Local Information
Mosgiel is situated just 12 kilometres south-west of Dunedin, divided from the city by rough hills. Mosgiel is a haven for those that seek the quietness of the country life while still being close to the city of Dunedin for work and pleasure. Mosgiel is the nearest township to the Dunedin International Airport and is often the choice of travellers when disembarking from an international flight – the Bella Vista Mosgiel is one of the closest motels to the airport. Mosgiel itself is recognised around the world as the home of Invermay, one of the country's largest agricultural research institutes.
Outdoor activities and attractions abound in and around Mosgiel. These include the internationally acclaimed Taieri Gorge Railway train trip (looked upon as one of the world's finest rail journeys). The picturesque Taieri River runs through the north end of the town and offers jet-boating & fly-fishing, as well as providing great open-water swimming in the summer. There is also a choice of golf courses, catering to beginners and professionals alike, within five minutes drive from the centre of Mosgiel.
In nearby Dunedin, a NZ town with a district Scottish flavour, you can enjoy the a wide variety of dining and entertainment options, visit the famous Speights Brewery, tour the Cadbury chocolate factory, or visit any of numerous noteworthy gardens, such as the formally laid out annual colour displays of the Dunedin Railway Station gardens, or the Glenfalloch Woodland Garden and Restaurant (a 30 acre harbourside garden featuring rhododendrons, fuchsias, azaleas and magnolias). A famous feature at the Botanic Garden is the Rhododendron Dell, which is celebrated every year in the third week of October with the Rhododendron Festival.
Close to Dunedin on the Otago Peninsula, you will find New Zealand's only castle. The scenic drive to and restored building and magnificent gardens of Larnach Castle - located 15 minutes drive from Dunedin City - makes it more than a worthwhile trip.
To sight a soaring albatross is unforgettable - a spectacle you can experience for yourself at the Royal Albatross Centre. This one hour tour starts at the Centre, nestled at the foot of Taiaroa Head. Your guide will begin by taking you through the bird's fascinating story. From the Centre, it's a short walk to the Observatory for the privilege of seeing for yourself the greatest of all seabirds (viewing varies during the year).
2 hours drive from Mosgiel, the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony offers a unique opportunity to observe the behaviour of blue penguins in their natural environment. Unobtrusive lighting is used to enhance the viewing area, as the penguins arrive after dusk. Visitors are led by a guide who delivers a light educational commentary.
The New Zealand Marine Studies Centre in Otago is also well worth a visit. Here you will discover unique and fascinating marine life of southern New Zealand. Unique marine eco-experiences cater for independent travellers, tour groups and families.
