The Edinburgh Realty eNewsletter

Things to Do This Summer in Otago

The Otago region is a place that sparks the imagination, blending rich history, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a vibrant culture of creativity. Whether you’re a local uncovering hidden treasures or a visitor eager to explore, Otago offers a wealth of experiences that reflect its distinctive character. From scenic road trips through golden hills and rugged coastlines to indulging in locally crafted culinary delights, there’s always something new to discover in this remarkable region.

Activities and Experiences

• Otago Farmers Market (Dunedin): A food lover’s haven, the Otago Farmers Market is held every Saturday at the Dunedin Railway Station. Enjoy fresh produce, artisan goods, and coffee from local vendors. Arrive early—popular stalls sell out fast!
• Cruise the Otago Harbour (Dunedin): Explore the scenic Otago Harbour with operators like Monarch Wildlife Cruises or Port to Port, offering wildlife tours, maritime history trips, and ferry services. 
• Beach Dreaming (Dunedin): Dunedin boasts 30+ beaches within 30 minutes of the city. Perfect for surfing, swimming, or relaxing.
• Highland's Motorsport Park (Cromwell): A thrill-seeker's paradise, Highlands Motorsport Park offers high-speed go-karting, scenic hot laps, and an impressive car museum. Perfect for adrenaline junkies and motorsport enthusiasts alike.

Outdoor Fitness

• Dunedin/Mosgiel Walking Tracks: Dunedin's walking tracks provide a challenging and outstanding way to experience the scenery around the city. Choose from a range of tracks and trails to explore a breadth of Dunedin’s landscapes and take in the beauty of the city and its coast. Choose a track to match your skills, fitness and the experience you want.
• Otago Biking Trails: From family-friendly forest rides to thrilling downhill tracks, Otago's mountain biking scene offers something for everyone.
  • Signal Hill (Dunedin) is a local favourite, with trails suitable for all levels.
  • Whare Flat (Dunedin) offers more challenging trails with natural terrain, perfect for experienced riders looking for variety.
  • Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail (Cromwell): This scenic trail winds along the shores of Lake Dunstan, offering a mix of easy and moderate sections with spectacular views of the lake.
  • Otago Central Rail Trail (start in Clyde or Middlemarch): A must-do for cycling enthusiasts, this flat, 150km trail follows a historic railway line through Otago’s dramatic landscapes.
• Otago Golfing: Otago's golfing scene is as varied as its landscapes, with courses that reflect the regions beauty. We have some great mini golf courses, too.
  • St Clair Golf Club (Dunedin), known for its stunning coastal views,
  • Island Park Golf Club (Dunedin) offers great value, with a welcoming nine-hole course that’s sheltered from the wind.
  • Taieri Lakes Golf Course (Mosgiel) is nestled amongst farmland at the bottom of Three Mile Hill. It is the only 18-hole course serving the greater Mosgiel / Taieri area.
  • Cromwell Golf Club Championship Course (Cromwell) the most inland links course in New Zealand. 

Kids Activities
Creeks, Pools & Waterholes

• St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool (Dunedin): Soak in this heated salt water pool with stunning ocean views. Families can enjoy the toddler-friendly space and the occasional surprise splash from the Pacific. Afterward, visit the Long Dog Café for a post-swim treat.
• Outram Glen (Taieri): Perfect for riverside picnics under shady trees and pebble castle-building.
• Evansdale Glen (East Otago): Swim in shady pools, explore waterfalls, and visit Arc Brewery for a refreshing drink.
• Moana Pool (Dunedin): Packed with summer fun, including a wave pool, lazy river, and hydroslides.
• Kiwi Water Park (Cromwell): Dive into a floating playground on Lake Dunstan, complete with giant inflatables, obstacle courses, and endless family-friendly fun—the perfect way to cool off and enjoy summer!

