A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Mount Aspiring National Park vs. Dunedin for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a cultural, vibrant, and small city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mount Aspiring National Park and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dunedin. Although Mount Aspiring National Park and Dunedin are both popular with visitors, Dunedin has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dunedin is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Dunedin is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula. It is also home to . Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.


How is Mount Aspiring National Park different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dunedin and Mount Aspiring National Park . Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dunedin can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Dunedin. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Dunedin offers plenty to do in the evening. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Dunedin has a beach worth visiting. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Many people include a hike when visiting Dunedin. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dunedin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Families?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Mount Aspiring National Park and Dunedin are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dunedin. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for couples. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Dunedin is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Students?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Dunedin is a great city to visit as a student. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Dunedin has a few public transit options. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin a more walkable city?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Dunedin

Dunedin is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Dunedin is a very walkable city. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

How long in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mount Aspiring National Park and Dunedin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than in Dunedin. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Mount Aspiring National Park , and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

Families should spend more time in Dunedin than Mount Aspiring National Park . Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dunedin, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Dunedin than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dunedin that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dunedin than Mount Aspiring National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Dunedin.


  • How many days in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mount Aspiring National Park 2-5 
    Dunedin 1-3

One day in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The hilly destination of Dunedin offers shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dunedin. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dunedin has to offer.

Five days in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Dunedin is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Dunedin. It offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Dunedin or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109, while the average daily cost in Dunedin is $102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mount Aspiring National Park and Dunedin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
    Dunedin $52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
    Dunedin $104
Compare Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park and Dunedin

Looking for a hotel in Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Hotels in Dunedin


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices and Dunedin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49
    Dunedin $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dunedin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dunedin:

  • Dunedin to Dunedin Int Airport (DUD) - Departure Private Transfer: $36
  • Private Transfer from Chalmers Cruise Port to Dunedin City Hotels: $43
  • Private Transfer from Chalmers Port to Dunedin Airport (DUD): $43
  • Private Transfer from Dunedin Airport (DUD) to Chalmers Port: $44
  • Momona Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Momona: $90
  • ONE WAY MOMONA: Transfer from /to Dunedin Airport: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Mount Aspiring National Park or Dunedin?

Prices for flights to both Dunedin and Mount Aspiring National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18
    Dunedin $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29
    Dunedin $17

Tours and Activities in Dunedin

Here are a few actual costs in Dunedin for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Dunedin Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Dunedin Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Olveston Historic Home Guided Tour: $15
  • Quickie Tours 1 Hour City Sights Tour CRUISE PASSENGERS ONLY: $24
  • Skip the Line: Larnach Castle & Gardens Admission Ticket: $27
  • Heritage Dunedin City Walking Guided Tour: $30
  • Garden and City tour: $36
  • Monarch Wildlife Cruise: $38
  • Shore Excursion: V8 Trike, Peninsula and City Tour: $48
  • Nature and City Tour: $54
  • A 2 hour Small Group Dunedin City Highlights Tour: $57
  • Wildlife Cruise with Transport: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09
    Dunedin $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Dunedin

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dunedin:

  • Speight Brewery Small Group Guided Tour from Dunedin: $21
  • Emerson's Brewery Tour: $24


When comparing the travel costs between Mount Aspiring National Park and Dunedin, we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive? and Is Dunedin Expensive?.