Does the Bull Ring car park fill up on sunny weekends?
Dunedin Questions
Dunedin people helping Dunedin people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
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Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Where does the Leith Saddle Track start from?
DunnersCity guide
The Leith Saddle Track is accessed from Waitati Valley Road, near the SH1 intersection at Leith Saddle. The track start is 50 m along Waitati Valley Road.
Has anyone taken an e-bike up Swampy Summit? How did the climb go?
How long is The Big Easy track up to the Signal Hill lookout?
DunnersCity guide
The Big Easy is 6.1 km and is built so well that almost any rider can reach the Signal Hill lookout without noticing the climb.
Is the walk from the summit car park to the memorial okay with a pram?
Is there a play area for kids at Glenfalloch?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there's a children's play area on site, alongside the café and restaurant. It's an easy stop for families after a walk around the gardens.
Is there much shade on the paths on a hot afternoon?
Is there a carpark at Woodside Glen for the walk?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the Woodside Glen Walk starts from a carpark at the reserve. It's a short drive from Outram, and there's no public transport option, so you'll need your own vehicle.
Has anyone taken a pram up the track to Lee Creek? Wondering how the surface is.
What's the phone number for the Waikouaiti library?
DunnersCity guide
The number is 03 474 3690. The library is at 192 Main Road, Waikouaiti.
Is it usually quiet in there, or do school kids and story time make it noisy?
How far is Orokonui Ecosanctuary from Dunedin?
DunnersCity guide
Orokonui is about 20 km north of Dunedin. It sits in the Orokonui Valley, near Waitati.
When is the best time of day to see kākā at the feeding station?
Is there parking at Lan Yuan, or do I need to park on the street?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the garden has its own free car park, so you don't have to rely on the street.
Is it worth going on a wet day, or is there not much shelter in the garden?
Who paid for the Dunedin City Library to be built originally?
DunnersCity guide
Andrew Carnegie. The philanthropist gave a £10,000 grant, and the library opened on 2 December 1908 as the city's first free public library.
Is the kids' area any good for toddlers, or is it more for older children?
How far is Maori Head from Lawyers Head?
DunnersCity guide
Maori Head is about one kilometre east of Lawyers Head. It is the higher of the two headlands, at 75 metres compared with Lawyers Head's 34.
Is St Kilda Beach sandy right up to Lawyers Head, or does it get rocky at the end?
Are the barbecues at Bethunes Gully open in winter?
DunnersCity guide
No, the barbecues only run from October to April and are closed in winter. They are first come, first served, with a 90 minute limit per group.
Is there a tap or drinking water near the car park, or should I bring my own?
What equipment is in the playground at Te Rauone?
DunnersCity guide
The playground has a basket swing, log scramble, fort and slide, plus other equipment. It is part of the reserve upgrades completed around 2023 to 2024.
Are there lifeguards on the beach at Te Rauone over summer?
When are the lifeguards on duty at Warrington Beach?
DunnersCity guide
Volunteer lifeguards patrol at weekends from November through to March each year. Outside those times the beach is unpatrolled, so take extra care if you swim.
How busy does the Warrington Domain camping area get on summer weekends, and when should you arrive?
Is there a playground at Ocean Grove Recreation Reserve?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the reserve has playgrounds, along with community halls that support local activities.
Is there any shade near the fields for watching a game on a sunny afternoon?
Do I need a wetsuit for a surf at St Clair?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, wear a wetsuit. The water at St Clair is cold all year round, so a wetsuit is recommended whatever the season.
Are there showers near the beach to rinse off after a surf?
When did Mosgiel Library move to its Hartstonge Avenue site?
DunnersCity guide
The library moved to its present site on Hartstonge Avenue in 1979.
Is there a kids' area at Mosgiel Library where little ones can play while I browse?
How far is Hoopers Inlet and Allans Beach from central Dunedin?
DunnersCity guide
It's about 25 km from the city, and the distance is the same whether you go via Portobello Road or Highcliff Road.
Can you get a pram along Allans Beach or the Sandymount Track, or is it too rough?
When did the Port Chalmers library building open?
