lake Tekapo and the historic town of Oamaru enriching your travel experience. 

Queenstown

Departing from Apollo's Queenstown branch, you're perfectly positioned to explore both the adventurous heart of the South Island and the tranquil beauty of Central Otago before reaching Dunedin. 

Auckland

From Apollo Auckland, the multi-day trip to Dunedin and Central Otago – we suggest 10-14 days – offers a comprehensive tour of the North and South Islands, including crossing the Cook Strait by ferry. 

Auckland City Skyline

Auckland

New Zealand’s multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture.

 

Christchurch City, New Zealand

Christchurch

 One of the world’s most unique destinations.

 

Queenstown

Breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities.

 

Helpful tips for visiting Dunedin & Central Otago

 

Climate and seasons in Dunedin & Central Otago

Dunedin and Central Otago offer distinct climate experiences that reflect the diverse landscapes of the southern part of New Zealand’s South Island.

Dunedin enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, tempered by its coastal position.

  • Summer (December to February) are generally mild, with temperatures hovering around 15°C to 22°C, ideal for enjoying outdoor activities along the city’s beaches and exploring the lush Otago Peninsula.

  • Autumn (March to May) sees cooler temperatures and is a great time to witness the changing colours of the city's abundant foliage.

  • Winter (June to August) in Dunedin can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5°C to 10°C, but the city’s historical and cultural sites continue to draw visitors.

  • Spring (September to November) rejuvenates the city with mild weather and blossoming gardens, perfect for outdoor adventures before the colder months set in.

Central Otago contrasts sharply with a more continental climate, characterised by hot dry summers and cold winters.

  • Summers see temperatures that can climb above 25°C, making it an excellent time for exploring the region’s famous vineyards and outdoor recreational activities.
  • Autumn brings a dramatic change in landscape colour, particularly vivid in the vineyard areas, with cooler but still pleasant temperatures.
  • Winter sees temperatures often falling below freezing, blanketing the region in snow, which transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, popular for photography and winter sports.
  • Spring slowly warms up the land, thawing lakes and rivers, and ushering in a season of growth and renewal.

 

 

 

What to pack

Preparing for your campervan adventure in Dunedin and Central Otago requires thoughtful packing to accommodate the varying climates and activities these regions offer. Here’s what to consider bringing along to make the most of your trip:

  • Outdoor gear: Given the diverse environments in Dunedin and Central Otago, versatile outdoor gear is essential. For Dunedin's coastal walks and city explorations, lightweight, breathable clothing will serve you well, complemented by a waterproof jacket for unpredictable showers. Central Otago's more extreme temperatures call for sun hats and high SPF sunscreen in summer, and warm, insulating layers in winter, especially if you plan to engage in snow sports or explore the frosty landscapes.

  • Campervan add-ons: Enhancing your campervan with a few extras can significantly improve your comfort and convenience. A portable heater might be necessary for chilly Central Otago nights, while a fan can keep you cool during the dry summer heat. Additionally, outdoor chairs and a table will expand your living space, perfect for enjoying the scenic views at your leisure.

  • Sun protection: Sun protection is crucial year-round due to New Zealand’s strong UV rays, particularly in the exposed and high-altitude areas of Central Otago. Pack broad-spectrum sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Insect repellent will also be useful, especially in the warmer months when sandflies and mosquitoes are more prevalent.

For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

 

 

Nearby attractions and day trips from Dunedin & Central Otago

 

