Harbour Cone Sanctuary

01/06/2026

What a stunning start to the winter season at Harbour Cone Sanctuay on the Otago Peninsula. We feel so blessed to be the guardians of this magical place 🪷

23/04/2026

Receiving such wonderful feedback from our guests is what makes hosting so rewarding. Here is our latest review: "This fairytale forest cabin was one of the most unique memories from our honeymoon! The entire cottage reflects the host's excellent aesthetic taste and thoughtful consideration, and it is decorated in a warm and beautiful way (I want to bring every detail home with me!). The facilities are well-equipped, clean, and comfortable. After staying for two days, I didn't want to leave. Sandra and Dieter were incredibly friendly. Sandra's attention to detail in the cottage and her thoughtful consideration of guests' needs (she even provided hot water bottles) made her the best, best, best host I've ever met. She also provided us with a lot of information and recommendations for exploring the peninsula. It was truly wonderful! If I get the chance, I'd love to stay here again!"

05/04/2026

Harbour Cone Sanctuary is located very close to the rarest penguins in the world. We don’t want them to starve, we want them to thrive!! We agree 100% with WWF 🙌

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1B3XCEJiAQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Sign The Petition ✍️💚

29/03/2026

Looks like us locals 🦭😆

28/03/2026

Wishing you a fabulous, frolicking weekend! 🌸✨
May it be filled with laughter, sunshine, and a little bit of Nature’s magic like here on the Otago Peninsula (with sealions and Harbour Cone in the background). Enjoy every moment! 🦭🌿

20/01/2026

Only 30 minutes from Harbour Cone Sanctuary is the Dunedin Railway station, which The Telegraph has just named as one of "the world's 20 most spectacular railway stations".

Dunedin Railway Station is an incredible piece of built heritage and is absolutely a taoka (treasure) of not just our city, but Aotearoa.

Colloquially known as one of the most photographed buildings in the Southern Hemisphere, the incredible exterior, matched by the ornate artistry of the interior, has long been one of the city’s main drawcards. It’s also the gateway to astounding scenic train journeys along the coast and through the incredible Taieri Gorge. It is one of the highlights for our guests who stay a bit longer at the Sanctuary.

The Dunedin Railway Station has been a city icon since 1906 and is one of New Zealand’s most photographed landmarks.

19/01/2026

At Harbour Cone Sanctuary on the Otago Peninsula we look forward to seeing the Aurora australis tonight! The Sanctuary is in prime position to see this nighttime spectacle ✨

Tonight the Sky Could Dance — New Zealand’s Aurora Australis Alert!

Tonight could be one of those rare celestial evenings that Kiwis will remember forever. Thanks to a massive solar eruption and a geomagnetic storm pegged at the highest level possible, the Aurora Australis — the Southern Lights — might blaze across New Zealand’s night sky. Charged particles from the sun are colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, energising our upper atmosphere and lighting it up in shades of green, violet, and red. 

To catch the show, head outside after dark (especially between 9 pm and 3 am) and face south toward the horizon. The further you are from city lights, the better your chances. Clear skies and dark locations like Aoraki/Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, Stewart Island, or the Catlins give you the highest possibility of seeing this cosmic spectacle. 

Even if your eyes see only a whisper of colour, a camera with long exposure can reveal a stunning light show. So grab your camera, dress warmly, and look skyward — tonight could be a night of magic across New Zealand. 

13/01/2026

We are super proud of our neighbours Gus, Jana and the team from Augustines of Portobello, Otago Peninsula, to receive these well deserved nation wide published compliments. Our guests love walking to your Farmstore Café for breakfast, lunch or an irresistable treat! 🍰

We are highlighting some great spots in the lower part of the South Island - from choux pastries to blue cod, fresh salmon, pāua wontons and of course - more pies.

01/01/2026

Dunedin- and its crown jewel, the Otago Peninsula-has been named New Zealand’s most beautiful city. 🎉 This stunning view captures Larnach Castle, just a 10-minute drive from our lodges at Harbour Cone Sanctuary. We are happily nestled at the base of iconic Harbour Cone, enjoying the sunny side and spectacular panoramic views. Come and experience the peace and beauty of this natural haven yourself 👋

🌿 Dunedin: New Zealand’s Timeless Beauty, Carved by Nature and History

Nestled between dramatic hills and the wild southern coast, Dunedin has long been celebrated as one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking cities — and for good reason. In 2018, Dunedin was officially named New Zealand’s Most Beautiful City at the Keep New Zealand Beautiful Awards, a recognition that reflected far more than postcard views.

This is a city where Victorian and Edwardian architecture meets rugged coastlines, where albatross soar above the Otago Peninsula and mist rolls gently through heritage streets. From the grandeur of the railway station to the steep drama of Baldwin Street, Dunedin’s beauty lies in its contrasts — elegant yet wild, historic yet youthful.

Beyond its looks, Dunedin’s charm is shaped by its people, its strong environmental values, and its deep connection to nature. Beaches like St Clair and Tunnel Beach sit minutes from the city, while native wildlife thrives just beyond the suburbs. It’s a place that feels authentic, creative, and quietly powerful.

Dunedin doesn’t shout for attention — it earns it.

31/12/2025

✨ Reflecting on a Year of Wonderful Guests & Peace in Nature ✨

As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank all of our guests who chose to make our Boutique Eco Lodges a part of their journey. 🌿 Whether you woke up to the chorus of native birds, gazed out at the stunning bush and ocean views, or found peace in the heart of our protected nature sanctuary, we hope you left with unforgettable memories.

Looking ahead to the new year, we’re excited to continue offering a peaceful, sustainable retreat for those seeking connection with nature, privacy, and tranquility. Whether you're planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or celebrating a special occasion, we can’t wait to welcome you into our little slice of paradise on the iconic Harbour Cone.

Here’s to new adventures, nature's beauty, and a year filled with peace, joy, and eco-conscious travel. 🌍🌱

Wishing you all a wonderful new year! 🌟 Sandra and Team