DunnersCity guide
The building opened on 25 September 1889, with the foundation stone laid on 3 November 1888. It first housed the Port Chalmers Town Hall and other government offices.
Can you print or photocopy at Port Chalmers library, and is it easy to get a job done?
Roughly how many places does the Bookbus visit each week around Dunedin?
DunnersCity guide
The buses serve around 50 locations each week, reaching suburbs from Brighton to Portobello and many areas in between.
Is it easy to get a wheelchair onto the Bookbus, and is there room to move around inside?
Where do you park for Nicols Creek Track?
DunnersCity guide
Park roadside on Leith Valley Road, near the bridge. There are no facilities on site, so plan ahead before you arrive.
Is the waterfall worth the walk when it hasn't rained for a while?
Is there open grass at Bayfield Park for a picnic or letting kids run around?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the park has open grassy areas that suit running around or a picnic, alongside the playground and sports fields.
Is the playground fenced, or can little ones wander towards the inlet and carpark?
Can I have a picnic or kick a ball around at Brighton Domain?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the open grass is used for picnics, informal games and relaxing.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the fields and road?
How long does the Highcliff Track loop take to walk?
DunnersCity guide
The Highcliff Track is a 4 km loop and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes return. It's graded as an advanced tramping track, so wear sturdy footwear.
How steep is the Highcliff Track, and are there sections that get tricky?
Are there picnic tables at the Sandymount Track car park?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there are picnic tables at the car park at the end of Sandymount Road. There are no toilets there, though. The nearest ones are in Macandrew Bay.
Has anyone taken a pram up to the viewpoint, or is the track too rough?
Is there a council service centre in the same building as Blueskin Bay Library?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, a DCC Service Centre operates from the same building as the library on weekdays.
Is it easy to get a park close to the library on Harvey Street, even when things are on?
What is there to see at the Dunedin Gasworks Museum?
DunnersCity guide
The main structures are the Engine House with its landmark chimney, the gasholder frame and the Brick Fitting Shop, which dates from around 1900.
Is it easy to find a park near the museum on a Sunday?
How did Speight's Gold Medal Ale get its name?
DunnersCity guide
It won two gold medals at the Melbourne Exhibition in 1880, and the beer was renamed Speight's Gold Medal Ale after that.
Can you pop into the shop without a tour booking, or is there a charge to get in?
Does it cost anything to use Market Reserve Playground?
DunnersCity guide
No, it's free for the public to use, and community activities are free too. Only commercial events or activities are charged, at $596.50 per day.
Does the playground have any water play, or is it just the equipment and grass?
What does the Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust do for hoiho on the coast?
DunnersCity guide
It's a not-for-profit conservation group working to see hoiho thrive. It reforests coastlines and protects the reserves where hoiho nest.
Is there much shade on the loop, or is it pretty exposed in the afternoon?
Where can I see the whale skeleton at Tūhura Otago Museum?
DunnersCity guide
The 18-metre fin whale skeleton is in the Maritime Gallery. That gallery also covers Dunedin's seafaring and shipping history.
Is it crowded on a wet weekend, or can you still get a good look at the moa?
Are the parking spaces level enough for a good sleep in a campervan?
Is there free Wi-Fi at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there's free Wi-Fi in the gallery foyer.
Is it easy to find a car park near the gallery on a weekday, or is it a squeeze?
How long is the drive from Dunedin city to Larnach Castle?
DunnersCity guide
It's about a 20 minute drive from Dunedin city, out on the Otago Peninsula.
Is it worth going on a rainy day, or is most of it outside in the gardens?
What's the address for Ocean View Recreation Reserve?
DunnersCity guide
It's at 715 Brighton Road, Ocean View, just south of Dunedin near Brighton.
How exposed is the site when a southerly comes through? Does it rock the van much?
Is there a tsunami risk on the walk to Mapoutahi Pā, and what should I do?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the Mapoutahi track is susceptible to tsunami. If a siren sounds or you get an alert, move to higher ground and stay away from the coast until the risk or alert period is over.
How much time do you need before and after low tide to do the caves and the pā?
How much does it cost to visit Olveston?
DunnersCity guide
Tickets are about $24 to $26 for adults and $15 for children aged 16 and under.
