Melissa's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Taiaroa Head is a headland at the end of the Otago Peninsula in New Zealand, overlooking the mouth of the Otago Harbour. It lies within the city limits of Dunedin. The nearest settlement, Otakou, lies three kilometres to the south.
The cape is home to a lighthouse, built in 1864, and a colony of over 100 northern royal albatrosses, which established itself in 1919– the only such colony on an inhabited mainland. There is also the Royal Albatross Centre.
A small beach, Pilots Beach, is located just inside the harbour entrance to the south of the head, and many forms of marine life, such as New Zealand fur seals and Hooker's sea lions are often to be seen. At Pilots beach is the largest colony of little or blue penguins remaining on the Otago Peninsula. Nearby are important breeding habitats of the threatened yellow-eyed penguin.
Northern royal albatross chick at Taiaroa Head
There may also be seen a number of dusky dolphins, orcas and migratory large whales such as southern rights and humpbacks. Their sightings in these areas are on the increase.
Royal Albatross Tours: visit the only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross in the world. Book a tour to see the amazing Northern Royal Albatross, learn fascinating insights into these majestic monarchs of the sea from expert guides. An exclusive observatory provide visitors with the opportunity to view these charismatic birds raising their young. On a breezy day, you may even see them fly by with their huge 3-metre wingspan – a sight you’ll always remember.
The Royal Albatross Centre is operated by the Otago Peninsula Trust, New Zealand’s first private charitable conservation trust. A proportion of every ticket sold at the centre goes directly towards the fostering and protection of the Northern Royal Albatross.
People come from all over the world to enjoy the spectacular views on the Otago Peninsula, The Wildlife Capital of New Zealand. With its 20 km long harbour, Otago Peninsula is the home of an abundance of magnificent world-famous wildlife. There are over 20 species that breed, live or visit Taiaora Head.
https://albatross.org.nz/
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Taiaroa Head
Taiaroa Head is a headland at the end of the Otago Peninsula in New Zealand, overlooking the mouth of the Otago Harbour. It lies within the city limits of Dunedin. The nearest settlement, Otakou, lies three kilometres to the south.
The cape is home to a lighthouse, built in 1864, and a colony of over 100 northern royal albatrosses, which established itself in 1919– the only such colony on an inhabited mainland. There is also the Royal Albatross Centre.
A small beach, Pilots Beach, is located just inside the harbour entrance to the south of the head, and many forms of marine life, such as New Zealand fur seals and Hooker's sea lions are often to be seen. At Pilots beach is the largest colony of little or blue penguins remaining on the Otago Peninsula. Nearby are important breeding habitats of the threatened yellow-eyed penguin.
Northern royal albatross chick at Taiaroa Head
There may also be seen a number of dusky dolphins, orcas and migratory large whales such as southern rights and humpbacks. Their sightings in these areas are on the increase.
Royal Albatross Tours: visit the only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross in the world. Book a tour to see the amazing Northern Royal Albatross, learn fascinating insights into these majestic monarchs of the sea from expert guides. An exclusive observatory provide visitors with the opportunity to view these charismatic birds raising their young. On a breezy day, you may even see them fly by with their huge 3-metre wingspan – a sight you’ll always remember.
The Royal Albatross Centre is operated by the Otago Peninsula Trust, New Zealand’s first private charitable conservation trust. A proportion of every ticket sold at the centre goes directly towards the fostering and protection of the Northern Royal Albatross.
People come from all over the world to enjoy the spectacular views on the Otago Peninsula, The Wildlife Capital of New Zealand. With its 20 km long harbour, Otago Peninsula is the home of an abundance of magnificent world-famous wildlife. There are over 20 species that breed, live or visit Taiaora Head.
https://albatross.org.nz/
The settlement of Harington Point is the closest residential area to the albatross colony, as well as several other regionally important wildlife colonies. Between Harington Point and Taiaroa Head is Pilot's Beach, where little blue penguins are seen returning to nest at dusk. Over the hills southwest of Harington Point is the "Penguin Place Conservation Reserve", a nesting colony of yellow-eyed penguins.
All three offer public tours of the respective wildlife colonies. Wellers Rock wharf, just south of Harington Point, is the base for boat cruises and tours exploring the sea and bird life in the area.
Harington Point
The settlement of Harington Point is the closest residential area to the albatross colony, as well as several other regionally important wildlife colonies. Between Harington Point and Taiaroa Head is Pilot's Beach, where little blue penguins are seen returning to nest at dusk. Over the hills southwest of Harington Point is the "Penguin Place Conservation Reserve", a nesting colony of yellow-eyed penguins.
All three offer public tours of the respective wildlife colonies. Wellers Rock wharf, just south of Harington Point, is the base for boat cruises and tours exploring the sea and bird life in the area.