Playgrounds and Family Fun

• Brighton Boat Hire (Dunedin): Experience a nostalgic summer adventure by paddling along Otokia Creek in kayaks, canoes, or paddle boats. After your paddle, grab a real fruit ice cream from the nearby dairy. 
• Arthur Street Playground (Dunedin): Famous for its side-by-side slide and flying fox.
• Marlow Park (Dunedin): A Dunedin classic with its iconic dinosaur slide and proximity to St Kilda Beach.
• Mornington Park (Dunedin): Perfect for its inner-city views and proximity to Patti’s and Cream Scoop Shop for handmade ice cream.
• Wals Plant Land (Mosgiel): Enjoy mini golf, train rides, the Topiary Café, and a maze for an all-in-one day out.
• Brighton Gala Day (Dunedin): Enjoy rides, food, and over 150 stalls at the Brighton Gala Day, Sunday, 19 January 2025, 10am–5pm, Brighton Domain. Free entry!
• Mosgiel A&P Show (Mosgiel): A beloved local tradition, this annual show celebrates rural life with livestock displays, equestrian events, family entertainment, and plenty of food and craft stalls—fun for all ages!
• Big Fruit Reserve Playground (Cromwell): Situated right beside Cromwell’s famous ‘big fruit’, the reserve’s playground is positively bursting with colour and boasts an array of play equipment.

Food & Drink
Restaurants

• Patti’s & Cream Scoop Shop (Dunedin): Located in Mornington, this ice cream shop is known for its inventive flavours like cheese and pear, bacon, and organic apple pie. Made in small batches with local ingredients, it's a must-try while enjoying city views from the nearby park.
• Gelato Junkie (Dunedin): A trained chef turned gelato expert, Gelato Junkie offers delicious handcrafted flavours right in Dunedin’s Octagon.
• Rob Roy Dairy Designer Desserts (Dunedin): For over 30 years, Rob Roy Dairy has been the place to go for frozen desserts, shakes, and smoothies.
• Long Dog (Dunedin): At St Clair Beach, this café serves wholesome, local fare with ocean views and fresh air.
• Beach Café (Dunedin): A bright, cosy café in Brighton, offering fresh, globally inspired dishes and renowned seafood chowder.
• Harbourside Grill (Dunedin): Located in the former Dunedin Customhouse, this restaurant offers fresh fish, shellfish, and plant-based options with stunning views of Otago Harbour.
• Starfish, Salt, and The Esplanade (Dunedin): Popular spots right by St Clair Beach, offering fresh food and great drinks.
• The Blackstone Cafe and Bar (Mosgiel): A cosy restaurant in the heart of Mosgiel, serving tender steaks, tasty burgers and amazing light bites. 
• Blend Espresso (Mosgiel): Serving and catering gourmet modern day and classic food with a twist!
• The Stoaker Room (Cromwell): Local produce grilled, baked, steamed and smoked in French Oak Pinot Noir barrel cookers called 'stoakers'.
• Sera Amano (Cromwell): Delivering the warmth and flavour of Italy with handcrafted pizza and pasta, made with love, passion and the finest ingredients.
• Five Stags (Cromwell): From signature steak dinners to bar snacks to share with friends, experience the warmth of Cromwell hospitality at Cromwell's leading bar/restaurant.

Food Trucks
Otago's food trucks serve up an impressive variety of street food at markets and on the go.

• The Dumpling Lady (Dunedin): Specialising in dumplings, sushi, and steam buns.
• Chinese Crepe (Dunedin): Offering crunchy “bing” crepes with tasty fillings.
• Citizens – Street Food for the People (Dunedin/Mosgiel): Asian-Mexican fusion with bao buns, fries, and tacos. (You might even spot our very own Josh Clark behind the grill)
• Churros Olé (Dunedin/Mosgiel): Vegan-friendly churros served with indulgent sauces and shakes.
• Buffalo's American Food Co (Cromwell): A food truck on Barry Avenue offering a great selection of authentic American-style smash burgers and other classic diner-style food.
• Mr. Pincanha (Cromwell): Bringing a little piece of Brazilian cuisine to New Zealand, discover the ultimate Brazilian barbecue experience.

Whether you’re savoring artisan ice cream, strolling along untouched beaches, or soaking in the golden hues of Otago’s rolling landscapes, this region promises unforgettable adventures. Take the time to explore, indulge, and immerse yourself in the heart of Otago. Whatever your journey brings, the region offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and a warm, welcoming spirit.