15 Most Romantic Accommodations in Dunedin ❤️ [2024]

Where to Find Honeymoon and Couples’ Accommodations in Dunedin

If life calls for a romantic getaway or perhaps Dunedin is included on your New Zealand honeymoon itinerary, then you’re going to need to set the tone right with an endearing place to stay. Whether you find romance in the ambience of a historic hotel, prefer something budget to enjoy more experiences together, or want to dive into a luxury lodge, there’s a romantic lodging to suit in Dunedin. We’ll go through all of our top picks in this list of the most romantic accommodations in Dunedin.

While you’re here, don’t miss the 10 Romantic Things to Do in Dunedin and The Romantic Getaway & Honeymoon Guide to Dunedin.

1. Camp Estate by Larnach Castle

Away from the hustle and bustle of Dunedin, this luxurious retreat is located right by Larnach Castle on the Otago Peninsula. Ideal for a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary, the luxury Camp Estate country house offers a small collection of couples’ rooms with designer gas fireplaces and black granite styling, giving each room a modern look with a heritage twist. Each night, be treated to complimentary pre-dinner drinks and canapes before dining in one of the Larnach Castle’s dining rooms. And, for more recommendations like this, be sure to check out our 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Dunedin.

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2. Ebb-Dunedin

Breaking the mould of the usual historic-building-turned-hotel vibe that Dunedin usually inspires, Ebb-Dunedin is your ultra-modern five-star offering in the city centre. Choose from a range of five stylishly appointed rooms, from your standard king or twin to a two-bedroom suite, each boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, an ensuite with either a walk-in shower or a deep-tub bath, a smart TV with streaming services and more. You’ll also want to book yourself a table at the on-site Ebb-Cafe in its airy atrium garden setting. Like the idea of staying in a romantic hotel? Be sure to also check out the 20 Best Hotels in Dunedin.

Check Ebb-Dunedin out:

10 Best Romantic Accommodation in Dunedin

3. Aurora on George

Contemporary meets urban meets garden at the attractive Aurora on George. While motels might not evoke thoughts of the most romantic type of accommodation, your mind will most probably be changed after a night in this four-star motel. Aurora on George boasts modern studios and suites with comfortable king beds, robes, slippers, Sky TV, free WiFi, ensuite, fully-equipped kitchen and even an umbrella for the Dunedin weather. Each room is extremely well-appointed with modern furniture. As for facilities, enjoy the beautiful inner-city flower garden of the motel, a fitness centre, as well as a cafe and restaurant on site. Discover more of Dunedin’s upscale motel stays in the 20 Best Motels in Dunedin.

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4. Captain Eady’s Lookout

This delightful homestay bed and breakfast is located in the quiet village of Portobello, a short drive from Dunedin on the Otago Peninsula. Captain Eady’s Lookout is situated on a bluff overlooking the harbour and is named after the ferry master from the era the house was built in. The character house features a gorgeous flower garden to enjoy while staying in one of the home’s two queen bedrooms with ensuites. Enjoy views across the harbour from your private elevated deck.

Check Captain Eady’s Lookout out:

5. Hotel St Clair

Swap the inner city for unbeatable waterfront views at Hotel St Clair. The award-winning boutique hotel features 26 self-contained rooms and suites located on Esplanade Parade by St Clair Beach. Most rooms boast glorious ocean views, while others have luxurious features like a deep-sunk spa bath and extra-large balconies to enjoy a glass of Otago wine. Rooms are incredibly well-appointed, with welcome additions such as underfloor heating in the bathroom.

Check Hotel St Clair out:

6. Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay

Stay at one of Dunedin’s prized landmarks in a prime position on the Otago Peninsula. The Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay offers affordable luxury in the refurbished historic stable, while Larnach Lodge is your four-star option. On the grounds of Larnach Castle, the purpose-built Larnach Lodge features 12 themed rooms with all your expected hotel amenities included. The lodge basks in breathtaking harbour scenery and includes a full-cooked breakfast in the historic stables and a complimentary visit to the castle, gardens and grounds.

Check Larnach Lodge out:

7. Beechwood Boutique Accommodation

An endearing 10-unit motel, Beechwood Boutique Accommodation is a good go-to for couples seeking self-catering accommodation. The studios are modernly renovated with light decor, yet cosy with features like underfloor heating and double-glazing. When you’re not relaxing in your spacious room, explore the Botanic Gardens in one direction and the city centre in the other. For more self-contained stays, head to the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Dunedin.

