Harbourside Path

Designed for walkers and cyclists, this path is just the beginning of a longer, wonderfully picturesque adventure. With seabirds, ships, sailboats and refreshing sea breezes in the mix, it’s hard to imagine a better family walk so close to a major city.

Where is it?

Along the edge of Otago Harbour from Vauxhall at the head of the harbour to St Leonards on the way to Port Chalmers. Note there are other stretches of this project under construction, including along the peninsula from Vauxhall to Macandrew Bay.

DOGS ALLOWED

TIME & DISTANCE: Approx 1hr 15min each way; 6km

FITNESS: Low fitness required – great for families

TERRAIN: Flat, sealed and well-maintained

Track Overview

Eventually there will be a path from Port Chalmers all the way around to Otago Peninsula with a total distance of 42km. That’s a few years away but meanwhile, a good chunk of it can be enjoyed, tracing the harbour edge.

From Vauxhall Yacht Club on Portobello Rd, the path crosses the causeway, winds through the harbourside precinct and crosses the Water of Leigh at its mouth, by way of an inspiring, architecturally-designed bridge near the Forsyth Barr Stadium. From there, it continues along the harbour edge to St Leonards. It’s an accessible, achievable, good fun walk with lots of interest and plenty of photo opportunities, too, with Mt Cargill and the peninsula providing the backdrop.

Drop into Dunedin

Compact and handsome, Dunedin is dressed in Edwardian and Victorian architecture, entwined with intriguing alleyways, boutique stores, cafés and gardens. It's also very walkable, which should please readers who have picked up this guide!

Port Chalmers lookout © Dunedin NZ

Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz/Hotels