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SCENIC HOTEL SOUTHERN CROSS, Dunedin – A Smart Stay in the City

•
8.2|Great
Check rooms and rates
From$96 /nightOnly on Our Website-10%
Check-in
02Nov
Check-out
03Nov
Guests
2 Guests
Key details

About the Hotel

118 High Street, Dunedin, 9016
-
Steps from Speight's Brewery
Great
8.2
8.6
/10
4.0
4.0
/5

4-Star Central Dunedin Accommodation with Extensive Conference Facilities

Location

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is located on High Street, close to Princes Street, just a short walk from the Octagon, railway station, theatres, and Otago University. The central positioning allows convenient access to entertainment, shopping, and dining options in Dunedin. On-site car parking is available for $25.00 per day, with Tesla charging for an additional $30 per night.

Rooms

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross offers 178 guest rooms, including a range of room types suitable for various guests. Superior Rooms feature a King bed or Twin Double beds, while tower suites provide additional space with a kitchenette and balcony. The Presidential Suites include a separate lounge and dining area, offering more of a home-like experience.

Dining

With three in-house dining options, Scenic Hotel Southern Cross caters to diverse culinary preferences. The Carlton Restaurant serves both buffet and à la carte breakfast, while Ports O'Call Bar & Grill focuses on local cuisine and family-friendly dining. Boldini Café offers light meals and coffee for those looking for a casual snack.

Business Facilities

Known as Dunedin's largest hotel, Scenic Hotel Southern Cross offers extensive conference facilities, including nine function rooms with flexible configurations. The Heritage and Cargill Rooms, located on the ground floor, provide ample space for large gatherings, and the hotel's event coordinators assist with planning and catering. Competitive delegate packages are available for business groups and events.

Family Offerings

The hotel provides multiple family-friendly room options, accommodating families in various configurations, including interconnecting rooms. Ports O'Call Bar & Grill features a kids' menu, ensuring younger guests enjoy their meals. The location near local attractions offers opportunities for family exploration in Dunedin.

Highlights

Location: close to Otago university

Dining: Ports O'Call Bar & Grill

Rooms: Tower Suites

Business: competitive delegate packages

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the Otago Museum for fascinating local history and culture.
  • Taste the famous cheese rolls at the local cafés; they're a must-try.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Dunedin Botanic Garden for serenity.
  • Explore the historic Larnach Castle and its stunning grounds.
  • Don't miss the unique street art in Dunedin's North East Valley.

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
  • Standard King Room
    2 persons
    345 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Superior Twin Room Two Double Beds
    2 persons
    370 sq. feet
    2 Double beds
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Standard Twin Room
    2 persons
    345 sq. feet
    2 Double beds
    Bathtub
    Heating
Show all rooms

Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
Facilities: Great
8.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Services

  • Valet parking
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Spa & Leisure

  • Casino

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross offers a delightful array of dining experiences, blending comfort with culinary creativity in a welcoming atmosphere. From hearty breakfasts to cozy dinners, each venue invites guests to indulge in flavorful dishes and local charm.
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Dunedin Restaurant photo
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Dunedin Restaurant photo
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Dunedin Restaurant photo

The Carlton

Breakfast offerings with vegetarian and gluten-free options
Ambiance
Bright and welcoming space perfect for energizing mornings
Key Offerings
Enjoy a wholesome breakfast featuring a range of dishes including vegetarian selections. Start the day right with a variety of fresh and vibrant flavors.
Reservation
Not needed
Monday to Friday: 6:30 AM - 9:30 AM, Saturday and Sunday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Ports O'Call Bar & Grill

Grill with a focus on vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Ambiance
A relaxed setting ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration
Key Offerings
Indulge in a diverse menu featuring grilled specialties along with delightful vegetarian dishes. Perfect for evening meals with a casual yet refined atmosphere.
Reservation
Not needed
Daily: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Boldini Café and Wine Bar

Casual dining with lighter meals and fine wines
Ambiance
A vibrant café located off the lobby, welcoming hotel guests and the public
Key Offerings
Sip on rich coffee while enjoying lighter fare like sweet potato and peanut bisque, complemented by an impressive selection of wines. A lively spot to relax and savor simple yet sophisticated bites.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily for breakfast and light meals; exact hours may vary.

