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How to Get to Dunedin

How to Get to Dunedin

Dunedin Otago, New Zealand Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Flights

Dunedin International Airport (DUD) serves as the main air gateway for the Otago region.

Air Information

  • Domestic Airlines: Air New Zealand connects DUD to Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), Christchurch (CHC). Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts.
  • International Flights: No direct scheduled international flights to DUD. Connect using Auckland (AKL), Christchurch (CHC), or Wellington (WLG). Skyscanner for global searches.
  • Seasonal Rates: Prices increase during peak summer (Dec-Feb), school holidays, and major events. Book flights well in advance.

Airport Transfers

Dunedin Airport sits approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) southwest of the central area. Several transport options are available.

Transfer Options

  • Transport Services: Super Shuttle and other companies offer shared rides (NZD $25-35/person). Book in advance.
  • Taxis: Readily available outside terminal. Approx. NZD $60-80 to city center.
  • Rental Cars: Major companies (Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty) have airport counters.

Airport Facilities

Dunedin International Airport offers standard facilities including cafes, rental car desks, ATMs, and duty-free shopping.

Domestic Connections

Stewart Island Flights also offers scenic flights to Stewart Island from Dunedin.

Budget Transfer

The Orbus public bus (Route 19) provides a limited, budget-friendly service between the airport and city center.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Services

  • Train: No intercity passenger train for general transport. Dunedin Railways (Taieri Gorge Railway) offers scenic tourist excursions.
  • Long-distance Bus: InterCity is the main provider, connecting Dunedin with Christchurch, Queenstown, The Jewel of the south, and Invercargill.
  • GreatSights: Operates scenic bus tours that include Dunedin stops, combining transport with guided commentary.
  • Booking: Book bus fares online in advance for better rates.

Self-Driving in NZ

  • Requirements: Valid full driver's license (in English or with IDP). Most rentals need drivers 21+. Credit card for deposit.
  • Driving Side: Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Dunedin roads are steep/winding. Main highways are good; rural roads can be narrow. Prepare for changing conditions.
  • Safety: Adhere to strict speed limits (50 km/h urban, 100 km/h open road). Be aware of fatigue, livestock, and single-lane bridges. Drink-driving laws are strict.

Rental Car Companies

International Brands

Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty. Offer wide selection and airport/city locations. Consider DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.

Local Operators

Dunedin Car Rentals, Jucy, Apex Car Rentals. Often more budget-friendly. Jucy also has campervans.

Booking & Insurance

Book online in advance for best rates and availability. Insurance is an extra price and highly recommended.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise Ship Port

Dunedin is a popular cruise ship destination. Cruise ships typically dock at Port Chalmers, a historic port town.

Port Details

  • Location: Port Chalmers is approximately 20 minutes from the city center by road.
  • Ferry Services: No regular passenger ferry services connect Dunedin to other cities or regions of New Zealand for general transport.
  • River Transport: Not applicable for intercity travel. Dunedin's rivers are not used for significant passenger transport.

Immigration & Transfers

Procedures for entering New Zealand usually happen on board the ship or at the Dock Chalmers terminal.

Arrival Process

  • Immigration: Complete any New Zealand Traveller Declaration forms.
  • Connections: Cruise lines typically provide transport buses to central Dunedin.
  • Taxis: Taxis may also be available at the port for direct transfers into the city.

Biosecurity Screening

Strict biosecurity checks apply upon arrival, even for cruise passengers.

Port Town Charm

Port Chalmers itself offers historic appeal and independent shops.

Effortless Transfers

Pre-arranged shuttles from cruise lines simplify city access.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Understand the final steps for your departure from Dunedin.

Departure Details

  • Exit Fees: The Worldwide Visitor Preservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) is paid during NZeTA/visa application, not at departure. No separate departure taxes at Dunedin Airport.
  • Timing: For domestic flights, arrive at least 60 minutes before departure. For international connections, allow 2-3 hours at the larger airport.
  • Biosecurity: All bags must be free of restricted food, plant, or animal products before arriving at the airport.

Airport Facilities

Dunedin International The airport provides standard facilities for departing travelers.

Services Available

  • Check-in counters for domestic flights.
  • Security screening points.
  • Cafes for refreshments before your flight.

Seamless Departures

Efficient Process

The compact nature of Dunedin Airport makes the departure process generally efficient.

Biosecurity Compliance

Adhering to biosecurity regulations beforehand speeds up your airport experience.

Connecting Flights

Allowing ample time for domestic transfers at larger airports prevents stress.

Departure Wisdom

Verify luggage allowances and restrictions with your airline before packing.

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