Otago Harbour General Information & Parking
Charging Stations
For charging stations for your ebikes, please see the main map, or check with tour operators or eatery staff before you go if you think you may need a charge.
Terrain
The cycleway is mainly flat except if you go from Portobello to Taiaroa Head, there are a couple of hills near the albatross colony.
Distance/time
The distance from Portobello to Port Chalmers by road is approx 38 kms.
For some people this may take approx 2 hours without and stops and light weather conditions.
The ferry crossing is approx 10 minutes on the Sootychaser, or 2.4 kms across the harbour.
The vessel is partially enclosed and can be heated, capacity of up to 15 bikes and their riders.
Toilets
Public toilets can be found at the following locations: Portobello by the playground, Broad Bay by the Boating Club, Dunedin at the base of steamer Basin, Port Chalmers main street, near the service station, Back Beach at Port Chalmers. And at most of the attractions and eateries. See main map for public toilets.
Parking
St Leonards – West Harbour – Numerous parking spaces.
Vauxhall Yacht Club – East Harbour – It best to only park here Monday to Friday, as weekends can be busy with yacht club activities on the weekends. Please fill the park spaces at the south side of carpark first.
Paid parking – Central Dunedin Wilsons parking locations – click link to see many parking locations. It's advisable to pay for minimum 4 hours parking when cycling the loop, just in case.
Port Chalmers Yacht Club – Please use single parks, not the long ones meant for boat trailers. Can be busy on weekends with yacht club activities. Best to use this parking on weekdays. Right by the departure point for Port To Port Cycle Ferry.
Portobello – Latham Bay Playground – The most parking available in Portobello. A short ride to the departure point for Port To Port Cycle Ferry.
Portobello Wharf – There are a few parks here. But it's best to park at the Portobello – Latham Bay Playground instead as this area is used by Portobello Yacht Club and other spaces are often used by ferry passengers who have limited mobility. Right by the departure point for Port To Port Cycle Ferry.
Broad Bay Yacht Club – Best to park here during the week as it can be busy on weekends with yacht club activities.
Otago Yacht Club – Dunedin Central – Some of the best parking when cycling the loop. Go to the far end (northern end) to get closest to the cycleway. Park at the dead end.
Bayfield Park Playground – Andersons Bay – Some of the best parking for cycling the loop. Numerous parking and free.
Harbour Molars – Portsmouth Drive – Not a lot of parking and can be busy on weekends. Best on weekdays as fills up quickly.
Ravensbourne Boating Club – Limited parking.
Macandrew Bay Boating Club – Can be busy on weekends.
Great Rides App
Download the Great Rides App to track your ride in real time and see other amazing, nearby cycle trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will it take to cycle the Harbour Loop?
A: For moderately fit people with no stops, it takes about two hours. We recommend that people allow 3 hours just in case of any hold ups, weather, wind or unexpected problems. Especially if you are catching the Port To Port Cycle Ferry, as the ferry leaves right on time.
Q: Is the Dunedin harbour Cycleway flat?
A: Yes its mostly flat and paved. There are a couple of small, short slopes, all graded as easy.
Q: How long is the Otago Harbour Cycleway?
A: Its approx 32 kilometres. The Port To Port ferry trip is an additional 3kms across the harbour.
Q: Is the Harbour Cycleway family-friendly?
A: Yes, all ages enjoy this ride. Very small children may find it challenging due to the length/time. But there are many children from ages 6 and up who can cycle the Harbour Cycleway without assistance.
Cafes and bathrooms are available on both sides for refreshments, especially for small children who may need more stops.
Q: Whats the best direction to cycle around the Harbour Loop?
A: There is no 'best way'. You will likely be pushing the wind one way and with it behind you the other regardless. People tend to base their direction on things like where they would like to eat (pubs and cafe visits or lunch bookings at Careys Bay Historic Hotel). Or meeting up with friends, or parking preferences.
Q: Where Can I rent a bike from in Dunedin?
A: There are many quality bike hire rental shops in Dunedin. See the listings on rentals and services page of this website.
Q: How long does it take to cycle the Otago Habour Loop?
A: Allow between 2 and 4 hours to cycle the Otago Harbour Loop (32 kms). This allows for any unexpected hold ups as well as schedules stops for food, photos and the ferry crossing.
(Without any hold ups or stops some moderately fit people can complete it in 2 hours.)
Q: Do I need to book the cycle ferry to cross the Otago Harbour?
A" Yes, its highly recommended to book the Port to Port Ferry in advance to secure your seats. The ferry provides a 10 minute scenic ride between Port Chalmers and Portobello allowing you to complete the Loop. Port To Port provides a special cyclists guide when using the ferry.
Q: Is the Dunedin Cycleway good for beginners and families?
A:Yes! The harbourside path is mostly flat, fully sealed and off road. making it incredibly safe and enjoyable for riders of all ages and skill levels.
Q: Where can i park my car before starting the cycle trail?
A: There are multiple free public car parks along the harbour circuit. The most popular and spacious parking areas for starting your ride are at Latham Bay playground (Portobello), Back Beach (Port Chalmers), St Leonards and Otago Yacht Club and Bayfield park.
Q: What should I wear and pack fore the Dunedin bike ride?
A: Dunedin's weather can be changeable. So its best to dress in warm layers. Always bring a wind breaker, a waterproof jacket and a water bottle and fully charged cell phone.