Do primary school age kids cope with the hour long tour at Olveston?
Is there a real steam locomotive on display at the museum?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, Josephine, an E class Fairlie steam locomotive from 1872, is on display. She is the oldest preserved steam locomotive in New Zealand and a popular drawcard.
Are the information panels easy to read, or is it a lot of small print?
Is there a pool or library close to the Mosgiel Memorial Gardens playground?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, Mosgiel Library and the Te Puna o Whakaehu aquatic centre are both nearby, and pedestrian paths link the gardens to them.
How much shade is there around the playground in the afternoon?
Is Marlow Park being redeveloped, and will the dinosaur slide stay?
DunnersCity guide
Concept plans for an upgrade include in-ground trampolines, a parkour course and a fossil-themed sand play area. The dinosaur slide and concrete whale are meant to be kept and refurbished.
Do kids ride scooters around Marlow Park, and are the paths okay for that?
Is there an orienteering course at Chingford Park?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there is a permanent orienteering course in the park. The Leith Valley Harrier Club and the Dunedin Archery Club are also based there.
Are the paths smooth enough for a pram or is it rough in places?
Are there public toilets at Woodhaugh Gardens?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at Woodhaugh Gardens, in the garden area with the BBQ and picnic spots.
Can a kid in a wheelchair or walker get onto any of the play equipment?
Is there parking at Rotary Park?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there is car parking at the park, which is at 293 Highcliff Road in Waverley.
Are any parts of the tracks steep, or is it easy going for most people?
What kind of BMX track is at Forrester Park?
DunnersCity guide
It's a pump-style circuit, good for building skills and casual rides.
Are the paths around the fields sealed, or is it gravel and grass?
Is the Harbour Cone track well marked, or will I need a map?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, it's well marked. Yellow markers lead you across the paddocks and through the patches of native bush.
Is there much shade on the way up, or is it mostly open paddock?
How long is the John Wilson Ocean Drive walk?
DunnersCity guide
It's about 2 km long, running from St Kilda toward Lawyers Head. Walkers and cyclists can use it at any time.
Is there any shade along the drive or is it all exposed in the afternoon?
Where exactly is Logan Park in Dunedin?
DunnersCity guide
Otago Polytechnic runs along the western boundary of Logan Park. The University of Otago College of Education and Forsyth Barr Stadium border its southern edge.
Are there any picnic tables at Logan Park, or do people just sit on the grass?
Are there toilets at Tunnel Beach?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there are toilets, including accessible toilets, at the Tunnel Beach car park.
Is there any shade on the track or down at the beach on a hot afternoon?
Is it safe to leave valuables in the car at Sandfly Bay?
DunnersCity guide
No, don't leave valuables in your car at the Sandfly Bay carpark at the end of Seal Point Road. There have been break-ins there.
Is there anywhere on the beach to get out of the sun or wind for a bit?
How long can I use the barbecue at Caversham Reserve?
DunnersCity guide
The barbecue is limited to 90 minutes per group and is only available in summer. It's push-button operated, so you need to reset it every 8 minutes.
Is the playground okay for toddlers, or is it mostly gear for bigger kids?
Is Brighton Beach any good for fishing?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, fishing at Brighton is popular, and surf casting from the beach and rocks is good.
Is there any natural shade at Brighton Beach, or do you need to bring your own?
How long is the walk up to the Soldiers Memorial from Highcliff Road?
DunnersCity guide
Allow about 10 minutes. It is short but steep, climbing to about 280 metres. There are a few roadside car parks on Highcliff Road to leave your car.
How windy does it get up at the memorial, is it worth taking a jacket?
What's the road down to Whareakeake Beach like?
DunnersCity guide
Whareakeake Road is a steep one-lane gravel drive. It runs down the side of the Purehurehu Point ridge and ends at the eastern end of the beach.
Is there much room to park near the beach, and is it easy to turn around down there?
Would a six year old manage Raceman's Track, or is it too long with the river crossings?
Is there parking near the entry points for the Mosgiel floodbank walk?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there is street parking near most of the entry points. Those are Reid Avenue, Carlyle Road, Riverside Road and Wingatui Road.
