New Zealand is an Antipodean land which attracts lovers of vast spaces and wild nature. Though it is mostly mountainous, the country has a diverse range of landscapes and environments: icy summits, plains with mirror-like lakes, wild coastline licked by the Pacific waters... The nature here is absolutely majestic. And fortunately ecology takes pride of place here.

New Zealand, an intense natural paradise

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A sophisticated town and ideal departure point, if you're planning to tour the stunning Otago region.

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Dunedin is charming, with its Victorian architecture, but it's the town's surroundings that I suggest you take the time to see. I fell in love with the Otago Peninsula, a savage paradise close to Dunedin. The peninsula road is narrow and winding, running across green hills and giving panoramic views across the ocean; it's worth making a detour for. I was fascinated by the wildlife I saw in the area - penguins, sea lions and albatross...I was also surprised at how easy they were to spot. To watch sea lions lolling about, you should head down to the beach at Sandfly Bay. What's more it's an enjoyable walk. Even if they look like big slugs lazing in the sun, don't get too close, as they can move very quickly when they want to! And being crushed by 500kg is not what you need! Another beautiful walk that I can recommend is the one to The Chasm. If you're there at the end of the day, take the time to watch the sun go down over the peninsula. The best spot for this is by the parking lot. One of the most amazing sunsets that I saw during my time in New Zealand.  If you've come as far as Dunedin, it would be a shame if you missed visiting The Catlins. It's off the beaten track, and breathtaking. You can swim with hector dolphins, watch yellow-eyed penguins or cool off beside impressive waterfalls. In short, this is one of my favorite regions in New Zealand and I can't recommend it highly enough!

In my opinion, Dunedin is the most charming city on the South Island of New Zealand, where life is good and where <a href="/new-zealand/">to stay during your trip</a>. Many old buildings, especially its train station and old penitentiary, give it a European elegance strongly steeped with Scottish culture. Accordingly, if you're interested in the history of Otago, I suggest a visit to the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, depicting the arrival of the first settlers and the development of ways of life. Dunedin also offers a wide selection of original boutiques, from vintage thrift shops to high end stores. After strolling through the streets of the city center, a drink on an outdoor patio gave me the opportunity to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city full of commotion. Finally, a day trip led me to the Otago peninsula, the quintessential ecotourism destination. You'll have the opportunity to discover the diverse local wildlife (seals, sea lions, blue penguins and yellow-eyed penguins, albatross, etc.), in a heavenly environment with views that will take your breath away. Don't forget your cameras!

A principal city in the Otago region, Dunedin is a very beautiful colonial city that has kept its historic heritage.

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