Sandfly Bay is approximately 1.5 kilometres across when measured in a straight line between the headlands.
The bay is accessible from Seal Point Road or a walking track from Sandymount.
Wildlife - Sandfly Bay hosts a significant colony of yellow-eyed penguins, which are frequently seen emerging from the sea in the evenings. Human visitors are asked to duck down out of sight in the presence of these birds so as not to scare them away from their nests. At the eastern end of the beach the Department of Conservation (DOC) has constructed wooden hides for the public and DOC staff to view penguin activity without disturbance.
The beach is a favourite place for New Zealand sea lions to bask on the sand. The public are urged to stay at least 10–15 metres away from these animals and to avoid surrounding them as they can become aggressive; they can move deceptively quickly and have a much more powerful bite than dogs. Please always observe the wildlife from a safe distance. Failure to do so can result in fines enforced by the Marine Mammals Protection Act.
Seabirds such as spotted shags, sooty shearwaters and variable oystercatchers are commonly seen. Sandfly Bay is also an excellent site for washed up Durvillaea antarctica (kelp) to be found.
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Sandfly Bay
Sandfly Bay is approximately 1.5 kilometres across when measured in a straight line between the headlands.
The bay is accessible from Seal Point Road or a walking track from Sandymount.
Wildlife - Sandfly Bay hosts a significant colony of yellow-eyed penguins, which are frequently seen emerging from the sea in the evenings. Human visitors are asked to duck down out of sight in the presence of these birds so as not to scare them away from their nests. At the eastern end of the beach the Department of Conservation (DOC) has constructed wooden hides for the public and DOC staff to view penguin activity without disturbance.
The beach is a favourite place for New Zealand sea lions to bask on the sand. The public are urged to stay at least 10–15 metres away from these animals and to avoid surrounding them as they can become aggressive; they can move deceptively quickly and have a much more powerful bite than dogs. Please always observe the wildlife from a safe distance. Failure to do so can result in fines enforced by the Marine Mammals Protection Act.
Seabirds such as spotted shags, sooty shearwaters and variable oystercatchers are commonly seen. Sandfly Bay is also an excellent site for washed up Durvillaea antarctica (kelp) to be found.
Like its near neighbour, Papanui Inlet, Hoopers Inlet is known for its diverse bird life. The inlet lies 2 km to the south of Portobello and can be reached by road from both there and the city of Dunedin (of which it is administratively a part), the centre of which lies 15 kilometres to the west. Both inlets are shallow, becoming predominantly sand and mud flats at low tide.
The mouth of Hoopers Inlet is narrowed by a large spit, the seaward coast of which forms Allans Beach. Behind this beach is a significant area of wetland and swamp, which is home to many species of flora and birds.
Hoopers Inlet is separated from Papanui Inlet by a strip of land which is the isthmus to a hilly peninsula containing Cape Saunders and the peninsula's highest point, the 408-metre Mount Charles.
Hoopers Inlet
Like its near neighbour, Papanui Inlet, Hoopers Inlet is known for its diverse bird life. The inlet lies 2 km to the south of Portobello and can be reached by road from both there and the city of Dunedin (of which it is administratively a part), the centre of which lies 15 kilometres to the west. Both inlets are shallow, becoming predominantly sand and mud flats at low tide.
The mouth of Hoopers Inlet is narrowed by a large spit, the seaward coast of which forms Allans Beach. Behind this beach is a significant area of wetland and swamp, which is home to many species of flora and birds.
Hoopers Inlet is separated from Papanui Inlet by a strip of land which is the isthmus to a hilly peninsula containing Cape Saunders and the peninsula's highest point, the 408-metre Mount Charles.
Situated on the picturesque Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle is one of New Zealand’s premier visitor attractions. Lovingly restored by the Barker Family, the Castle and surrounding grounds are at the heart of the Dunedin visitor experience. A diverse business; Larnach Castle Limited offers the castle experience, award winning gardens, luxury accommodation, event management and unique dining experiences. Larnach Castle has received numerous national and international accolades.
https://www.larnachcastle.co.nz/
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Larnach Castle
145 Camp RdSituated on the picturesque Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle is one of New Zealand’s premier visitor attractions. Lovingly restored by the Barker Family, the Castle and surrounding grounds are at the heart of the Dunedin visitor experience. A diverse business; Larnach Castle Limited offers the castle experience, award winning gardens, luxury accommodation, event management and unique dining experiences. Larnach Castle has received numerous national and international accolades.
https://www.larnachcastle.co.nz/
Glenfalloch Woodland Garden, Gaelic for ‘hidden valley’ is an historical garden – tranquil, beautiful, much loved and treasured by visitors.
