On the southern half of New Zealand's South Island is the region of Otago, an area known for incredible scenery, a landscape made up of hills and valleys, beautiful lakes, and charming villages boasting traditional stone architecture. Dunedin is the largest of the cities in Otago, and it makes for a great base to enjoy attractions like the octagonal city centre, the famed Robert Burns Statue, Larnach Castle, and Dunedin Botanical Gardens. Dunedin is known as the Edinburgh of New Zealand, and boasts serious Scottish pride, but it is also home to miles of tramping routes, scenic beaches, and the Peninsula, an amazing coastal spot where you can spot sea lions, admire seals, and even go fishing right from the shore. In Otago's Queenstown, located at the base of the Southern Alps, you can do everything from skiing in the winter to horseback riding along the perimeter of the stunning Lake Wakatipu. Head to Koekohe Beach to see the world-famous Moeraki Boulders, almost perfectly spherical boulders strewn along the sandy coastline. You could sample locally-made cheese, sip wines produced in the Central Otago Wine Region, or even try panning for gold in Alexandra. Truly, Otago offers something for everyone, making it an unbeatable holiday destination on the South Island.
Hotels and Accommodation
As you begin your search for Otago accommodation, be sure to make the most of Expedia.co.nz has to offer. Browse an incredible range of Otago hotels in a multitude of locations, ensuring that you can book the lodging that works best for you and your travel companions. If you're on a budget, motels a few minutes from major destinations can keep costs low. If your trip is all about indulgence, the luxury hotels in Dunedin put you in the heart of the city and even offer sea views. Whatever your budget and your vacation style, we've got the perfect accommodation to meet your needs.
Best time to Travel and Getting There
If you're flying into Otago, the best choice is often to travel through the Dunedin International Airport (DUD), located just 20 minutes from the centre of Dunedin. Taxis and shared shuttles are readily available at the airport, although Otago car hire is a great option for those who plan to travel throughout the region on their holiday. Otago boasts a cool and comfortable climate for much of the year, with only minor temperature fluctuations between the seasons. The busiest times for Otago travel are the New Zealand school holidays, with summer in particular being popular thanks to average temperatures of 19 degrees.
Book Through Expedia to Save Big
To find the best accommodation in Otago, you've come to the right place. Here at Expedia.co.nz, our goal is to match up your holiday itinerary with the perfect lodging for your budget. Whether that's a boutique hotel in Dunedin, a luxury resort on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, a beachfront hotel on the Otago Peninsula, or a lodge just minutes from the slopes of the Southern Alps, we have got you covered. From our easy-to-navigate website, we also offer affordable car hire and flights that can be conveniently bundled with your choice of accommodation. For nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore some of the most amazing scenery in New Zealand, Otago is the perfect place for your next holiday.