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Location

118 High Street, Dunedin, 9016
Map view
Nearby
Casino
Grand Casino Dunedin
1000 ft
Church
First Church of Otago
1200 ft
The Octagon
Robert Burns Statue
1600 ft
Church
St Joseph's Cathedral School
1500 ft
200 Rattray St
Speight's Brewery
1000 ft
Museum
Whakamana Cannabis Museum
400 ft
Gallery
Gallery De Novo
1700 ft
Garden
Queens Garden
1000 ft
192 Princes St
Whakamana: the Cannabis Museum of Aotearoa
500 ft
Gallery
Milford Galleries
400 ft
441 Princes Street
2nd Floor Yoga
1200 ft
55 Princes St
Moray Gallery
1200 ft
Restaurants
Speight's Alehouse
800 ft
200 Rattray Street 200 Rattray St
Dunedin Casino
100 ft
118 High Street
Zucchini Bros
300 ft
286 Princes Street The Exchange
The Carlton Restaurant
100 ft
118 High Street
Taste Nature
100 ft
131 High Street
Ports O' Call Bar
100 ft
118 High Street
Parcels Restaurant
400 ft
6 Liverpool Street
Catalyst
400 ft
286 Princes Street
Punjab Indian Tandoori Restaurant
500 ft
192 Princes Street
Vanguard
700 ft
329 Princes Street
Etrusco at the Savoy
1200 ft
8 Moray Place First floor
Explore Dunedin
Explore Dunedin
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
13 minutes' walk
A museum showcasing the history of the Otago region through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
Olveston Historic Home
Olveston Historic Home
14 minutes' walk
A grand Edwardian home featuring beautifully preserved rooms and guided tours highlighting its history.
Dunedin Botanic Garden
Dunedin Botanic Garden
6-minute drive
New Zealand's oldest botanic garden with diverse plant collections, walking paths, and picnic areas.
Dunedin Chinese Garden
Dunedin Chinese Garden
13 minutes' walk
A tranquil garden that reflects traditional Chinese culture and includes a stunning pond and teahouse.
Speight's Brewery Tour
4 minutes' walk
A brewery tour offering insights into local beer production, plus tastings of Speight's famous brews.
St Clair Beach
3-minute drive
A picturesque beach perfect for relaxation, walking, or enjoying local cafes along the shoreline.
Zucchini Bros
Zucchini Bros
2 minutes' walk
An Italian restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious pizzas made from fresh ingredients.
Speight's Alehouse
Speight's Alehouse
3 minutes' walk
A casual eatery known for hearty Kiwi favorites, craft beers, and a welcoming pub atmosphere.
Dunedin Casino
Dunedin Casino
1 minute' walk
An entertainment venue with dining options, gaming, and live events in a vibrant environment.
Grand Casino Dunedin
Grand Casino Dunedin
4 minutes' walk
Offers gaming options, live music, and themed events in a lively casino environment for adults.
Dunedin Public Art Gallery
Dunedin Public Art Gallery
14 minutes' walk
Features a wide range of contemporary art exhibits and is ideal for families and culture lovers alike.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Dunedin 3 min  ·  700 ft
  • Airports
    Dunedin (DUD) 44 min  ·  17.9 mi
  • Train
    Dunedin Railway Station 9 min  ·  2300 ft
    Taieri Gorge Railway 14 min  ·  3700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of NZD 36.0 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2008
Number of floors:
7
Number of rooms:
178

