Begin your tour in the Octagon, the heart of Dunedin. Learn about the amazing buildings that survive in the center of town. Next, head to the Dunedin Railway Station, the second most photographed building in the southern hemisphere, second only to the Sydney Opera House. Step inside the foyer of the station with its Royal Doulton tiled walls and mosaic floor made with approximately half a million pieces.
Pass by the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum and see Josephine, the first locomotive in Otago. Hear its story, how it came here, how it was nearly lost to history, and how it survived.
At Queens Gardens, hear the tale of the first Scottish settlers, how they were welcomed by the Kai Tahu Maori, how they dealt with rain and mud, and why it was all worthwhile. In the Exchange area, see the winged monkeys of the Cargill memorial and other fanciful shapes carved in stone.
Hear the stories of the banks in the area and the prominent men who did such business. See where the old Royal Arcade once stood and learn about the tragic Loft family incident.
Walk past Speights or maybe stop here for a drink. If you choose to carry on, the tour ends in the Octagon past the building where the New Zealand national anthem was sung for the first time.
