Overview
Olveston Historic Home is a beautiful Edwardian villa built in 1906, showcasing the lifestyle of the wealthy in early 20th century Dunedin. The home is filled with original furnishings, artwork, and antiques, providing a glimpse into the past.
Olveston was the family home of the Theomin family and is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture and design. It offers insights into the social and cultural history of Dunedin.
Location
Address
42 Royal Terrace, Dunedin North, Dunedin, Otago
Neighborhood: Dunedin North
Coordinates
-45.877300, 170.519500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring blooms in the garden
- • beautiful photography opportunities
summer
warm to hot
- • extended opening hours
- • outdoor events
autumn
cool to mild
- • autumn colors in the garden
- • cozy indoor exhibits
winter
cold to cool
- • winter holiday lights
- • festive decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for guided tours
- Bring ID for ticket discounts
- Check weather for outdoor activities
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate
- • stairs and uneven surfaces in the house
Medical facilities: first aid kit available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards, EFTPOS
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes for walking, no specific requirements, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least a week in advance for guided tours
- • official website or phone
- • 48 hours in advance for refund
- • available with pre-booked tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Olveston Historic Home
Size: 25 MB
Features: Map of the house and gardens, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Garden areas
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Dunedin International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1.5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a piece of Dunedin's history, beautifully preserved and a great place to learn about the past
Historical Significance: Olveston was home to the Theomin family and is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture and design. It offers insights into the social and cultural history of Dunedin.
Insider Tips
- Free entry for locals on certain days
- Best food and coffee at the cafe across the street
- Evening tours offer a unique and atmospheric experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local cafe across the street
- • Ask for guide Sarah, she knows all the stories
- • Visit the nearby botanic gardens
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Māori, French, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance with the grand staircase
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the staircase
Result: Grand and impressive shot of the entrance
The garden with the fountain
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Wide angle to capture the whole garden
Result: Beautiful and serene garden shot
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Dunedin Botanic Gardens
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Park
First Church of Otago
Distance: 500m
Walking: 6 min
Type: Historic Site
Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
Distance: 1.2 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a guided tour for the full experience"
- "Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds"
- "Don't miss the garden, it's beautiful"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
5
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
$25