Dunedin, New Zealand

Dunedin Railway Station

Dunedin, New Zealand’s oldest city, was established in 1848 by Scottish settlers who named the town after Edinburgh (Dunedin is its Celtic name).  Plans for the town and buildings for Dunedin were brought from Scotland in an attempt to duplicate Edinburgh.  Unfortunately, no one told the original planners that Dunedin is one of the hilliest towns on earth.  Dunedin is famous for three things, the first of which is the Dunedin Railway Station, the most photographed building in the country.  The second is Larnach Castle, the only Castle in New Zealand. Finally, there is Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world.  This road is about 400 metres long and has a 38% grade.  Baldwin Street hosts an annual race called the “gut buster”.  The record for the up-hill race is two minutes (are you listening Heather?).

Statue of Robbie Burns (and a bird)

 

Steep climbs everywhere

The Solstice was docked at Port Chalmers, about a 20 minute bus ride from Dunedin.  The port is very industrial, and logging appears to thrive here.  On the road to town the scenery was very lush and green.  In spite of the fact that it is summer here, in the southern part of New Zealand it can be chilly with the wind blowing from the open seas.  It is no wonder there are so many shops selling sumptuous woolen garments.  Unfortunately, the many yarn shops were closed because it was Sunday. 

 

 

One highlight of our Dunedin visit was to go to the Speight’s brewery, where the famous (and delicious) New Zealand beer originated.

Cheers!  and Happy New Year to All!