City Sights & Olveston Historic House
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Port
Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
City Tour,12
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$120
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
If you're interested in architecture, don't miss this memorable tour highlighting the major landmarks of Dunedin. You'll be amazed by stone buildings in Victorian and Edwardian style, built at a time when Dunedin was New Zealand's most prosperous city.
Although Dunedin's times of rapid growth and great wealth are now firmly in the past, they have left a legacy of elaborate architecture. Along the way, watch for the ornate stonework of Otago University -- New Zealand's earliest college.At Dunedin's gorgeous Edwardian-era railway station, you'll have a chance to snap some photos. Don't miss the stunning Otago bluestone on the outside of the building and the custom-designed New Zealand Railways mosaic tiles in the main lobby. The station -- a marvelous construction of iron latticework -- is emblazoned with heraldic lions and is truly a work of art.
You'll also have a chance to admire the First Church of Otago, Municipal Chambers, the Law Courts, the brick Victorian police station, several former bank buildings, and the Otago Museum as you drive past.
The highlight of your tour is a visit to Olveston. This is a magnificent Edwardian-era mansion built in Jacobean style. Offering you a glimpse at the life of a prosperous local merchant at the turn of the 20th century, this house is a treasure trove of the gleaming antique furniture, silverware, priceless porcelain, paintings, ivory and crystal collections of a man who traveled the world in search of beauty.
Enjoy a ride along Queen's Drive, with its delightful panoramic view of the city from the hills.
Please note:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, gravel, grass, and many steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes.