Abundant tourism riches missed

While spending at least three years in Dunedin completing degrees, students tend not to make the most of the tourist opportunities available in the city.

iSite Dunedin Visitor Centre second in charge Peter Campbell said the centre did not get many domestic students coming in - that was, until their parents visited, and then those same students wanted to show their parents around.

International students, on the other hand, made the most of wildlife tours and excursions, as they wanted to see the penguins and seals living on the coast.

To change this, Mr Campbell wanted to stimulate students to get out and explore the range of activities and sights on offer in and around Dunedin.

"I think it's something that should be encouraged."

He knew students' budgets were often tight, but said numerous low-cost options were available.

The Discovery World Tropical Forest butterflies at the Otago Museum were very popular and could be enjoyed for less than $10.

The Dunedin Public Art Gallery was a great, free attraction.

"I'd be disappointed if they didn't check it out.

Especially art students," he said.

Other options included the Chinese Garden, the Larnach Castle gardens and Olveston, which were all under $16 to see.

The castle had an interesting history full of sordid details, which would appeal to students, he said.

For a quirkier time, he recommended the Hair Raiser Ghost Tours.

While a bit more expensive, at $30, they promised participants a spine-tingling look at the city.

By the end of their time in Dunedin, Mr Campbell also hoped students would have made it to Taiaroa Head to see the albatross colony.

"Even if they don't do the tour, it's still worth going out there," he said.

Popular day trips included a drive north to the Moeraki Boulders or a trip south to The Catlins, which offered fantastic scenery, beaches, wildlife and copious bush walks.

For more information, visit www.dunedin.govt.nz/visitor-centre

ellie.constantine@odt.co.nz

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