One of the South Island’s top road trip destinations, the city of Dunedin has it all for campervan travellers. Especially those looking for budget-friendly, Dunedin food and drink experiences. Keen to try out an iconic Dunedin brewery? Fancy a tour of the Ocho Chocolate Factory? Or perhaps you’re just looking for suggestions on must-do Dunedin restaurants to add to your travel itinerary? We’ve got you covered! In this handy guide, we share some of the best Dunedin eateries that won't break the bank but will definitely satisfy your taste buds.
What is Dunedin best known for?
Brimming with natural wonders and historical treasures, Dunedin is a must-visit destination on any South Island travel itinerary. The city is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged coastline that's home to an array of marine life to the lush hills offering up panoramic views. Wildlife enthusiasts will be in their element here, with plenty of opportunities to observe rare species such as the yellow-eyed penguin within their natural habitat. A must-visit while you’re here is the Royal Albatross Centre on the Otago Peninsula.
As New Zealand's oldest city, Dunedin is also a hub of historical and cultural significance. The city's architecture, with unique landmarks like Larnach Castle, tells the story of its Scottish heritage and colonial past. For those exploring by camper, Dunedin is incredibly accommodating. The city's layout and facilities cater well to the needs of campervan travellers, offering a variety of comfortable spots to park and stay. Whether you're looking to be in the heart of the city or in a more secluded natural setting, Dunedin has you covered.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
When to visit Dunedin
Dunedin shines in every season, offering unique experiences throughout the year for campervan travellers. Here's a breakdown of what to expect in each season:
Summer (December to February) 15°C to 22°C (H3)
The summer months in Dunedin are a fantastic time for campervan adventurers. The days are warm (but not too hot), perfect for beach trips and outdoor activities. Explore the Otago Peninsula, where the wildlife is in full swing, or enjoy the vibrant energy of outdoor markets and festivals. It's the busiest season, so you'll feel the buzz of fellow travellers exploring the city's streets and beaches.
Autumn (March to May) 10°C to 17°C (H3)
The autumn days bring a magical change to the city's landscapes, with vibrant colours perfect for scenic drives in your motorhome. This season is ideal for those who prefer a quieter travel experience. It's a great time to visit local vineyards or take leisurely walks through the city, enjoying the cooler, yet comfortable weather.
Winter (June to August) 7°C to 12°C (H3)
Dunedin’s winters offer a wonderland for those who love crisp, cool weather. It's the perfect season for snow sports in nearby regions, making it a great base for your campervan hire if you're looking to hit the slopes. The city itself offers cosy cafes and vibrant cultural scenes, providing plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.
Spring (September to November) 9°C to 15°C (H3)
A time of renewal and blossoming beauty, spring in Dunedin is ideal for nature lovers. Witness the city and its surroundings come to life with blooming flowers and active wildlife. This season is perfect for outdoor adventures, like hiking and cycling, as the weather starts to warm up, but the summer crowds haven't yet arrived.
The best affordable food and drink experiences in Dunedin
Keen to add a few Dunedin cheap eats to your travel itinerary? We’ve done the research for you and found seven of the best. From local markets to unique factory tours, there's something to satisfy every palate.
1. Stock up on produce at Otago Farmers Market
The Otago Farmers Market is a must-visit for anyone travelling in a campervan. Located at the Northern Carpark of the Dunedin Railway Station, the market runs every Saturday morning, rain or shine, from 8 am to 12.30 pm.
This market, voted the most outstanding farmers market in New Zealand multiple times, is where you'll find the freshest and finest produce from the local Otago region.
With up to 65 vendors at peak season, you can take your pick from a wide array of products including fresh fruits and vegetables, meat products, eggs, baked goods, cheese, nuts, and honey. You'll also find artisan products, freshly roasted coffee, and delicious breakfast and brunch items, including gluten-free and vegan options.
