Dunedin and the Taieri Gorge Railway: New Zealand's Most Scenic Shore Excursion

Dunedin's Railway Station is beautifully restored to its 1906 grandeur. 

Dunedin is known as the Edinburgh of New Zealand, and has the green one sees in Scotland.

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

PHOTOS By BRUCE MEYERS

"The Carpe Diem Kids"

Editor's Note: This piece was reviewed and updated July 21, 2026

Stepping ashore in Dunedin is like discovering a little piece of Scotland in the heart of New Zealand's South Island. Known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, friendly atmosphere, and dramatic landscapes, Dunedin is also home to one of the country's most spectacular rail journeys -- the Taieri Gorge Railway. As our cruise excursion wound through deep river gorges, towering viaducts, hand-carved tunnels, and rolling countryside, we quickly discovered why this scenic train ride is considered one of New Zealand's premier travel experiences. Whether you're arriving by cruise ship or exploring independently, Dunedin and the Taieri Gorge Railway offer an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking scenery and fascinating history.

Dunedin offers art aplenty, often in unexpected places. It's a splendid place for a few days.

WHEN THE Scots came to Dunedin in 1848 they brought their culture along -- from bagpipes to cattle to a love of flowers and yes, haggis, that traditional Scottish dish.

But if you don't like the squeal of the pipes or the mess of innards and arcane cooking methods, never mind.

Dunedin has plenty of modern day appeal.

The approach, via a pretty bay, begins the day.  You'll see lumber -- a major industry, and a well planned one -- an interesting skyline and plenty of critters, trees and flowers.

DUNEDIN has the feel of a big city minus the crime, pollution and sleaze.  The country's second largest town has a distinct, rural feel. You'll see plump sheep grazing on the drive into town -- the harbor is a few miles from city center.  And you'll see dairy cattle, responsible for beautiful cheese you'll find at the fashionable shops.

Rare penguins on the south island.

Dunedin and the Taieri Gorge Railway Once in town, head to the train station to book a trip on the famed then enjoy the galleries, churches and restaurants galore -- we had a Turkish wrap and Greek food one day, gorgeous lamb chops on another. But the rail journey is the real highlight.

From breathtaking gorges to sparkling coastlines and festive adventures, every journey with Dunedin Railways is uniquely memorable.

Ride the world-famous Taieri Gorge, take in ocean views on the Seasider, or join one of our special event trains for a trip to remember.

DUNEDIN ALSO has plenty of city allure, including the southern hemisphere's second-most-photographed building, the iconic Dunedin Railway Station.  

Lumber is a huge industry in Dunedin. The Taieri Gorge Railway offers a spectacular country ride.

Fully restored to its 1906 splendor, it hosts a weekly farmers' market and is where you'll go to book rail trips on the Taieri Gorge or elsewhere.

The Taieri Gorge Railway takes viewers into the mountains and valleys near Dunedin.

Dunedin's famous and elegant Railway Station.

Known as the Edinburgh of New Zealand, Dunedin is the country's city of the south, wearing its Scottish heritage with pride. Surrounded by dramatic hills and at the foot of a long, picturesque harbor, Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the southern hemisphere.

ACCOMMODATIONS are varied and abundant, from charming B&Bs to luxury hotels such as the Hotel Regis, the St. Clair or Southern Cross.

There's lots of nightlife, including funky, colorful places that reminded us of Melbourne's showy "after hours" places. The food is as varied as the hotels, the bistros architecturally unique -- fascinating.

WE DROVE up the Otago Peninsula -- the views are broad and beautiful and the beaches are rugged.

Nestled at the foot of Taiaroa Head is the Royal Albatross Center, the only place on the mainland where you can view Northern Royal Albatross in its natural habitat. You'll also find near Dunedin a rare penguin colony. We even found a shop selling vegetarian haggis! No mess, no fuss!

dunedinrailways.co.nz

Wellington's much loved cable car begins its journey, full of both locals and tourists.

COMING UP: Cable cars, vintage autos and organ music as we take readers to the exciting and beautiful city of Wellington, New Zealand. We found the people friendly, the museums unique and varied -- and free -- and we have returned twice to the city to enjoy the art, music and food. Join us and please share the links, remembering to explore, learn and live and visit us weekly at: www.whereiscookie.com