What To See: There's lots to do in Dunedin

In Dunedin, the sun rises over the sea to shed light on a city tossed over hills at the edge of the southern Pacific Ocean. Its rays catch the spires of historical buildings in the university town, and as its 120,000 inhabitants wake, another magical Dunedin day begins.

The diverse experiences that Dunedin and its surrounding hinterland presents - scenic beauty, rare wildlife, a rich cultural and architectural heritage and proximity to many of New Zealand's world renowned tourist attractions - are unparalleled by any other centre in New Zealand or the world.

Dunedin locals are only too pleased to welcome visitors to their city, so they can spread a little of the Dunedin magic around.

In the city's centre most attractions are within easy walking distance from Trinity Court Motel. Much of the cityscape is itself a tribute to nineteenth century architecture, but step inside the likes of Olveston, Larnach Castle or one of the many other historic homes in the city and the voyage back in time is complete. The city's fine museums and art gallery also depict Dunedin's past. Dunedin is surrounded by green countryside and farmland. A trip on the Taieri Gorge Railway will explore Dunedin's hinterland, ranging from lush, green farmland to rugged tussock country. Also to be found in Dunedin is the world's steepest street (as recorded by the Guinness Book of Records).

Unique to Dunedin is its rare wildlife treasures which are all within a few kilometres of Trinity Court Motel. The Otago Peninsula is home to the world's only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross, which can be seen from land and sea, as well as colonies of fur seals and rare yellow-eyed penguins.

The University of Otago is an attractive blend of historic and modern buildings and is the base of Dunedin's growth and development. The Dunedin Botanic Garden has a colourful display of both native and exotic plants and flowers including Dunedin's famous rhododendron.

Nature has blessed Dunedin with an endless array of environments, each one a glimpse of scenic perfection.

Dunedin is a city of the sea with tumultuous surf beaches of pristine white sand, wild ocean cliffs and quiet harbour coves locked within its hills.

Dunedin is a city of the land, where green folds of fertile valleys rise up to tussock-covered ranges and on to the sculptured rock pillars of its inland ranges.

The spirit of Dunedin is captured in the many local events and attractions on offer. Festivals are regular fare in a city which needs no excuse to party. The arrival of summer, regional food and wine, the springtime rhododendron bloom and even the city's Scottish origins are all honoured in inimitable Dunedin style.

Dunedin has all the attractions that you would expect in a big city - art gallery and multiplex cinemas, concerts and live theatre. You're spoilt for choice by the city's range of restaurants, clubs, bars and cafes, while the heartwarming experience of music in a local pub is not to be missed.

The difference is that they're all within walking distance from Trinity Court Motel and each other. Even at night you feel safe to stroll from one to the other, or wander back to Trinity Court Motel.

In summer, daytime stretches long into the evening hours as the city takes full advantage of daylight saving.

And tomorrow, the sun will rise again on another magical Dunedin day.