2. Treat yourself to an Ocho Chocolate Factory tour
Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to the Ocho Chocolate Factory. Located on Roberts Street, Ocho (Otago Chocolate Company) offers a unique bean-to-bar experience. The factory runs tasting journeys in their viewing room, The CHOCtagon where you get to taste 10 samples plus take home a choccy bar of your choice. Afterwards, head into the Ocho Café for some seriously good coffee and an Ocho brownie.
3. Enjoy a guided beer tasting at Emerson’s Brewery
For a taste of local craft beer, head over to Emerson’s Brewery in Dunedin. Located on Anzac Ave, Emerson's Dunedin is known for its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor beer garden. This cool Dunedin brewery offers an awesome guided beer-tasting experience, where you can learn about their brewing process and the history behind their craft. The tasting includes a walkthrough of six of Emerson's most important beers. It's a fantastic opportunity to dive into the world of craft beer and learn about what makes Emerson's stand out.
4. Visit the Dumpling Lady Food Truck
Looking for an authentic street food experience? Check out The Dumpling Lady Food Truck. This popular food truck is known for serving up delicious, authentic dumplings that have become a hit with locals and visitors. Take your pick from a delicious variety with something to suit every taste and dietary preference. The Dumpling Lady also makes great sushi and steam buns.
Whether you're in the mood for something meaty or vegetarian, this popular Dunedin food truck has you covered. It's the perfect spot for a quick, tasty, and affordable bite while exploring Dunedin in your campervan.
5. Take a Speights Brewery tour
Discover the rich brewing history of Dunedin with a tour of the iconic Speights Brewery. Celebrating over 141 years of brewing, Speights Brewery, located on Rattray Street, offers an interactive experience that showcases the history and craft of this celebrated Dunedin brewery. The tour takes you through the historic site, allowing you to see, touch, and smell the ingredients that go into their award-winning beers. And of course, the tour includes a beer tasting session where you can sample a range of their finest brews. After the tour, visit the Speight’s Ale House within the brewery for some tasty southern fare.
6. Try Scandinavian food at Adjo
For a unique dining experience, head over to Adjo. This cosy café, located on George Street, focuses on Nordic cuisine with a tasty twist to the usual dining options. One of their must-try dishes is the Danish meatballs, a classic Scandinavian delight. The café also boasts a selection of creative cocktails, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal or a casual drink. Adjo's intimate setting and focus on emerging artists add to its charm, making it a special place to unwind and enjoy good food during your campervan adventure.
8. Join a talk and tasting session with No. 8 Distillery
Experience the art of distillation at No. 8 Distillery, located on Hanover Street. The distillery is known for using locally sourced native plants and flowers to create unique and awarded spirits. They offer a unique opportunity to join their master distiller for a talk and tasting session. Available Tuesday to Saturday from 12 pm to 5 pm, these sessions offer a deep dive into the world of spirits. The tasting session is a 45–60-minute experience where you can sample a range of their handcrafted spirits.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Where to stay in Dunedin
Dunedin is home to a great selection of campsites and holiday park options for campervan travellers. Here are two of the best.
Dunedin Holiday Park
The city's largest quality holiday park, Dunedin Holiday Park is adjacent to beautiful St Kilda Beach, a short drive from the city centre, making it an ideal base for exploring Dunedin. There are plenty of sites to choose from with excellent facilities including free unlimited Wi-Fi, a children's playground, free barbecues, a TV room with Sky TV, guest laundry, and a dump point for motorhomes and caravans.
Leith Valley Holiday Park
Nestled on the banks of the lovely Leith Stream, Leith Valley Holiday Park is just 1 km from Dunedin's main street. The relaxed, peaceful setting provides a tranquil escape with access to bush walks (complete with glowworms!), yet it's conveniently close to the city's attractions. Take your pick from a great range of sites for caravans and campervans. Guests can enjoy free unlimited Wi-Fi, and the park is close to George Street where you can take your pick of great Dunedin restaurants.
Explore Dunedin with Mighty campers
Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or a history buff, Dunedin has plenty to see and do. Ready to experience the best of this awesome city? Book your Mighty campervan online today and start planning your Southern adventure!
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Image: Tourism New Zealand