Otago Peninsula

Otago Peninsula extends along the Pacific coastline with steep hills, dramatic cliffs, and a series of beaches fringing the edge. The landscape transitions from rolling grassland on the higher ground to rocky outcrops at the water's edge.

Early inhabitants arrived roughly 700 years ago to exploit the region's abundant wildlife. European settlers arrived in the early 1800s and brought permanent change to the land.

The peninsula's name reflects its connection to early inhabitants who lived here through fishing and hunting. Visitors walking along the coast can sense this long human history through the landscape.

Visitors can explore walking trails and viewing platforms spread across the peninsula. The best time to visit is between September and April when wildlife is most active and weather conditions are more favorable.

A rare seabird called the northern royal albatross breeds here at the only known mainland site in the Southern Hemisphere. This makes it one of very few places in the world where you can watch these large birds during their breeding season.