.png)
There’s nothing quite like a road trip with your daughter—especially when the destination is as special as Dunedin. Starting from the stunning mountain town of Queenstown, our plan was to take the scenic route through Oamaru, stop by Moeraki Beach, and soak up all the history, art, and local charm that this slice of New Zealand’s South Island has to offer. Buckle up, because this trip was packed with laughter, good food, and a few unforgettable detours. You can also do this trip from Christchurch to Dunedin.
Queenstown to Oamaru: Road Trip Bliss
We set off early, Queenstown’s majestic mountains disappearing in the rearview mirror as we made our way along the road to Oamaru. With the promise of adventure ahead, we couldn’t help but feel excited. The drive itself was beautiful, with rolling hills, wide-open spaces, and more sheep than you could ever count (classic New Zealand). We made a quick pit stop to grab a coffee at a roadside café, the perfect excuse to stretch our legs and take in the scenery.
As we approached Moeraki Beach, we couldn’t resist stopping to check out the famous Moeraki Boulders. These giant, spherical stones scattered along the beach look almost otherworldly, like nature’s very own bowling balls. According to local Māori legend, these boulders are the remains of ancient eel baskets and calabashes washed ashore from the wreck of the legendary Araiteuru canoe. Whether you’re into history or just there for the Instagram moment, the boulders are a must-see.
Exploring Oamaru: Steampunk, History, and Lamb Dinners
From Moeraki, we continued on to Oamaru, a town that feels like stepping back in time. Known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, Oamaru’s Old Town is a treasure trove of history. The stone buildings, built from local limestone, still stand proud and give the town an old-world charm you don’t find every day. The weather was cool and crisp when we arrived, typical for Oamaru in the spring, but it just added to the coziness of wandering the streets.
Oamaru is also famous for its quirky Steampunk Museum, a fun and eccentric attraction that my daughter loved. With its industrial art, interactive displays, and wild contraptions, the museum has a way of sparking the imagination. The showings that day featured some jaw-dropping sculptures and machines—imagine Victorian-era technology on steroids, and you’re close to what Steampunk is all about.
We couldn’t leave Oamaru without checking out a couple of art galleries. The town is home to some incredible artists like Donna Demente, whose surreal, mask-like sculptures and paintings are both haunting and beautiful. Another highlight was the Forrester Gallery, showcasing local contemporary works. Oamaru’s art scene is a gem worth exploring.
After a long day of exploring, we treated ourselves to dinner at Cucina, and let me tell you, the lamb was unbelievable! Paired with a glass of local red wine, it was hands-down the best meal we’d had in a long time. Juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection—Cucina is a must-visit for any foodie traveling through Oamaru.
On to Dunedin: Old-World Charm at Majestic Mansions
The next morning, we set off for Dunedin, arriving just in time to check into our cozy apartment at Majestic Mansions in St Clair with art deco architecture by the sea. The place was perfect—an affordable two-bedroom apartment with old-world charm, a sea view, and even a parking spot (a rare treat in coastal towns!). We loved it so much we decided to stay 2 nights. St Clair itself is a gorgeous suburb, known for its beaches, surf, and laid-back vibe. We loved how it was the perfect blend of relaxation and proximity to the city.
That evening, we wandered around St Clair, grabbing dinner at a local spot with live music playing in the background. There’s something magical about eating by the sea, the sound of waves crashing in sync with the acoustic guitar strumming softly in the distance.
A Perfect Day in Dunedin: Beach Walks, Art, and History
The next morning, we started our day with a sunrise beach walk along St Clair Beach—the fresh sea breeze was the perfect way to wake up. Then it was time for breakfast at Buster Greens Café, where we were told they serve the best breakfast in Dunedin. They weren’t wrong! From avocado toast to the fluffiest scrambled eggs, everything was delicious.
Fueled up, we set off to explore Dunedin City. Known for its rich Scottish heritage, Dunedin is a city of history, culture, and art. We wandered through Anzac Square near Castle Street and Anzac Avenue, paying our respects to the memorials and soaking up the solemn history of this important site. Right in front of the square stands the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, a masterpiece of Flemish Renaissance architecture and one of the city’s most photographed buildings. Completed in 1906, it’s a stunning combination of dark basalt and Oamaru limestone, with intricate details that make it feel like a castle straight out of a fairy tale.
The rest of the day was spent hopping between galleries—Dunedin’s art scene is thriving, with local artists displaying everything from street art to fine paintings. We loved The Dunedin Public Art Gallery, which had an eclectic mix of modern and classical works, and The Blue Oyster Art Project Space, which focuses on experimental and emerging art.
As evening rolled around, we treated ourselves to a fancy dinner at Catalyst, a chic restaurant known for its creative menu and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The dishes were as artful as they were delicious, a fitting end to a day of culture and exploration.
Laughs and Fun to End the Trip
We squeezed in a visit to The Otago Museum, where we learned more about the region’s natural and cultural history. To cap off our trip, we caught a comedy show at The Regent Theatre. The laughter was infectious, and it was the perfect way to end our road trip on a high note.
In the morning we drove back toward Queenstown, reflecting on the past few days, it was clear this had been one of our most memorable mother-daughter adventures yet. From the quirky charm of Oamaru to the seaside beauty of St Clair, and the historical wonders of Dunedin, this road trip had it all—art, food, history, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Travel Tips for the Journey:
Best time to visit: In summer (December-February), the days are long and warm, perfect for beach walks and outdoor activities. In winter (June-August), Dunedin can be cold, but the cozy cafés and museums make up for it.
Packing tip: Always bring layers. New Zealand’s South Island weather can be unpredictable, and you’ll want to be ready for sun, wind, or rain.
Driving advice: The roads are scenic but winding, so take your time and enjoy the views. There are plenty of great stops along the way to stretch your legs.
PlanGo is here to help you experience the best of New Zealand. Have you been to Larnach Castle in Dunedin?
Book it for your trip!
Comments