Dunedin is one of the Southern Hemisphere's best-preserved Edwardian and Victorian cities, full of gothic-style architecture and heritage attractions.
Dunedin’s city centre has heritage buildings at almost every turn. Within a few blocks of the Octagon are a number of particularly significant architectural gems, including the Municipal Chambers, St Paul’s Cathedral, First Church, the Dunedin Courthouse and Dunedin Railway Station.
Pockets of heritage can be found all over the city, from the Edwardian Winter Garden at the Dunedin Botanic Gardens to the Gasworks Museum in South Dunedin.
Tūhura at Otago Museum is Aotearoa’s biggest science centre, and the only bicultural science centre in the world. Tūhura, meaning to discover tells the Kai Tahu creation story, integrating art with science and showing how science helps us understand our amazing world. Spend all day with hands-on interactives that awaken wonder and curiosity. Try your hand at aerodynamics, animation or bending light, experiment with erosion and earthquakes, see if you can out-cycle our skeleton or experience the 3-story DNA-inspired slide…if you dare! Or, take a stroll through the Tropical Forest - the hottest place in Dunedin – amongst exotic butterflies, across a swinging sky bridge or under its indoor waterfall.
Larnach Castle, built in 1871, is a must-see for any Dunedin visitor. Sitting high up on the Otago Peninsula commanding views of the harbour and city beyond, the beautifully restored castle and extensive gardens are an impressive sight. Wander the halls and mysterious inner havens, take high tea in the ballroom or follow the winding staircase to the turret for a 360 outlook of the Otago Peninsula.
Set on an inner-city hill, Olveston Historic Home(opens in new window) is like a time capsule of early 1900s Dunedin. The fine 35-room Edwardian house is full of treasures and artifacts from across the world, and provides a fascinating insight into the lives a of wealthy merchant family and their serving staff.
Speight’s Brewery was one of New Zealand’s first and today offers tours and tastings of its signature range at the original site. Take a moment to sample the fresh spring water from the tap in the brewery wall or enjoy a hearty meal at the Speights Ale House built in 1876.
To truly experience the city's heritage try taking a guided walking tour with City Walks.