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Guests consistently appreciate the convenient location near Octagon square, with easy access to restaurants and bus stops. Many find the beds comfortable and rooms spacious, equipped with all necessary facilities. The breakfast offers good value, especially the gluten-free options; however, some have noted the rooms can appear a bit old-fashioned compared to the modern reception area. Central Otago wines for sale are highly recommended by some visitors.
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Review score
Based on 3 verified reviews
7.6 /10
Very good
67%
Recommend
Location
9.0/10
Staff
9.0/10
Facilities
8.2/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Pros
Comfy bed
Friendly staff
Well-appointed room
Cons
Residual smoke
Guest reviews
based on 3 reviews
7.6/10
based on 1094 reviews
4/5
based on 1718 reviews
8.2/10
emma from australia
Family with children
superior king room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: December 17, 2025
8.7/10

central and convenient location

helpful staff onsite parking breakfast selection comfortable bed
the front desk staff was very helpful. onsite parking was available though it cost $25 per day. breakfast had a good selection. the bed was very comfortable.
the beautiful room faced a brick wall, so it was small and dark
Dining
8/10
the breakfast buffet included many choices. ingrid was helpful with my wife's dietary needs. the restaurant service was slow, taking 60 minutes for a simple steak dish.
Rooms
9/10
the room was very comfy and tidy, offering decent views. the wooden flooring throughout the hotel shined. the room included modern amenities and a stylish bed, giving a vintage feel.
Location
9/10
the hotel is in the heart of the city. it provides easy access to many nearby restaurants, shops, and the octagon. the speights brewery is located nearby this hotel.
0 Helpful
|
Isaac from United States
Couple
Superior King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 06, 2025
9.0/10

Fantastic Hotel Experience!

friendly team seamless check-in great service central location
The hotel had a friendly team. The check-in process was seamless. The restaurant service was great. The location was indeed central and very convenient. I enjoyed the breakfast and the available restaurant. The staff was helpful with directions.
I found the absence of air conditioning slightly inconvenient during warmer periods. The windows could not be fully opened, which somewhat limited fresh air circulation.
Service
9/10
The staff offered prompt assistance and were generally responsive to requests. The reception staff provided a warm welcome and helpful information. The hotel team ensured a seamless experience throughout my stay, and I really appreciated their attention.
Location
10/10
The hotel boasts a very convenient location near essential amenities. Many restaurants and bars are located within close proximity. The hotel is within an easy walking distance to the town center, that I appreciated a lot.
Rooms
9/10
The room was clean and quite comfortable. The beds were REALLY comfy, I slept very well!!! My room offered a great view of the city. It also overlooked the harbor, beautiful.
Dining
8/10
The hotel had a breakfast buffet. The buffet offered many options. The restaurant provided Central Otago wines for sale. Paddons Paddock and Māori Point Rd wines were available.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Single
Superior King Room
3 nights in June 2026
|
Reviewed: August 09, 2025
5/10
uncomfortable bed bed ridge
The breakfast facilities met my basic needs, I suppose.
The room lacked air conditioning. This was unacceptable. I found the bed uncomfortable. It consisted of two single beds pushed together. There was a noticeable ridge down the center of the bed,, to put it mildly, unpleasant.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Scenic Hotel Southern Cross
Is there a parking facility for guests at Scenic Hotel Southern Cross? If so, is there a charge for it?
10 November 2024
Parking is available for $20 per night.
Can guests park their vehicles onsite during their stay?
5 January 2025
Yes, onsite parking is offered for $20 per night.
Are there any fees associated with parking at the hotel?
15 February 2025
Yes, parking incurs a fee of $20 per night.
Is it possible for visitors to bring their cars and park at the hotel?
20 March 2025
Absolutely! Guests can park for a fee of $20 per night.
What options are available for dining at Scenic Hotel Southern Cross?
25 April 2025
The hotel features three in-house restaurants and a 24-hour room service menu.
What types of cuisine can guests expect from the hotel's dining options?
30 May 2025
Guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including buffet and a la carte dining.
How far is Scenic Hotel Southern Cross from popular attractions like the Octagon?
2 June 2025
The hotel is just a short walk from the Octagon and other local attractions.
What amenities does the hotel offer for business travelers?
12 July 2025
The hotel features extensive conference facilities suitable for various business events.
Are there options for fitness and wellness activities at Scenic Hotel Southern Cross?
18 September 2025
Yes, guests have access to an onsite fitness centre during their stay.
How accessible is Scenic Hotel Southern Cross for those visiting Dunedin for sightseeing?
1 August 2025
The hotel is centrally located, making it convenient for exploring Dunedin's sights.

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