  • The Otago Peninsula tretching along the southern edge of the Otago Harbour, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and incredible wildlife. This area is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities to see rare yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and the only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross in the world. The peninsula’s rolling hills and rugged cliffs provide perfect vantage points for breathtaking views and photography.
  • Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle, offers a glimpse into the country’s colonial past, set against the backdrop of expansive gardens and the scenic Otago Peninsula. Built in 1871 by William Larnach, a merchant and politician, the castle features beautifully restored Victorian-era rooms and a unique collection of New Zealand antiques. The gardens are a highlight, recognised as a Garden of International Significance, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Baldwin Street in Dunedin is famous for being the world's steepest residential street, attracting visitors from all over the globe. The street offers a challenging but quirky walk, rising significantly over its short 350-metre length.
  • Dunedin Railway Station is a stunning architectural marvel, known as the ‘Gingerbread House’ because of its ornate Flemish Renaissance style. Completed in 1906, the station is one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. Visitors can admire its detailed mosaic floors, stained glass windows, and grand booking hall. The station also serves as the departure point for scenic railway journeys that explore the spectacular landscapes surrounding Dunedin.
  • Tunnel Beach, just south of Dunedin, offers dramatic coastal scenery with sandstone cliffs, arches, and headlands. Accessible through a short walk that includes a tunnel down to the beach – hand-carved in the 1870s – this spot is perfect for those looking to explore a more secluded part of the coastline. The beach is particularly striking at sunset and is a popular location for romantic walks and picnics.
  • Otago Harbour is a long, narrow inlet associated with the bustling city life of Dunedin and the tranquil beauty of the Otago Peninsula. It's a hub for water activities, including sailing, fishing, and kayaking. The harbour is also a vital part of the local ecosystem, supporting a variety of birdlife and marine species, making it an excellent spot for wildlife watching.
  • Moeraki Boulders, located on Koekohe Beach along the Otago coast, are huge, almost perfectly spherical stones. These natural wonders were created by the cementation of mudstone over millions of years, with some over two metres in diameter.
  • The Catlins Coast, stretching between Balclutha and Invercargill, offers a remote and rugged landscape with a wealth of natural attractions. Visitors can explore dense rainforests and meet unique wildlife. Highlights include Nugget Point with its iconic lighthouse and the dramatic Purakaunui Falls.

For more inspiration, check out our guide to family friendly things to do in Dunedin.

 

Where to stay in Dunedin & Central Otago with a campervan

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to park and rest in Dunedin & Central Otago, there's no shortage of picturesque, comfy campgrounds. Here are a few worth checking out:

Dunedin

 

 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Time to Visit Tasmania

Looking for the best month to travel to Tasmania? Situated at the very bottom of Australia, this island state is known for its incredible natural landscape and having some of the cleanest air in the world. Not only are there many things to do and places to visit in Tasmania all year round but there is also a profusion of events happening every month. So, if you’re looking for the best time to pick up your campervan hire and take a road trip around this Australian state, it’s worth doing some research into the best time to visit Tasmania that aligns with what you like to do and see.

 

The weather in Tasmania

Wanting to find out about the best weather in Tasmania? Unlike some parts of Australia, Tasmania has four distinct seasons. So, if you’re wanting to know what months are hot in Tasmania, summer (December-February) is very pleasant, with temperatures at 17-23 degrees Celsius. In contrast, in winter (June-August), the Tasmania weather drops, and you’ll enjoy a fresh 3-11 degrees Celsius.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are a great middle ground with the Tasmania weather averaging 8-17 degrees Celsius. While spring is considered the wettest time of the year in Tasmania, you’ll be pleased to hear that Hobart remains the second driest capital in all of Australia. Autumn is a very pretty time to partake in a Tasmania road trip, with beautiful autumnal trees lining the roads. Whatever time of the year you visit Tasmania, it’s a good idea to pack both light and warm layers as well as ample sun protection.

 

The busiest time for travel in Tasmania

Due to the warm, dry weather and coinciding with the school holidays, summer is a very popular time to travel across Tasmania. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and experience a lower-key road trip holiday, spring, autumn, and winter are great times to visit Tasmania.

 

The cheapest time for travel in Tasmania

As popular times to visit Tasmania often correlate with increased prices. The cheapest time for travel in Tasmania is outside the peak season of summer and outside of the Australian and New Zealand school holidays. Rates at holiday parks are likely to be lower in winter, spring and autumn. If you are travelling Tasmania in summer, you need to be more prepared and you may need to book experiences and accommodation in advance.

Image: Instagram - @andrewatsonphoto

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Spring

Attend the Tulip Festival

On the second Saturday in October each year, north-western Tasmania bursts into bloom at the Wynyard Tulip Festival. Held at the Table Cape Tulip Farm in Wynyard, this free entry festival celebrates the breathtaking tulips in full bloom alongside an array of food stalls, entertainment, and attractions from across Tasmania. If visiting the Tasmania tulip farm is on your Tasmania things to do list, you’ll want to time your road trip with the spring season.   

 

Visit Brickendon Historic Farm

Add a history education to your Tasmania travel itinerary with the Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village. One of Tasmania’s World Heritage Sites, you can explore this convict-built village including its Gothic chapel, Sussex barns, blacksmith shop and shearing shed. Gain an insight into the life of early convict history in northern Tasmania while the kids will love feeding the friendly farm animals.

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Summer

Attend Tasmania Taste of Summer

Situated on the Hobart Waterfront and one of the best things to do in the Hobart CBD, the Tasmania Taste of Summer is the must do summer event. Held from late December to early January each year, live music sparks the atmosphere as you work your way through more than 80 food and drink stalls. This ticketed event is free for children under 16 and your single day ticket is valid for multiple entries throughout the day.

