[1][3][4] The head, thorax and markings on the elytra are dark brownish, though a greenish or bronze iridescence can also be seen on these parts of the body.

[1] The middle band also nearly reaches or extends slightly past the base of the apical lunule.

[1] The darker markings on the elytra are also adorned with many small green speckles and punctures, and are moderately shiny.

[6][7][8][2][3] It is observed most frequently in Central Otago and adjacent locations, the Mackenzie Basin, and other areas of inland Canterbury.

[7][8][9] Neocicindela dunedensis is generally an inhabitant of dry habitat types, and can be considered xeriphilous.

[6][2] N. dunedensis can be found living in various dry exposed and semi-vegetated habitats, such as dry river flats, open areas of uncultivated herbaceous ground cover, open spaces between native shrubs, glacial Loess, edges of dirt roads and paths, eroded cliffs and hillsides, and possibly even undisturbed gardens within its geographical range.

[6] As is the case with other members of its genus, Neocicindela dunedensis is a swift predator of other small insects, pursuing their prey by running them down, or occasionally by brief yet fast flights.

[12][13][14] The first body segment of the larva is hardened, camouflaged, and shaped in such a way that it acts to block the burrow entrance.

[6] In general this species is active during the warmer months, and have been observed and collected from November through to March.

[5][17] Neocicindela dunedensis was first described by Larporte de Castelnau in 1867, with the type locality possibly being Dunedin.