Tunnel Beach

Tunnel Beach is a cove in Dunedin surrounded by golden sandstone cliffs and accessed through a passage carved into the rock. The opening frames natural stone arches and rocky platforms that shape the shoreline.

A landowner had workers hand-carve the tunnel through the cliff in the 1870s to create private beach access for his family. This project reflects early European efforts to develop coastal leisure spaces in New Zealand.

The site shows how European settlers created their own access to isolated coastal areas and turned them into leisure destinations. Such private ventures shaped how people today interact with and enjoy New Zealand's shoreline.

Visit during low tide to see the rock platforms and stone arches fully exposed and accessible. The route is steep with about a 20-minute walk, so wear sturdy shoes and watch your footing on slippery surfaces.

The tunnel was entirely hand-carved through solid rock for 72 meters without power tools or explosives. This 1800s feat shows remarkable patience and craftsmanship from an earlier era.

Location: Dunedin City

GPS coordinates: -45.92120,170.45900

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04