Leaving Aoraki area, we headed south towards Dunedin. The estimated time of the drive is 4.5 hours. In the end, we took almost the whole day due to multiple stops (Clay Cliff, Elephant Rocks, Lunch at Fleur's Place and finally the renowned Moeraki Boulders) in between. Kindly allocate more time if you want to truly enjoy the road trip, hehe. Warning for long post ahead!
Clay Cliff
Address: Henburn Road, Omarama 9412, New Zealand.
The cliff is located on a private land, where you need to drive an unpaved road to reach the entrance gate. There is a donation box in front of the gate, just drop entry fee ($5 per car), unlock the gate and drive in. It was a relatively short and easy hike to explore these staggering natural land forms. Wouldn't really say that it is extremely magnificent and you could totally skip this one if you are rushing for time.
Elephant Rocks
Address: Island Cliff 9494, New Zealand.
It was hard to locate this place as we lost our data signal along the way. The exact location also couldn't be found in our GPS device. My dad actually recognized it in Narnia movie on the other day, haha! The drive here is especially rewarding as we were treated to a mesmerizing view of a spacious grassland with interesting rocks. Too bad that the famous Elephant Rock lost its trunk during an earthquake. Still worth a visit though!
Fleur's Place
Address: 169 Haven Street, at the Old Jetty, Moeraki, New Zealand.
Opening Hours: 9am to 10pm (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Incredible restaurant ~ Even though the food is not exactly cheap, the quality and tastiness of the food make up for the price. The breathtaking view around the restaurant is definitely another plus point. It is recommended to make your reservation beforehand to minimize the waiting time. We were lucky enough to just have to wait for half an hour before getting seated. We ordered a couple of dishes for sharing, including the delectable blue cod (must-try dish). You can always ask the helpful lady at the ordering counter for recommendation.
Moeraki Boulders
Address: Moeraki Village, Oamaru, New Zealand.
Located just 10-min drive away from Fleur's Place, we made a quick visit to the place after our fulfilling lunch. As compared to the previous 2 attractions, this one is much more well-known and full of avid tourists. With mysterious spherical stones scattered across a beach, it is quite a spectacular scene and makes it a fantastic spot for photographers.
Hokey pokey flavoured ice-cream, branded as a local favourite!
Baldwin Street
Address: North East Valley, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Finally arrive in Dunedin. The weather was gloomy. We decided to visit a few attractions first. Our first stop was Baldwin Street, the steepest residential street in the world. Of course, an expert driver might want to challenge his driving skill here. Considering the size of our vehicle, my dad deciced to give up the challenge, haha.
Dunedin Railway Station
Address: 22 Anzac Ave, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand.
The next one was the photogenic Dunedin Railway Station. You will be amazed by the fine delicate details of the building. We spent a good 15 minutes there to take some pretty photos (actually not so pretty due to the dim lighting).
Dunedin Big Apartment
Address: Flat 1, 67 Manor Place, Dunedin Central.
Price: 43 NZD per person
Never judge a book by its cover. Even though the flat looked old from the exterior, it was in fact cozy and well-furnished within. One of the best accommodation that we had in NZ. Even DVDs and board games are provided, how thoughtful especially we all know that the nightlife in NZ is lacking (if you are not a fan of drinker). Also a good chance to get your laundry done as dryer is available for use without additional charge.
Address: 145 Camp Rd, Dunedin 9077.
Opening Hours: From 9am daily
Entrance Fee (for both castle and garden): 31 NZD (Adults), 10 NZD (Child aged between 5 to 14)
As the only castle in NZ, Larnach castle definitely gains a lot of attention. It is considered as tiny as compared to those huge castles in Europe as you could imagine. If you are not in a rush or on a tight budget, it is worth exploring the history of the house and the beauty of the gardens. Came across multiple reviews recommending the high tea set at Ballroom Cafe were delicious as well but we didn't have time to give it a taste.
It was a bath tub for an adult, kinda shocking to me.
After saying goodbye to Dunedin, we continued our drive to Queenstown! Stay tuned!
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