Port Chalmers: A Self-Guided Tour around Otago’s Historic Seaport

Earn OneKeyCash when you sign in and book an activity

Port Chalmers: A Self-Guided Tour around Otago’s Historic Seaport

By VoiceMap Audio Tours

Free cancellation available

See tickets

Features

Free cancellation available
1h 30m
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation

Overview

Otago’s deep-water port has shaped New Zealand’s history since the 1840s. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore Port Chalmers’ rich maritime heritage, from its origins as the Māori settlement of Kōpūtai to its role in the gold rush era, and its continued importance today. You’ll also discover how its historic architecture, artistic community, and working port atmosphere give this harbourside town its distinctive character.

The tour starts at Port Chalmers Maritime Museum, built in 1877 on reclaimed land. You’ll weave through the historic town centre, passing the grand Municipal Town Hall, before climbing to a spectacular lookout with panoramic views of Otago Harbour, Quarantine Island, and the Otago Peninsula. The tour ends near the commemorative garden marking the 150th anniversary of the Port Chalmers land purchase.

Activity location

1E Beach Street
- 1E Beach Street
- 9023, Dunedin, Otago Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

1E Beach Street
- 1E Beach Street
- 9023, Dunedin, Otago Region, New Zealand

Check availability

Port Chalmers: A Self-Guided Tour around Otago’s Historic Seaport in English

1h 30m
Opening hours: Fri 12:00 am-11:59 pm
English

Travellers

Language options: English

Price details

NZ$14.99 x 1 AdultNZ$14.99

Total

What's included, what's not

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
App for Android and iOS
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Smartphone and headphones
Transport
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink

Know before you book

Public transport options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Port Chalmers Maritime Museum (Pass by)

You'll begin at this 1877 building constructed on reclaimed land, housing detailed ship models and maritime artefacts. Explore the collection and visit the new viewing gallery that overlooks the working port's daily operations.

Port Chalmers Town Hall (Pass by)

Pass this grand Municipal Town Hall that stands as a testament to the town's prosperous gold rush era. Marvel at the impressive architecture that reflects Port Chalmers' importance as one of Australasia's busiest ports during the 1860s.

Holy Trinity Anglican Church (Pass by)

You'll discover this beautiful 1874 church built from local breccia stone with decorative Oamaru stone accents. Step inside to experience one of Port Chalmers' finest examples of Victorian-era religious architecture.

Iona Church (Pass by)

Admire this striking church with its commanding spire and town clock visible from the harbour below. Walk past this landmark that has served as a navigational reference point for sailors entering Otago Harbour for generations.

Hotere Garden Oputae (Pass by)

Explore this unique garden featuring sculptures by Ralph Hotere, one of New Zealand's most significant artists. Enjoy the blend of art and nature in this creative space that honours the artist who lived and worked in Port Chalmers for over 40 years.

Studio of Ralph Hotere (Former) (Pass by)

You'll pass the former studio where renowned artist Ralph Hotere created many of his celebrated works. Discover how this location became central to New Zealand's contemporary art scene and helped establish Port Chalmers as a creative hub.

Flagstaff Lookout (Pass by)

Climb to this spectacular viewpoint offering panoramic views of Otago Harbour, Quarantine Island, and the Otago Peninsula. Marvel at the sweeping harbour vistas that reveal why this deep-water port became so strategically important to New Zealand's development.

Port Chalmers Pioneer Hall (Pass by)

You'll see this historic building that commemorates the early European settlers who arrived at Kōpūtai. Walk past this memorial to the pioneers who transformed the Māori settlement into a thriving port town during the 1840s.

Port Chalmers Place (Pass by)

Stroll through this central area marking the 150th anniversary of the Port Chalmers land purchase. Explore the commemorative garden where the town's European and Māori histories converge.

Union Co Cafe (Pass by)

You'll learn about the former headquarters of the Union Steam Ship Company, once the Southern Hemisphere's largest shipping line. Explore the area where this maritime giant operated, connecting Port Chalmers to ports across the Pacific and beyond.

Location

Activity location

1E Beach Street
- 1E Beach Street
- 9023, Dunedin, Otago Region, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

1E Beach Street
- 1E Beach Street
- 9023, Dunedin, Otago Region, New Zealand

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. Expedia offers one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Dunedin your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.

Top experiences in Dunedin

With so many activities in Dunedin, planning the perfect day out may seem like a daunting task. Expedia is here to take the hassle out of finding the best attractions, tours and activities in Dunedin. Families, couples and business travellers can all find the perfect activity in Dunedin to create life-long memories with the help of Expedia.