The Heart of Dunedin: The Octagon
Discover Dunedin's vibrant cultural heart at The Octagon, where history, dining, and art converge in a picturesque plaza.
The Octagon in Dunedin is a vibrant plaza at the city's core, where culture, dining, and history converge beautifully. Visitors can explore stunning architecture, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
A brief summary to The Octagon
- Dunedin, Central Dunedin, NZ
Local tips
- Visit during the weekend to experience local markets and events happening in the plaza.
- Grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafes and enjoy it while relaxing in the sun at The Octagon.
- Check out the various art installations and sculptures scattered around the plaza for a cultural experience.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn about the historical significance of the buildings surrounding The Octagon.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Dunedin Railway Station, exit the station and head west on Anzac Avenue. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with St Andrew Street. Turn left onto St Andrew Street and follow it as it curves to the right, becoming Moray Place. Continue straight until you reach The Octagon, which will be on your left.
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Walking
From the Dunedin Public Library, exit the library and head south on Moray Place. Continue straight for several blocks, passing a few shops and cafes. The Octagon will appear ahead as you approach the intersection with George Street. It is a large open square, and you can enter from either side.
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Public Transport
If you are near the Dunedin City Centre, you can catch a bus from one of the local bus stops. Take any bus that goes towards the city centre and get off at the stop closest to The Octagon. Once you disembark, walk a short distance towards the large square that is The Octagon. The bus routes are frequent and well-marked.
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Walking
If you are coming from the University of Otago, exit the campus and head down Union Street East towards the city. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with George Street. Turn right onto George Street and walk a few blocks until you see The Octagon on your left. It’s a central gathering space surrounded by various shops and restaurants.
Discover more about The Octagon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Octagon Reserve
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All In Dunedin - Nature and City Tours
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Robert Burns Statue
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City Walks
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The Octagon Carriageway
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Dunedin Town Hall
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First Church Of Otago
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Old Colonial Garrison HQ
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Imperial Buildings
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Regus - Dunedin, 218 George Street
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Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga
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Acquisitions - Head Office
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JA 1274 Steam Train
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Exchange Plaza
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Dunedin Railway Station
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Unmissable attractions to see
Dunedin Public Art Gallery
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Dunedin Literary Walking Tours
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St Paul's Cathedral
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Dunedin City Library
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Hair Raiser Tours
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Former Dunedin Police Station & Prison
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Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
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Queens Garden
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Speight's Brewery
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Taieri Gorge Railway
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Otago Art Society
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Dunedin Railways
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New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame
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Lan Yuan, Dunedin Chinese Garden
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Bond st mural
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Essential places to dine
Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant
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Vault 21
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Prohibition Smokehouse
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The Jitsu
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Rustic Restaurant & Bar
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Amigos Dunedin
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Two Chefs Bistro
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The Wayfarer
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Jizo Japanese Restaurant
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Etrusco at the Savoy
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Del Sol
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Potpourri Vegetarian Cafe
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The Black Dog Kitchen & Bar
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Alley Cantina
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Magic Moments Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
New Zealand Gift Shop
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Little Rock Shop
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The Scottish Shop
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The Outpost Dunedin
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Jorjarose Dunedin
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Design Withdrawals
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Two Squirrels Vintage Emporium
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Collectibles Revamped
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Farmers Dunedin
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Hard To Find Secondhand Bookshop Dunedin
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Finders Keepers Boutique Dunedin
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Taste Merchants Dunedin
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Shop on Carroll
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Paint the Town Red
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Wall Street Mall
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Craic Irish Tavern
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Brew Bar
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Mr Fox Tapas Lounge Bar
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Dunedin Social Club
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Eleven Bar & Club
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Craft Bar & kitchen
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Carousel Lounge Bar
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Albar
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Pequeno Wine & Cocktail
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Toast Bar
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Woof!
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Indigo Room
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The Duke of Wellington
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Zanzibar
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The Bog
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Catacombs Nightclub
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Suburbia Eatery & Nightlife
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bar
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XYZ Bar Dunedin
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Commerce Club
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Vivace Karaoke Bar & Viva Fried Chicken
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Stilettos Revue Bar
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The Dunedin Club
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FoxCo. Dunedin Event Photography
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