Dunedin Street Art Trail

Loop

For those after a pop of colour, look for the works by Natalia Rak and Pixel Pancho. Their narratives bring a surreal, dreamlike quality to the brick walls of the Warehouse Precinct. Beyond the big names, keep an eye out for local artists whose work reflects the unique spirit of the south. These pieces often incorporate Māori motifs or local flora and fauna, grounding the global street art movement in a distinctly Kiwi context.

The trail isn't just about the paint, though. The historic architecture is a highlight in its own right. Dunedin has some of the best-preserved heritage buildings in the Southern Hemisphere. Seeing a contemporary, neon-bright mural splashed across a 19th-century grain store creates a visual contrast that you won't find anywhere else in the country. It’s a photographer’s dream, so make sure your phone is fully charged!

Getting There

The Dunedin Street Art Trail is located right in the centre of Dunedin Central. Most walkers choose to start their adventure at The Octagon, which serves as the city's heart.

• On-street parking: Metered parks are available throughout the Warehouse Precinct and central city. Keep an eye on the time limits, as some are restricted to 60 or 120 minutes.
• Multi-storey car parks: For a stress-free experience, head to one of the parking buildings near The Octagon or along Princes Street. These allow you to take your time on the trail without worrying about a parking warden.
• Public Transport: Since the trail starts and ends near The Octagon, almost every bus route in the city will drop you right at the starting line.

Before you head off, stop by the Dunedin i-Site Visitor Centre in The Octagon to pick up a free physical map. If you prefer to go digital, you can download a map online to ensure you don't miss any of the more elusive pieces tucked away in the side streets.

Wildlife Spotting

While you might be surrounded by concrete and brick, Dunedin’s "green" reputation follows you even into the city centre. Because of the city’s proximity to the lush Town Belt and the Orokonui Ecosanctuary, native birds are surprisingly common visitors to the urban canopy.

Keep your ears open for the melodic chime of the Bellbird (Korimako) or the boisterous call of the Tūī. You’ll often see Tūī darting between the ornamental trees lining the streets, especially when the kōwhai are in bloom. Look up towards the ledges of the heritage buildings, and you might spot a Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon) perched precariously on a stone gargoyle—their iridescent green feathers look spectacular against the grey basalt.

Common urban residents like the Fantail (Pīwakawaka) and Silvereye (Tauhou) are everywhere, flitting through the smaller gardens and alleyways. If you’re walking in the early morning or late afternoon, the bird song can be quite intense, providing a beautiful natural soundtrack to the urban art.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Dunedin Street Art Trail is a year-round attraction, but each season brings a different vibe to the walk:

• Spring & Summer: These are arguably the best times to go. The weather is generally milder, and the bright, high-overhead sun makes the colours of the murals truly pop. The city feels alive, with people dining alfresco and a real buzz in the air.
• Autumn: Dunedin is famous for its deciduous trees. Walking the trail with a backdrop of fiery oranges and yellows is stunning, and the crisper air makes the 4km walk feel effortless.
• Winter: Don't write off a winter stroll! Dunedin’s winter sun is low and golden, which can create some incredible shadows and lighting for photography. Just wrap up warm—the "Dunedin Tuxedo" (a quality puffer jacket) is highly recommended.

• Start Time: Aim to start mid-morning. This allows the sun to clear the tall buildings, illuminating the murals in the narrower lanes.
• What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Even though it's a city walk, 4km on concrete can be tough on the feet. Bring a light waterproof jacket—Dunedin weather is famously fickle and can change in minutes.
• Sun Protection: Even on a cloudy day, the New Zealand sun is fierce. Wear sunscreen, especially if you’re spending two hours wandering the streets.
• Hydration: There are plenty of places to buy a drink, but it’s always a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle.

Local & Regional Context

Dunedin’s identity is deeply rooted in its history as a place of wealth and creativity. Long before the first European settlers arrived, the area was known to Māori as Ōtepoti. It was a site of seasonal camps and a gateway to the resources of the Otago harbour and hinterland.

In the mid-to-late 1800s, the Otago Gold Rush transformed Dunedin into the wealthiest city in New Zealand. This wealth was poured into the magnificent stone buildings you see today. However, as the economic centre of the country shifted north, many of these buildings in the Warehouse Precinct fell into disrepair.

The Street Art Trail is a key part of the city’s "urban regeneration." By inviting world-class artists to use these walls as canvases, Dunedin has breathed new life into its historic bones. This commitment to the arts is why Dunedin was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Literature, and the street art trail is a visual extension of that same creative spirit. It’s a testament to a city that respects its past but isn't afraid to paint over it with something bold and new.

After the Walk

Once you’ve completed the loop and your camera roll is full, you’ll be in the perfect position to refuel. Dunedin’s cafe culture is legendary, and several of the city’s best spots are located right on or near the trail.

• Vanguard Specialty Coffee: Located just 0.5km from the main trail, this is a mecca for coffee purists. It’s a bright, modern space where you can sit and reflect on the art you’ve just seen (often with a view of a mural right outside the window).
• Vogel Street Kitchen: This is a local institution. Housed in a beautifully restored warehouse, it offers incredible wood-fired pizzas and hearty breakfasts. It perfectly captures the "industrial-chic" vibe of the trail.
• Amigos: If you’ve worked up a hunger, head here for some of the best Mexican food in the south. It’s central, lively, and great for a post-walk lunch.
• Cricketers Pub: For those who prefer a classic pint and some comfort food, this British-style pub is just a short stroll away. Their fish and chips are a local favourite.
• Prohibition Dunedin: This gastropub is fantastic if you have your dog with you. It’s very dog-friendly and has a cool, artist-inspired interior that fits the day's theme perfectly.

Whether you're a local rediscovering your backyard or a tourist seeing the city for the first time, the Dunedin Street Art Trail is an accessible, engaging, and utterly unique way to experience the soul of Ōtepoti.

300m away

A British-style pub and restaurant offering classic comfort food like Fish & Chips, Shepherd's Pie, and a good selection of craft beers, popular with locals and tourists alike.