Is there much shade on the floodbank, or is it fully exposed on a sunny afternoon?
Is there anywhere to camp near St Kilda Beach?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, Dunedin Holiday Park is a five minute walk across the rugby fields to the beach, so you can stay close and walk over for a swim or surf.
Is St Kilda okay for a beginner learning to surf, or do the rips get tricky?
Am I allowed to fly a drone around Purakaunui and Mapoutahi?
DunnersCity guide
Not without a permit. Flying a drone without one is strictly prohibited in the Purakaunui and Waitati area.
Is there anywhere to get changed after a swim at Purakaunui, or is it a towel job?
What gearing do I need to cycle up Baldwin Street?
DunnersCity guide
Very low gearing. One rider who made it up ran a 36 tooth chainring with an 11-34 cassette, giving a lowest ratio of about 1.06, and he chose light tyres.
Is there anywhere close by to fill a water bottle before heading up?
How long should I allow for the Dunedin street art trail?
DunnersCity guide
Allow a relaxed half day or a full day. That gives you time to stop for coffee or visit a brewery along the way.
Is the trail manageable in a wheelchair, or are the laneways too cobbled and bumpy?
Is Broad Bay a sandy beach or more rocky?
DunnersCity guide
It's a small sandy beach with grassy reserves right beside it, a relaxed spot popular with families.
How far does the tide go out at Broad Bay, and is it still okay for a paddle at low tide?
What's the street address for Southern Cemetery in Dunedin?
DunnersCity guide
Southern Cemetery is at 18 South Road, Dunedin.
Can you take a bike in, or is it walking only once you're inside?
Is there parking at the start of the Taieri River Track?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there's ample parking at the start of the track, at the end of Riverside Road in Taieri Mouth.
Is there much shade on the way to John Bull Gully on a hot sunny day?
What is the Māori name for Mount Cargill?
DunnersCity guide
Mount Cargill's Māori name is Kapukataumahaka.
Is it easy to get a park at the small Mt Cargill Road car park on weekends?
Why is it called Jubilee Park, and what was it before?
DunnersCity guide
It was renamed in 1887 to mark Queen Victoria's Jubilee. Before that it was private land known as Tomlinson's Paddock, and it now forms part of Dunedin's Town Belt reserves.
Is there a tap anywhere at Jubilee Park to refill a water bottle?
Are there public toilets at Macandrew Bay Beach?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, toilets are listed among the facilities at Macandrew Bay, along with car parking, a picnic area and a BBQ area.
Is there much shade on the beach or in the park in the afternoon?
Is the Redwood Loop a good option for riding with kids?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, Redwood Loop is a Grade 2 track with gentle slopes and smooth surfaces, so it suits families, new riders and people returning to riding.
Does the Wakari Road car park fill up on weekends?
Is there bike hire at Whare Flat or do I need to bring my own?
DunnersCity guide
No, there's no bike hire on site, so bring your own bike. Personal bikes are welcome on the trails.
How steep are the climbs at Whare Flat? Are they manageable for someone of average fitness?
How long does the Chalkies Track loop take?
DunnersCity guide
About 3.5 hours for the 6 km loop. It's an advanced tramping track with a steep 400 m climb up Powder Hill and crossings of Silver Stream and Leishmans Creek.
Are there any toilets at the car park at the end of Silverstream Valley Road?
How far is Ross Creek Reservoir from central Dunedin?
DunnersCity guide
It's about 4 km north of the city centre, in the suburb of Glenleith. You can get in from Burma, Rockside and Tanner Roads and Woodhaugh Street, and a bus route is available.
Where do you park for the Ross Creek loop, and is it hard to find a spot at weekends?
When was Sullivan's Dam built and who is it named after?
DunnersCity guide
Work began in May 1913 and it officially opened on 15 July 1916. It is named after City Councillor Archibald J. Sullivan, who proposed it in 1909 to expand Dunedin's water supply.
Is the dam loop shady in the afternoon or pretty open to the sun?
Can I get to Frasers Gully by bus instead of driving?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, you can get off at the Brockville Road bus stops and walk a short distance to the trailhead.
Is the track mostly shaded, or does it get a lot of afternoon sun?
