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Christchurch, New Zealand
Gateway to the South Island with a vibrant arts scene and the International Antarctic Centre nearby. Visit the Botanic Gardens and explore the rebuilt city centre. A great starting point before heading south for penguin spotting.
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Oamaru, New Zealand
Oamaru is world-famous for its Little Blue Penguin colony at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony — watch hundreds waddle ashore at dusk. The Victorian precinct is charming for an evening stroll. Yellow-eyed penguins can also be spotted at nearby Bushy Beach Reserve.
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Dunedin, New Zealand
Dunedin is the penguin capital of New Zealand — the Otago Peninsula hosts yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) and little blue penguins in their natural habitat. Take a guided tour to Penguin Place for a close-up conservation experience. The city itself has great Scottish heritage, craft beer, and fresh seafood.
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Muaupoko / Otago Peninsula, New Zealand
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Invercargill, New Zealand
New Zealand's southernmost city is a base for exploring the Catlins, where Fiordland crested penguins and yellow-eyed penguins can be seen at Curio Bay. Visit the Southland Museum for its famous tuatara enclosure. The wild coastline here is dramatic and largely crowd-free in August.
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Stewart Island, New Zealand
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Milford Sound, New Zealand
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Te Anau, New Zealand
The gateway to Fiordland National Park and the stunning Milford Sound cruise — a must-do even in winter. Fiordland crested penguins (tawaki) can be spotted along remote fiord shores. The area is one of the wettest and most dramatic landscapes in the country.
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Mount Cook, New Zealand
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Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
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Queenstown, New Zealand
Adventure capital of New Zealand set against the stunning Remarkables mountain range — perfect for skiing in August. Take a gondola ride for panoramic winter views and enjoy the buzzing restaurant and bar scene. Day trips to Glenorchy offer breathtaking Lord of the Rings landscapes.