The Octagon, Dunedin
The Octagon is the central hub of Dunedin, and serves as both a geographic and cultural heart of the city. Designed as an eight-sided plaza, it forms the core of the city鈥檚 layout and is surrounded by key civic buildings, historic landmarks, cafes, and public spaces. Established in the mid-19th century, The Octagon was inspired by Edinburgh鈥檚 city plan, reflecting Dunedin鈥檚 Scottish heritage. Today, it remains a lively gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
One of the most recognizable landmarks here is St. Paul鈥檚 Cathedral, whose stone fa莽ade and soaring spire dominate one side of the plaza. Adjacent to it stands the Dunedin Town Hall and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, offering visitors easy access to cultural and civic institutions. The plaza also features statues and monuments, including a prominent sculpture of the poet Robert Burns, symbolizing the city鈥檚 literary roots and Scottish ties. The area is pedestrian-friendly, inviting leisurely strolls and impromptu performances from local artists.
The Octagon serves as a focal point for festivals, street markets, and public celebrations throughout the year. During events like the Dunedin Fringe Festival or the iD Dunedin Fashion Week, the space is transformed into a bustling open-air venue. Its central location makes it a natural meeting point, whether for a coffee with friends or the starting point for exploring nearby attractions such as the Dunedin Railway Station or the historic Princes Street.
One of the most recognizable landmarks here is St. Paul鈥檚 Cathedral, whose stone fa莽ade and soaring spire dominate one side of the plaza. Adjacent to it stands the Dunedin Town Hall and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, offering visitors easy access to cultural and civic institutions. The plaza also features statues and monuments, including a prominent sculpture of the poet Robert Burns, symbolizing the city鈥檚 literary roots and Scottish ties. The area is pedestrian-friendly, inviting leisurely strolls and impromptu performances from local artists.
The Octagon serves as a focal point for festivals, street markets, and public celebrations throughout the year. During events like the Dunedin Fringe Festival or the iD Dunedin Fashion Week, the space is transformed into a bustling open-air venue. Its central location makes it a natural meeting point, whether for a coffee with friends or the starting point for exploring nearby attractions such as the Dunedin Railway Station or the historic Princes Street.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Dunedin. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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The Octagon on Map
Sight Name: The Octagon
Sight Location: Dunedin, New Zealand (See walking tours in Dunedin)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Dunedin, New Zealand (See walking tours in Dunedin)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Dunedin, New Zealand
Create Your Own Walk in Dunedin
Creating your own self-guided walk in Dunedin is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
University of Otago Historical Buildings Walk
The University of Otago campus in Dunedin is renowned for its collection of historic buildings that showcase a rich blend of architectural styles, reflecting the institution鈥檚 long academic legacy since its founding in 1869. At its heart lies the iconic Clocktower Building, a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture completed in the 1870s, built from locally sourced dark basalt and Oamaru... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Dunedin Introduction Walking Tour
Dunedin, located on New Zealand鈥檚 South Island, is a city where Scottish heritage meets dramatic natural landscapes. Known for its rich academic, architectural, and cultural legacy, the city is home to the University of Otago鈥攖he country鈥檚 oldest university鈥攁nd a vibrant student population that infuses the area with energy. Visitors will notice the city鈥檚 distinctive 19th-century... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles