Dunedin Historic Architecture

You don't need to know your spires from your towers to be impressed by the grand buildings of Dunedin. Architects and amateurs alike will be left in total awe of the 'Victorian City of New Zealand'.

When we say that Dunedin is one of New Zealand's heritage treasures, we really mean it. If it's not enough that it's home to the country's only castle-yes, you heard us, an actual castle-it also has a beautifully restored railway station that is over 100 years old. Add to that, grand mansions and some of the most impressive Edwardian and Victorian architecture, not just in the South Island but in the Southern Hemisphere, and you'll start to get the picture.

You won't have to look hard to find historic architecture in Dunedin. For the best sightseeing experience just amble around the pretty city, where each church, law court, bank, prison and school is as impressive as the next. Don't forget the town hall.

Here are some of the best things to do in Dunedin to get to know the city's jaw-dropping style.

Image: Dunedin NZ

Discover Larnach Castle

  • New Zealand's only castle has nothing to do with the Lord of the Rings and everything to do with Gothic Revival architecture and historic intrigue.
  • Pinkies up and posh accents at the ready...it's time for a grand high tea served in the ballroom or gardens. The scones are to die for, dahling.
  • Leave time to explore the seven acres of manicured gardens with deliciously tempting names such as the Lost Rock Garden, the Serpentine Walk and the Rain Forest.

Image: Dunedin NZ

Explore Dunedin Railway Station

  • Start your visit with the compulsory photo in front of one of New Zealand's most photographed buildings, which resembles a gingerbread house. This is Instagram gold.
  • Stop in the middle of the booking hall and look at your feet. You'll be standing on 750,000 tiles of Royal Doulton porcelain creating a vast, ornate mosaic.
  • Head off on the excellent tourist train excursion, which departs from the station, or stay put and enjoy the restaurant and art gallery.

Image: Tourism Media

See More Historic Architecture

  • Take a peek back in time to see how the other half lived in the early 20th century at the magnificent Olveston Historic Home, perhaps the country's finest mansion.
  • See how old and new have combined at the University of Otago, New Zealand's first university. Keep an eye out for the unique clock tower.
  • Set off on a guided walking tour of Dunedin's historic architecture. You'll see the Dunedin Prison, the Bank of New Zealand and the First Church of Otago.

Created in partnership with Enterprise Dunedin