 

Swim at the amazing beaches

We’ll let you in on a secret, Tasmania has some of the most incredible beaches in Australia and one of the best things to do in Tasmania in summer is to cool down with a beach swim. Named by Lonely Planet as the ‘world’s hottest travel destination’ you’ll find the popular Bay of Fires on Tasmania’s east coast. Due to the east coast’s milder climate, this area is also where you’ll likely find the best weather in Tasmania. After you’ve soaked in the beautiful Bay of Fires, head south to the famous Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park. Wineglass Bay is considered to be one of the top ten beaches in the world and both spots are must-includes on your road trip travel itinerary.

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Autumn

Head out for some hiking

Autumn in Tasmania is the best time to take advantage of the cooler Tasmania weather and beautiful fall scenery. Tasmania has over 2,800 km of walking tracks and more than 880 National Park walks to choose from. Some of the best Tasmania hikes include Organ Pipes in Mt Wellington, the Tasmania Overland Track, and the Three Capes Track.

As previously mentioned, Freycinet National Park is one of the main things to see in Tasmania, but this Tasmania tourist attraction isn’t just known for swimming and Wineglass Bay, it also tops the Tasmania hikes list with a challenging 3-hour return hike – but we can assure you the views are worth the output. If you’re looking for more information on Tasmania hikes, see this Hiking and walking in Tasmania guide and if you’re looking further afield our guide to Family-friendly hikes and walks in Australia will help you out.

 

Visit the wineries

Tasmania weather means its vineyards are thriving. Famous for cool-climate wines and ample vineyards, if you time your Tasmania road trip with autumn, you’ll be arriving just in time for the harvest season. Tamar Valley, located in north Tasmania, is the oldest wine-growing region of the state and is home to 32 wineries that are renowned for their wine-tasting experiences. Secure your Apollo motorhome in one place for the night before enjoying sipping your way through the delectable Tasmania cuisine.

Image: Instagram - @_letsescapetogether_

 

Things to do in Tasmania in Winter

Attend Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest

There’s no better way to embrace winter than by attending the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest. Just a half-hour from Hobart, Huon Valley is known for its beautiful countryside and flourishing apple orchards. It is this apple-picking history that is the foundation of the festival where locals partake in an old English tradition of wassailing, a ritual designed to rid bad luck and ensure a good apple harvest. Outside of this light-hearted ceremony you can enjoy ample food and drink, music, and fireside storytelling.  

 

See the Southern Lights

A true bucket-list experience, seeing the Southern Lights is easily one of the best things to do in Tasmania. Your best chance at witnessing the incredible Aurora Australis is in winter. We recommend heading to Mount Wellington or Mount Nelson, both located just an hour's drive outside of Hobart to increase your chance of seeing the sparkling green flickers light up the night sky. Please note that sightings of this ethereal light show can be fleeting, but if you’re one of the lucky ones, you’ll remember it for the rest of your life.

 

Where to stay in Tasmania

BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park

Award winning for a reason, the BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park is an ideal base for exploring Launceston and northern Tasmania. The kids will be entertained with a playground and a giant jumping pillow while you can make use of the camp kitchen, laundry, and barbecues. Make sure you bring a torch, for each evening an array of wildlife can be spotted from the top of the park.

 

BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park

Found only 300 metres from the St Helens’ waterfront, BIG4 ST Helens Holiday Park has a range of campervan sites on offer, from powered, unpowered, concrete and ensuite. Only a 30-minute drive from the famous Bay of Fires (one of the best places to visit in Tasmania), here you can enjoy the wood-fired pizza and challenge the kids to a game of table tennis.

 

Need an itinerary for your Tasmania Adventure?

Let us take the hard work out for you. Now you know the best places to visit and see in Tasmania, it’s time to plan your campervan itinerary. While how many days is enough in Tasmania depends on you, our 11 day Highlights of Tasmania travel itinerary combines the Tasmania attractions and things to do all in the one road trip.

 

Explore more of Tasmania with Apollo

Hire an Apollo motorhome or camper and discover the best of Tasmania via road trip. Decide what time to visit Tasmania, choose your favourite campervan and book online. You’ll be hitting the road in Tasmania in no time!

Looking for more Hobart attractions and things to do in Hobart? We have you covered:

-  Family-friendly things to do in Hobart

-  Things to do in Hobart

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