Dunedin Bella Vista

Introducing your hosts; Garry, Robyn & Mac.
Garry and his family moved to Dunedin in 1999, after 20 years’ service in the Navy, to bring his children up away from Auckland. I moved to Dunedin in 2010 after living in the UK for 31/2 years to be closer to my family who live in Gore and Oamaru.  We met on the bowling green at Macandrew Bay where we both lived.

Prior to buying Bella Vista Dunedin, Garry was a marquee rigger for Hirepool which he enjoyed but was rather taxing on the body and Robyn worked as a Clinical Nurse Manager in Aged Care and was looking for something that would be less stressful. While on holiday in Australia, we were staying at a motel and decided that this was something we could both do and together. We both love to interact with people and this would be a good way to work our way towards retirement.

Mac is the biggest personality among us and loves welcoming all our guests to the motel.

Dunedin, Otago - Your Destination
Dunedin is a beautiful city with a unique charm, set at the end of the Otago Harbour. The Maori explorers began arriving to the Dunedin surrounds from about 1100AD fishing the coastal waters and travelling inland in pursuit of the Moa, duck and freshwater fish. During the 1820’s the rough, tough and enterprising whalers came and intermarried with the local s. When the Scot’s arrived in 1848, seeking new lands on which to settle, they found the area rich in Maori history. When gold was found in Central Otago in the 1860’s, Dunedin grew rapidly with many businesses, schools and banking institutions being established and the port grew to cope with the influx of people and business coming to Dunedin. Also, during this time many Chinese goldminers came to Otago following the gold and later settled in Dunedin ensuring a rich cultural diversity.

Dunedin is a treasure trove of experiences, offering visitors a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From stunning beaches and heritage gardens to an exciting food scene, chic fashion boutiques, and an abundance of outdoor activities, there's something for everyone in this charming city.

Step back in time as you explore the city's architecture—majestic Victorian and Edwardian buildings, many crafted from sturdy stone, were once home to booming businesses during Dunedin's rapid growth. The iconic Dunedin Railway Station, often considered the most photographed building in New Zealand, is a must-see. Nearby, the University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, stands as a testament to the city's rich academic history. For a glimpse into Edwardian life, visit Olveston, a grand historic house, or take a trip to Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, perched high above the spectacular Otago Harbour.

Dunedin is also home to several remarkable museums. The Toitu Otago Settlers Museum offers insights into the region’s past, while The Otago Museum and Hocken Library boast impressive collections of rare books, manuscripts, and art. The Dunedin Public Library is equally captivating, housing treasures like historical paintings and the works of iconic artists. The Dunedin Public Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, with masterpieces including works by Monet and several by Francis Hodgkins. The Dunedin Chinese Garden, a beautiful reflection of the city’s Chinese heritage, offers a peaceful escape.

Nature enthusiasts will feel at home in Dunedin, often called the eco-capital of New Zealand, thanks to its proximity to some of the world’s most unique wildlife. The Royal Albatross colony, the only mainland breeding ground for these magnificent birds, is just one of the city’s natural wonders. You can also spot rare Yellow-eyed Penguins and the endangered New Zealand Hooker Sea Lions, all within easy reach.

Outdoor pursuits abound, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes. Discover the beauty of the Dunedin Botanic Garden, or take a scenic walk along the Leith Walkway. For something a little more rugged, venture to Tunnel Beach and experience its striking coastal cliffs, or follow the Dunedin Street Art Trail and uncover the city’s vibrant creative spirit. Cyclists can enjoy trails around Signal Hill and Ross Creek, while golfers can test their skills at the Otago Golf Club, the oldest golf club in the Southern Hemisphere.

Don’t forget to explore some of the city’s unique attractions, such as the historic Dunedin Railways, Speights Brewery, and Emerson’s Brewery. Dunedin is a place where every corner offers something new and exciting, making it a destination that invites you to explore, discover, and experience all it has to offer.

Our Community Involvement
Garry and I are both very involved in playing bowls. This gives us both an outside interest and helps us meet our friends and stay in touch with the wider community.

Bella Vista Dunedin supports Sinclair Wetlands in the Tairei Plain – for every ‘No Service’ Bella Vista donates $1.00 towards the development of the area. Since we started this project we have donated more than $750.00 which equates to 750 trees.

We also provide complimentary Tuatara Coffee which supports the Tuatara and we have a Hospice Snack Box in the office for guests to buy snacks to support the Otago Community Hospice.
 

Our Sustainability Practices

• We offer a towel change agreement which ensures you are helping the environment by reducing energy and water use.
• We request you switch off all heaters, lights, appliances, electric blankets before you leave your room.
• We use low energy lights bulbs in at least 90% of our premises.
• We aim to use dispensers for high quality toiletries, enabling us to buy these in bulk.
• We endeavour to source our bulk products from suppliers who supply reusable containers.
• We donate bedspreads, towels, etc, to a local charity.
• We offer you the option of you washing your clothes on a cold water cycle in our guest laundry, and hang them to dry on our outside line.
• For each ‘No Service’ we have committed to donating $1.00 to an environmental charity – Sinclair Wetlands Trust near Waihola.
• We are avidly recycle, from guest rubbish our own household waste and we operate a composting bin for green scraps.
• We have installed double glazing to keep the rooms warmer and the cold out

Bella Vista Dunedin is a 4 star Qualmark rated property and awarded Gold status under the Sustainable Tourism Business criteria which is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Founded in 2007, the GSTC is a United Nations-initiated programme which sets the global baseline standards for sustainable travel and tourism.

We look forward to hosting you!