Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

CENTRAL DUNEDIN • ON-SITE CASINO • HISTORIC ELEGANCE

Located in Dunedin’s historic precinct, this landmark hotel blends Victorian character with contemporary comfort and offers direct access to the Grand Casino.

Book Online

Hotel Overview

info About the Hotel

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is Dunedin’s largest and most iconic hotel, housed in a beautifully restored 1883 building. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the city, the hotel combines heritage charm with modern amenities across 178 guest rooms. Guests enjoy onsite dining, a gym, conference facilities, and seamless access to the elegant Grand Casino — one of New Zealand’s finest boutique casinos. Whether visiting for leisure, business, or events, this hotel offers a refined base close to the Octagon, train station, and cultural sites.

spa Amenities

check_circle Free WiFi
check_circle Grand Casino Access (On-Site)
check_circle Two On-Site Restaurants & Bar
check_circle Fitness Centre
check_circle Conference Rooms & Meeting Spaces
check_circle 24-Hour Reception
check_circle Accessible Facilities
check_circle Secure Parking (Additional Fee)
check_circle Laundry & Dry Cleaning Service
check_circle Baggage Storage

payments Pricing

Nightly rates for Standard Rooms start from NZD $189. Superior Rooms range from NZD $210–$260. Suites are available from NZD $320, depending on seasonality and special event periods. All bookings include free WiFi and access to hotel fitness and business facilities.

Room Types

Standard Room

Comfortable and tastefully decorated, featuring either a king or twin beds, ensuite bathroom, workspace, and satellite TV.

Superior Room

Spacious and modern, these rooms include upgraded furnishings, a larger layout, and some with city or harbour views.

Suite

Elegant suite with separate lounge, generous bedroom, luxurious bath, and perfect for extended stays or special occasions.

Guest Reviews

star star star star star

"Beautiful historic building with modern comfort. The room was quiet, clean, and very spacious."

— Lynne R.

star star star star

"Fantastic location — close to everything in Dunedin. The casino next door was a bonus!"

— James M.

star star star star star

"We stayed for a weekend and loved the atmosphere. Great restaurant and friendly front desk staff."

— Alison K.

star star star star

"A great mix of character and modern amenities. Would definitely stay again when visiting Otago."

— Ben T.

Casino Overview

info Located within the historic Southern Cross Hotel building
info Over 180 electronic gaming machines
info Multiple table games including Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, and Caribbean Stud Poker
info Open daily from 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM (closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day)
info Heritage 1 status building with Victorian architectural features

Available Games

stadia_controller

Blackjack

Classic card game aiming for a hand value of 21.

casino

Roulette

Bet on numbers or colors and watch the wheel spin.

sports_esports

Baccarat

Compare hands between player and banker in this elegant game.

groups

Caribbean Stud Poker

Five-card poker game played against the house.

Casino Features

check_circle On-site Grand Bar & Restaurant serving contemporary New Zealand cuisine
check_circle Exclusive Grand Rewards loyalty program with member benefits
check_circle Event hosting facilities for corporate and private functions
check_circle Historic ambiance with modern gaming experience
check_circle Professional croupiers ensuring top-notch service

Rules & Responsibility

verified_user All guests must be aged 20 or over to enter the casino. A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver's license) is required upon entry.

support Please gamble responsibly. SkyCity encourages safe play and offers voluntary exclusion programs, support services, and trained staff to assist you.

warning For support, visit gambleaware.org or contact a local gambling help service. Remember: gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed outcome.

Casino Gallery

Dining & Amenities

restaurant Restaurant & Cuisine

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross features two distinct on-site dining venues offering both classic and contemporary cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

check_circle Portobello Restaurant – stylish setting serving à la carte breakfast and dinner with a focus on seasonal New Zealand produce
check_circle Boldini Café & Wine Bar – casual atmosphere for lunch, tapas, and boutique wines
check_circle Room Service – available for breakfast and dinner during restaurant hours

local_bar Bars & Entertainment

The hotel offers a cozy and relaxed bar setting ideal for casual drinks, as well as access to the vibrant Grand Casino bar located on-site.

music_note Boldini Wine Bar – curated wine selection and small plates
music_note Grand Bar – lounge within the Grand Casino offering cocktails and snacks
music_note Occasional live music and themed nights at casino bar

spa Amenities & Services

This heritage hotel combines modern services with traditional elegance, offering a complete range of amenities for both leisure and business guests.

check_circle Fitness centre with cardio and weight equipment
check_circle Multiple conference and event rooms with AV support
check_circle 24-hour front desk and concierge
check_circle On-site parking and secure storage (fees may apply)
check_circle Business services and guest workstations
check_circle Laundry and dry cleaning service
check_circle Accessibility rooms and lifts to all floors

redeem Current Offers

check_circle Direct booking discount: Save 10% via official website
check_circle Free Wi-Fi and fitness centre access included with all stays
check_circle Complimentary late check-out on weekends (subject to availability)

local_activity Special Packages

check_circle Heritage Stay Package: Includes breakfast and late check-out
check_circle Casino Experience: Room + $50 Grand Casino gaming credit
check_circle Couple’s Retreat: Suite stay with wine and two-course dinner at Portobello

star VIP Programs

check_circle Priority check-in for loyalty members
check_circle Complimentary parking and room upgrades for VIP guests
check_circle Welcome gift and drink on arrival for returning guests

location_on Location & Surroundings

directions How to Get There

directions_car 10-minute walk from Dunedin Railway Station
directions_car On-site secure parking available (NZD $20/day)
directions_car Nearby bus stops and airport shuttle pick-up points within 200m

explore Nearby Attractions

location_on The Octagon – city’s central plaza with shops and cafes (5 min walk)
location_on Toitū Otago Settlers Museum – heritage exhibitions (8 min walk)
location_on Dunedin Chinese Garden – tranquil retreat and cultural site (10 min walk)
location_on Grand Casino – directly accessible via internal entrance

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I modify or cancel my booking?

You can change or cancel your reservation by contacting our support team or using the platform where you made the booking. Please check your confirmation for cancellation terms and deadlines.

What are the age requirements for entering the casino?

Guests must be 20 years or older to enter the casino. A valid government-issued photo ID is required upon entry.

Is parking available at the hotel?

Yes, we offer free or secure on-site parking for guests. Please confirm availability with our team when booking.

Do you provide airport transfers?

Airport transfer can be arranged upon request. Please let us know in advance if you require this service.

Can I request a specific room view?

Yes, you may request a room with a specific view. Requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in.

Are pets allowed at the hotel?

Some rooms are pet-friendly. Please check availability and let us know in advance if you're planning to travel with a pet.

Responsible Gambling Disclaimer

warning Gambling involves financial and psychological risks. Winning is not guaranteed.

lightbulb Play responsibly. Set time and budget limits. Avoid gambling when stressed or upset. Remember: gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money.