Glenfalloch is a garden of four seasons. Magnificent English Beech, Oak, Ash, Walnut, Elm and Horse Chestnut trees complement the indigenous New Zealand native ferns, Kowhai, Rimu, Pohutakawa and Cordylines planted to advantage by the original owner. The aging dry stone walls accentuate the garden structure in artfully arranged beds, maximizing seasonal colour combinations, form and texture.
Spring at Glenfalloch is spectacularly impressive. Tulips, Daffodils, Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Japanese Flowering Cherries dominate, with drifts of English Bluebells, Snowdrops, Primula Candelabra and wild Primroses around every corner.
Summer presents an enchanting collection of flowers and foliage. Hostas, Penstemons, Hollyhocks, Lavender, Gunnera, and a Heritage Rose Garden accompanied by the constant whisper of the Windflowers welcome busloads to this unique magical wonderland.
Autumn and winter is a leafy tapestry of colour, brilliant reds, orange, yellow and bronze boldly provided by numerous varieties of Maples, Birch, Rowan trees and an extensive collection of Fuchsias thrive in a unique micro-climate.
The original Homestead and fountain stand proud at the top of the sweeping lawn where the driveway swirls up and around the front ‘Alfred Buxton’ style.
Treasures in this garden are aplenty, many with a story to tell. The mighty 1,000 Matai tree standing quietly in the upper gardens mimics the ‘Faraway Tree’ complete with Tui, Bellbird, Fantail and warbler birdsong. Along pathways, ivy and moss are nurtured between bricks and stones, adding further charm to this Woodland Garden.
The premises consist of a stylish restaurant/function venue seating up to 130 people, with room on the huge deck, back courtyard and lawns to expand and host many more guests, on-site parking and access to the Trust’s facilities enhance the operational capabilities. Glenfalloch is a cherished property in the heart of Otago Peninsula.
Otago Peninsula Trust is New Zealand’s first private charitable conservation trust established in 1967, an ecotourism pioneer with a mission ‘To preserve and enhance Otago Peninsula’.
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Glenfalloch Gardens Cafe & Restaurant
430 Portobello RdGlenfalloch Woodland Garden, Gaelic for ‘hidden valley’ is an historical garden – tranquil, beautiful, much loved and treasured by visitors.
Glenfalloch is a garden of four seasons. Magnificent English Beech, Oak, Ash, Walnut, Elm and Horse Chestnut trees complement the indigenous New Zealand native ferns, Kowhai, Rimu, Pohutakawa and Cordylines planted to advantage by the original owner. The aging dry stone walls accentuate the garden structure in artfully arranged beds, maximizing seasonal colour combinations, form and texture.
Spring at Glenfalloch is spectacularly impressive. Tulips, Daffodils, Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Japanese Flowering Cherries dominate, with drifts of English Bluebells, Snowdrops, Primula Candelabra and wild Primroses around every corner.
Summer presents an enchanting collection of flowers and foliage. Hostas, Penstemons, Hollyhocks, Lavender, Gunnera, and a Heritage Rose Garden accompanied by the constant whisper of the Windflowers welcome busloads to this unique magical wonderland.
Autumn and winter is a leafy tapestry of colour, brilliant reds, orange, yellow and bronze boldly provided by numerous varieties of Maples, Birch, Rowan trees and an extensive collection of Fuchsias thrive in a unique micro-climate.
The original Homestead and fountain stand proud at the top of the sweeping lawn where the driveway swirls up and around the front ‘Alfred Buxton’ style.
Treasures in this garden are aplenty, many with a story to tell. The mighty 1,000 Matai tree standing quietly in the upper gardens mimics the ‘Faraway Tree’ complete with Tui, Bellbird, Fantail and warbler birdsong. Along pathways, ivy and moss are nurtured between bricks and stones, adding further charm to this Woodland Garden.
The premises consist of a stylish restaurant/function venue seating up to 130 people, with room on the huge deck, back courtyard and lawns to expand and host many more guests, on-site parking and access to the Trust’s facilities enhance the operational capabilities. Glenfalloch is a cherished property in the heart of Otago Peninsula.
Otago Peninsula Trust is New Zealand’s first private charitable conservation trust established in 1967, an ecotourism pioneer with a mission ‘To preserve and enhance Otago Peninsula’.
Food scene
'The Portobello Hotel was first opened by Nicolas Coneys as “Coneys’s Family Hotel” and gained its licence in 1874. We still consider ourselves a “family hotel”, and love entertaining families, locals and tourists alike. If you love the feeling of being emersed in the local scene, surrounded by “hard case” local characters then we have the place for you'.
2 Harington Point Rd
2 Harington Point Road'The Portobello Hotel was first opened by Nicolas Coneys as “Coneys’s Family Hotel” and gained its licence in 1874. We still consider ourselves a “family hotel”, and love entertaining families, locals and tourists alike. If you love the feeling of being emersed in the local scene, surrounded by “hard case” local characters then we have the place for you'.