Is the West Harbour Cycleway sealed all the way?
DunnersCity guide
Mostly, yes. It's paved and off-road, with only a small on-road section in Port Chalmers and a few bits in Dunedin when you join from bike hire spots.
Is parking easy to find at the Port Chalmers end, especially on weekends?
Where can I park to start the ride on the Otago Harbour Cycleway?
DunnersCity guide
There are car parks at Otago Boat Harbour Reserve and at Back Beach, and both work well as starting points for the ride.
How crowded does the path get with walkers on weekends, and is passing on a bike easy enough?
How long is The Big Easy trail up to the Signal Hill lookout?
DunnersCity guide
The Big Easy is 6.1 km to the Signal Hill Lookout. It's built so gently that almost any rider can reach the top without really noticing the climb.
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle at the car park or up top, or should I bring it all?
How long should I allow for the Portobello to Port Chalmers harbour loop with the ferry?
DunnersCity guide
Allow at least 2 hours for the Portobello to Port Chalmers loop, including the 10 minute ferry crossing. Leave more time if you want to stop for photos or food along the way.
Has anyone ridden the loop on an e-bike, and did the battery last the Highcliff climb?
Can I get a bus to the start of the Pineapple Track?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the Glenleith Extension bus from Dunedin City Transport goes to Booth Road, which is the Booth Road end of the track.
Has anyone done a loop from the Pineapple Track back to the start? Which way did you go?
Does it cost anything to ride or walk at Nicols Creek?
DunnersCity guide
No, it's free for the public to use. Only commercial activities or events are charged, at $596.50 per day.
Is there anywhere to fill up with drinking water along the track, or should I bring it all?
Where can we get duck food for the duck pond at Dunedin Botanic Garden?
DunnersCity guide
The information centre supplies duck food, so pick some up there before you head to the pond.
How easy is it to find a park near the entrance on a weekend?
Is Allans Beach a good spot for beginner surfers?
DunnersCity guide
Not really. The swells are often big and challenging, so at least intermediate surfing skill is recommended, except on particularly calm days.
How full does the carpark get on a sunny weekend?
How close can I get to the seals and sea lions at Pilots Beach?
DunnersCity guide
Stay at least 10 m away from fur seals and sea lions. If you're in a group, don't surround them, because they can run fast. Pilots Beach is often the best place to see them.
Is the waterfront path busy with walkers, or do you mostly have it to yourself?
Can I take my dog to Outram Glen while I fish?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash on the Outram Glen to Lee Stream track, which starts from the Outram Glen picnic area.
Is the track in from the bridge an easy walk in waders?
Are there toilets at Aramoana, and any near the mole?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the Aramoana Domain. Over summer there are also portaloos at the Pari Street and Mole Road car parks, the latter being the one by the mole.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a surf, like an outdoor shower at the Domain or mole?
How far is it from the car park to Jubilee Hut and how long does it take?
DunnersCity guide
It is 9 km from the car park to Jubilee Hut, and the walk takes about 4.5 hours.
Has anyone taken kids on the lower tracks, and how did they cope?
Is there car parking at St Clair Beach near the hot pool?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, St Clair Beach has car parking, and the heated salt water pool is part of the same site. Parking fees aren't confirmed, so check the signs when you arrive.
Is St Clair a good spot to watch the sunrise, and where do you stand for the best view?
Can I buy bait or tackle at Hoopers Inlet?
DunnersCity guide
No, so buy what you need before you head out the peninsula. Hunting & Fishing Dunedin at 141 Crawford Street in central Dunedin sells tackle and gives local advice.
Is there anywhere to launch a small boat or kayak at Hoopers Inlet, or is it all shore fishing?
Is there anywhere to sit while the kids ride at Seddon Park?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, seating and fencing were added or improved in the 2024 upgrade. The tracks sit in open green space with a playground and walking paths nearby.
How is the pump track for a beginner on a scooter? Are the rollers easy to get over?
Can I buy bait at Aramoana?
DunnersCity guide
No, there is nothing at Aramoana, so buy bait in Dunedin before you drive out. Hunting & Fishing Dunedin on Crawford Street has fishing tackle and advice.