Check Beechwood Boutique Accommodation out:

8. Fable Dunedin

One of the most prestigious five-star hotels in the city centre, Fable Dunedin is an obvious go-to for couples celebrating a special occasion. Each of the 50 luxurious guest rooms is as lavish as the last with rich premium fabrics and furnishings inspired by the Scottish settlers of the region. Indulgence is at your fingertips with a wide selection of teas and a coffee machine in your room, as well as smart TVs and an interactive hotel compendium. If you manage to drag yourself from your room, The Press Club is awaiting, whether you fancy high tea or something from the extensive whisky menu.

Check Fable Dunedin out:

9. Artica Art & Accommodation

A quirky homestay in Port Chalmers, Artica Art & Accommodation offers something a little different for couples. The Victorian villa has been tastefully renovated with tasteful furnishings and artwork (some of which are for sale). The guest studio consists of an ensuite, tea/coffee-making facilities, a microwave, toaster and fridge. Your friendly hosts can also prepare a generous continental breakfast at an extra cost. For more affordable stays like this, check out the 15 Best Budget Accommodations in Dunedin.

Check Artica Art & Accommodation out:

10. Aria on Bank

With unique apartment layouts and a location right by the beautiful Dunedin Botanic Gardens, no wonder Aria on Bank is so popular with couples. What’s more, the modern build with contemporary mezzanine rooms and full kitchen facilities comes at an irresistibly affordable rate. With free on-site car parking, WiFi, high-pressure showers, TVs with Sky and more, everything is here for an effortless stay in Dunedin with that special someone.

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11. The Victoria Hotel Dunedin

Located moments away from Dunedin’s major city attractions, staying at The Victoria Hotel makes exploring Dunedin on a romantic weekend away all too easy! There is a range of rooms to suit different budgets, from harmless “Standard Rooms” to the ultra-luxurious “Victoria Executive Suite”. Breakfast and dinner are served at the on-site restaurant, the Well Manor Restaurant, which also provides room service. Extra facilities at the hotel include a gym, free Wifi, car parking at a cost and Tesla chargers.

Check The Victoria Hotel out:

12. Bluestone on George

Set the tone right by staying at this “adults-only” apartment hotel. The boutique Bluestone on George offers studio apartments with kitchenettes, laundry machines and ensuites. Indulge in your private double body therapy spa bath and feel the cosiness of the underfloor heating, bathrobes and double-glazed windows. There are also facilities to keep your fitness up to scratch at the on-site gym then undo all the hard worth by indulging in a continental breakfast or antipasto platters delivered straight to your room.

Check Bluestone on George out:

13. Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is more than just lodging, it’s a landmark. Set in an 1883 heritage building, the 4-star hotel radiates character and romance. Within the historic facade are fully refurbished guest rooms and modern amenities, from Tesla charging stations to free WiFi. The “Superior Rooms” and “Suites” provide your most luxurious option for a romantic getaway featuring his-and-her basins, while the “Standard Rooms” are still a fantastic option for couples on a budget. But at Scenic Hotel Southern Cross, the experience is more about the downtime, whether it’s indulging in a couple’s spa treatments at the Amaia Luxury Spa or trying your luck at the casino. What’s more, you’re only moments away from The Octagon in Dunedin city centre.

Check the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross out:

14. St Leonards Lodge

The expansive harbour views and historic ambience of St Leonards Lodge make a stay here feel straight out of a historical romance novel. The home is protected by The Historic Places Trust of New Zealand and is run as a luxury boutique hotel with four glorious rooms. On arrival, you’ll receive a complimentary fruit basket in your room, as well as fresh flowers and a tea/coffee minibar. On top of that, there are many wonderful spaces to enjoy together, both inside and out, from the pool table room to the tennis court. Find this lodge in St Leonards, between Dunedin city and Port Chalmers.

Check St Leonards Lodge out:

15. Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin

Another popular romantic hotel in Dunedin is the Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin by Millennium Hotels. Each of the hotel’s 55 rooms has a private balcony soaking up city views. While the “Standard Rooms” provide great value, the “Junior Suite” offers more space with a separate lounge and a larger balcony. Your stay is not complete without having dinner at the on-site restaurant, Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen where you can sample Kiwiana favourites together.

Check the Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin out:

More About Romantic Accommodations in Dunedin

That’s it for our list of the most romantic accommodations in Dunedin. For more handy guides to plan your trip to the architectural and wildlife capital, check out these:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Romantic Getaway & Honeymoon Guide to Dunedin.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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