Port Chalmers

Port Chalmers is a town and the main port of Dunedin, located on the Otago Harbour approximately 15 km north-east of central Dunedin. It is the deep-water port serving Dunedin and the southern South Island.

Port Chalmers has a rich maritime history and a vibrant arts community. The town has a main street with cafes and galleries, and the Port Chalmers Museum. The port handles cargo including logs, wool, and fertilizer. Cruise ships also call here.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Dunedin Airport (DUD), approximately 30 km south-west.

By Car / Road

Port Chalmers is on State Highway 88, about a 15-minute drive from central Dunedin. Bus services connect Port Chalmers to Dunedin.

The town is walkable.

Port Chalmers Port — Deep-water port with container and cargo operations.

Port Chalmers Museum — Maritime and local history.

Port Chalmers Main Street — Galleries, cafes, and boutique shops.

Otago Harbour — Views of the harbour and the Otago Peninsula.

Watch ships arriving and departing. Browse the art galleries. Walk the harbour foreshore. Visit the museum.

Port Chalmers has excellent cafes and restaurants, particularly seafood.

Cafes serve coffee. Port Chalmers has a hotel bar.

Port Chalmers has a few accommodation options. Dunedin has a wider range.

Port Chalmers has galleries, a supermarket, and local shops.

• Dunedin — 15 km south-west, wildlife and heritage
• Otago Peninsula — 20 km east, albatross colony and penguins
• Careys Bay — 3 km north-east, scenic harbour views
• Pūrākaunui — 10 km north, waterfalls and walking
• Moeraki Boulders — 80 km north, geological wonder