Wild Walks

Whether you're after a gentle city stroll, a scenic coastal walk or a challenging day hike, Dunedin has something for everyone. From windswept clifftops and hidden beaches to native forests, volcanic landscapes and panoramic lookouts, many of the region's best walks are just minutes from the city centre.

Please give wildlife plenty of space

Sandymount Track

One of the Otago Peninsula's most rewarding short walks. Wander through a tunnel of historic macrocarpa trees before crossing open farmland to spectacular views over Allans Beach, Hoopers Inlet, Poatiri/Mount Charles and Wharekākahu/Harbour Cone.

Start: Sandymount Recreation Reserve car park, at the end of Sandymount Road
Google Maps: Sandymount Recreation Reserve car park

1 hour return | 2.5km
Dogs not permitted
Closed annually for lambing (1 September – 23 October)

St Clair Beach to St Kilda Beach

Enjoy a relaxed walk along Dunedin's iconic surf beaches. Continue to Lawyers Head for stunning coastal views, or return via John Wilson Ocean Drive for a different perspective.

Start: St Clair Esplanade
Google Maps: St Clair Esplanade

1 hour | 3.5km one way
Dogs permitted off lead on the beach and on lead along John Wilson Ocean Drive

Pineapple Track

Follow part of Dunedin's famous skyline along the historic Pineapple Track, named after trampers who once stopped here to enjoy tins of pineapple while taking in the views.

Start: Bull Ring car park, Flagstaff-Whare Flat Road
Google Maps: Bull Ring car park

1 hour return | 2.5km
Dogs permitted off lead

Mount Cargill

One of Dunedin's highest peaks, Mount Cargill rewards walkers with breathtaking 360-degree views across the city, harbour and Taieri Plains. There are two routes to the summit, starting from either Bethunes Gully or Mount Cargill Road.

Start: Bethunes Gully car park or Mount Cargill Road car park
Google Maps: Bethunes Gully car park · Mount Cargill Road car park

4 hours return | 8.5km
Dogs permitted off lead

Tunnel Beach Track

A Dunedin classic. Walk through rolling farmland to dramatic sandstone cliffs before descending a hand-carved tunnel built in the 1870s for the Cargill family. At low tide, explore the secluded beach surrounded by towering cliffs and fascinating rock formations.

Start: Tunnel Beach Car Park, 26 Tunnel Beach Road
Google Maps: Tunnel Beach Car Park

1 hour return | 2km
Best visited within two hours either side of low tide
Dogs not permitted

Ross Creek

One of Dunedin's favourite native bush walks, Ross Creek follows the city's oldest water reservoir through peaceful forest. It's a great option on cooler or wetter days thanks to its sheltered location.

Start: Woodhaugh Gardens, with multiple access points around the Ross Creek network
Google Maps: Woodhaugh Gardens

45–60 minutes return | Around 3km
Multiple access points around the city

Orokonui Lagoon

This easy, sheltered walk circles the tranquil Orokonui Lagoon through native bush and wetlands. A great option for families and birdwatchers.

Start: Orokonui Lagoon access, Doctors Point Road
Google Maps: Orokonui Lagoon starting point

1 hour return | 3km
Dogs permitted on lead

Huriawa Pā, Karitāne

Discover one of Otago's most significant historic sites while enjoying coastal views around the Huriawa Peninsula. Extend your walk with a stroll along beautiful Karitāne Beach.

Start: Huriawa Pā Walk, Barvas Street, Karitāne
Google Maps: Huriawa Pā Walk starting point

45 minutes return | 2.4km
Dogs permitted on lead

Long Beach

A favourite for families, photographers and wildlife lovers. Explore impressive sea caves formed by ancient volcanic activity, watch rock climbers on the cliffs, and keep an eye out for kororā (little blue penguins), fur seals, sea lions and other marine visitors.

Start: Car park on Beach Road, Long Beach
Google Maps: Long Beach car park

1 hour 30 minutes return | 7km
Dogs permitted off lead

Town Belt Traverse

Discover one of Dunedin's hidden gems on this walk through the city's historic Town Belt. Connecting parks, native bush and viewpoints, it's a wonderful way to experience nature right in the heart of the city.

Start: Unity Park, Eglinton Road
Google Maps: Unity Park

Around 2–3 hours | 8.2km
Dogs permitted on lead

Silver Peaks

For those looking for a bigger adventure, Silver Peaks Scenic Reserve offers rugged backcountry tramping just 30 minutes from Dunedin. Explore rolling tussock tops, native bush, historic gold mining routes and spectacular panoramic views. There are a range of day walks, while experienced trampers can tackle the full circuit.

Start: Mountain Road DOC Car Park
Google Maps: Mountain Road DOC Car Park

Full circuit: 24km
Around 12 hours, or 2–3 days with overnight hut stays
Advanced tramping

Rock and Pillar Range

One of Otago's most iconic alpine landscapes, the Rock and Pillar Range is famous for its dramatic schist tors, sweeping tussock country and incredible views. Fans of The Hobbit may also recognise parts of the range as a filming location.

Track information and access: DOC guide to tracks in the Rock and Pillar Conservation Area

Around 5–6 hours return | 10–12km
Moderate to challenging

Whether you're chasing waterfalls, coastal scenery, native wildlife or panoramic viewpoints, Dunedin's diverse network of walking tracks makes it one of New Zealand's best destinations for exploring on foot.