Does anyone fly fish off The Spit, or is it mostly surfcasting and bait?
How deep is Lake Waihola, and is the bottom muddy if you wade?
DunnersCity guide
It's very shallow, with a mean depth of only 0.75 m, and many areas have soft mud on the bottom. Wading out far isn't a good idea, especially with kids.
Is it easy to find parking near the jetty at Waihola, even on a busy summer weekend?
What's the daily bag limit at Southern Reservoir?
DunnersCity guide
The limit is one fish per day. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, and some brown trout also find their way in through a pipe from Silverstream.
Is it easy going from the gate to the water with a pram or wheelchair?
What's the street address for the Forrester Park BMX track?
DunnersCity guide
The BMX track is at Forrester Park, 194 Norwood Street in Dunedin. The park's entrance and car park are down on Norwood Street.
Is there a drinking tap anywhere near the track, or should I bring my own water?
Can I walk to the Thomas Burns skatepark from Dunedin Railway Station?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, you can walk there from the station. A steel overbridge crosses the railway tracks, and the skatepark is on Thomas Burns Road just behind the station.
Is there any shade at the skatepark on a sunny afternoon?
What is the Taieri Pet cloud you see over the Rock and Pillar Range?
DunnersCity guide
The Taieri Pet is a lens-shaped cloud that often sits over the range. It usually appears when a nor-west wind is blowing.
Where do you park for the Glencreag Track, and is there room for a few cars?
Is there an entry fee for Lady Thorn Dell Garden?
DunnersCity guide
No, it's free for the public to visit and open all year. The entrance and car park are down Church Street.
Do young kids cope with the steps and the rock outcrop section on the loop?
Is there a shop or takeaway in Brockville for after a skate?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, Brockville has a corner shop and a takeaway shop, so you can grab something to eat or drink in the suburb after a session.
Are there toilets close to the ramp, or is it a walk across the park?
Where do I park for Sullivans Dam on Leith Valley Road?
DunnersCity guide
There are two access gates on Leith Valley Road, and each has a small car park. Keep the gateways clear when you park.
Are there any toilets at the dam, or should I go before driving up?
How close can I get to the seals and sea lions at Pilots Beach?
DunnersCity guide
Stay at least 10 m away from them. If you're in a group, don't surround them, because they can run fast. Pilots Beach is often the best place to see fur seals and sea lions.
How busy does the Careys Bay ramp get on a weekend morning in salmon season?
How long should I wait after rain before the kids paddle at Tomahawk Lagoon?
DunnersCity guide
Wait 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain before swimming. Water quality can change quickly, especially after rain.
Do many people bring dogs here, and are they usually on a lead near the water?
Are dogs allowed on the Outram Glen to Lee Stream walk?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed on the track but they must be kept on a leash.
Is the track to the river beach okay for a pram, or too rough?
Can I take my dog out on the track and jetty at Boiler Point?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed on the track and the jetty. Keep them under control and pick up after them.
How far is the walk from the car park to the jetty, and is it flat?
Is the Grahams Bush Walkway a loop track?
DunnersCity guide
No, it's 6.8 km return via the same track. It runs between Sawyers Bay and Mount Cargill Road, so you can start at either end and walk uphill or downhill first.
How shady is it on a hot day, or is a lot of it open farmland?
Can I light a campfire in Te Papanui Conservation Park?
DunnersCity guide
No. Fires are banned everywhere in the park because the tops are full of very flammable dry plants. Park where there is no vegetation, and stick to the marked main track when driving.
Is the 4WD track manageable for kids on their own bikes?
Is there a café at the Royal Albatross Centre?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the centre has a café, along with a gift shop and an information gallery.
Do young kids cope with the albatross tour, or is it a bit much for them?
Are there toilets at Truby King Reserve?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, the reserve has toilets, plus picnic areas and walking tracks. Roadside parking on Russell Road is limited.
Has anyone done a guided tour of the old Seacliff asylum site? Are any on offer?
Is there car parking at Middle Beach in Dunedin?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, car parking is available at Middle Beach. Public transport is also listed for the site if you would rather not drive.
How windy does Middle Beach get, and is it still pleasant for a walk on a southerly day?
Are there toilets at the Nugget Point car parks?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, both Nugget Point car parks have toilets, so you can stop before or after the lighthouse walk or the penguin hide at Roaring Bay.
Is it easy to find a park near the beach at Kaka Point on a summer weekend?
Is Titri Creek Track a loop or do you walk back the same way?
DunnersCity guide
It's not a loop. You walk back the way you came, and the track is 1.5 km return.
Has anyone taken a pram along the open part to the first bridge? How is the surface?
Is there car parking at Tomahawk Beach?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there is car parking at Tomahawk Beach, and a picnic area as well.
Are there any public toilets close to Tomahawk Beach?
Is Lake Mahinerangi fly fishing only, or can I use bait and spinners?
DunnersCity guide
No, it isn't fly only. You can use artificial fly, spinner or bait, and the season runs 1 October to 30 September, so it's open all year. The bag limit is 4 fish.
Is there anywhere at Lake Mahinerangi that works for someone in a wheelchair?
Is it worth fishing the Waikouaiti up at Eldorado?
DunnersCity guide
Not really. Eldorado is the highest access point on the river, with very little water and fish few and far between for most of the season.
How long is the walk from the car to the pools at Orbells or Bucklands Crossing?
Are there stiles on the Long Beach South walking track?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, there are stiles at both entrances to the track. It is a flat grass track through Long Beach Recreation Reserve.
Is this a good little walk to take young kids on?
What length rod should I use for salmon off the wharf?
DunnersCity guide
A 12 foot rod is the best choice, because it keeps the float and a hooked salmon from tangling with the wharf piles. An eight foot rod with 20lb line is the general set-up.
Are there any toilets near the basin, or is it best to go before you come?
What bait works best on the lower Taieri for sea-run trout?
DunnersCity guide
Porina grubs are the most popular bait with locals, but they are only available in winter and spring. Ordinary earthworms also work well the rest of the year.
Where do you park to fish the estuary, and is it a long walk to the water?
How long is the Government Track in kilometres?
DunnersCity guide
The Government Track is 17 km return, and you go out and back on the same track.
Are there any toilets near the start of the Government Track?
Are there toilets at Sutton Salt Lake?
DunnersCity guide
No, there are no toilets at the reserve. Plan a stop in Outram or Middlemarch before you head out to the car park on Kidds Road.
Are there any steep bits on the loop, or is it mostly flat?
Can I fly a drone at Aramoana?
DunnersCity guide
No, not without a permit. Flying a drone at Aramoana without a permit is strictly prohibited, so leave it at home unless you have one.
Is there a boat ramp near the Mole at Aramoana, or do you launch somewhere else?
Can I buy bait and tackle in Karitāne?
DunnersCity guide
Not really. Karitāne is a small village, so buy your bait and tackle in Dunedin before you head out.
Is the foreshore a good spot for kids or beginners to fish?
Do I have to walk on the road at any point on the Chalkies Track?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, you walk about 900 m on the gravel Silverstream Valley Road whichever entrance you use. You share that stretch with vehicles, so keep an eye out for traffic.
How much shade is there on a hot day, especially higher up near the summit?
Does the Orokonui lagoon track flood after heavy rain?
DunnersCity guide
Yes, parts of the track can flood in heavy rain. Check the weather forecast before you go.
Is there much shade around the lagoon loop on a sunny afternoon?
Is the current strong on the lower Waipori River?
DunnersCity guide
It can be, especially in the tidal zone. Use about 1 to 1.5 oz of weight so you can cast out to the big pools and hold your bait against the current.
Has anyone taken a dog along when fishing the lower Waipori? Any issues with stock or hunters?
Can I launch a kayak or paddleboard on Hawksbury Lagoon?
DunnersCity guide
No. Any form of water transport is not permitted on the lagoon, so kayaks and paddleboards are out. It is a shallow wildlife refuge, less than half a metre deep.
Is the loop okay with a pram, especially along the causeway and the beach section?
Is the Heyward Point Track a loop or do I return the same way?
DunnersCity guide
It's not a loop. You come back the same way, and the track is 5 km return.
How steep is the drop down through the bush to Heyward Point?
Nothing here right now.