Dunedin Railway Station is a New Zealand architectural landmark. Learn about its Flemish Renaissance style, visitor access, and history.
Dunedin Railway Station is one of New Zealand’s best-known landmarks, famous for its ornate architecture and historic charm. Opened in 1906, the station quickly became a symbol of the city’s prosperity during the gold rush era. Today, it remains a popular attraction for visitors to Dunedin on the South Island, whether or not they plan to travel by train.
A masterpiece of Edwardian design
Designed by architect George Troup, the building is a striking example of Edwardian Baroque architecture. The use of dark basalt with lighter Oamaru stone gives the station its distinctive patterned façade, while the clock tower adds a commanding presence. The interior is just as impressive, featuring mosaic floors, stained glass windows, and detailed ironwork. It is often referred to as the “Gingerbread House” because of its elaborate style.
A hub for heritage train journeys
While Dunedin Railway Station no longer handles the volume of passenger services it once did, it is still the starting point for heritage train journeys. The Taieri Gorge Railway, now operated by Dunedin Railways, departs from here and takes passengers on a scenic ride through dramatic landscapes, viaducts, and tunnels. Seasonal tourist trains to other destinations also run from the station.
Why book the Taieri Gorge Railway from Dunedin?
- 🚂 Enjoy a scenic 5.5-hour round-trip rail journey from Dunedin to Pukerangi
- 🌉 Traverse hand-carved tunnels and cross 12 historic viaducts, including the impressive Wingatui Viaduct
- 🌄 Experience panoramic views of the Taieri River Gorge, steep cliffs, and expansive countryside
- 🎟 Travel in restored vintage carriages with onboard commentary and a café for refreshments
- 📸 Ideal for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and railway history buffs
A centre for culture and events
Beyond trains, the station has become a cultural hub. The former booking hall now houses the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame and the Otago Art Society. Outside, the landscaped gardens provide a popular backdrop for photographs, especially during spring when the flowers are in full bloom. The station is also a venue for Dunedin’s annual fashion show, where models famously walk along the main platform.
Why it’s worth visiting
Even if you are not catching a train, Dunedin Railway Station is worth a stop. The architecture alone makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the country, and the combination of history, design, and cultural activity ensures there is always something to see. It is centrally located, making it easy to include in a walking tour of the city.
Entrance fees for Dunedin Railway Station
The Dunedin Railway Station building itself is open to the public and serves as a major architectural landmark. There is no fee to enter the station’s grand hall and admire the interior details. Fees apply only to the scenic rail journeys that depart from the platforms.
| Ticket type | Price (NZD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dunedin Railway Station building access | Free | Access to the main booking hall and its prominent features, such as the mosaic floor. |
| Taieri Gorge Train (Adult) | From $159.00 | Scenic return journey lasting approximately six hours. Prices vary based on class and schedule. |
| Taieri Gorge Train (Child 5–15) | From $49.00 | A reduced rate for children accompanying an adult on the scenic train trip. |
| Taieri Gorge Train (Infant 0–4) | Free | Complimentary ticket required to reserve a spot for the scenic rail journey. |
Nearby attractions to Dunedin Railway Station
The station is a central hub for various activities and is located close to other significant Dunedin sites.
- Otago Farmers Market: The car park adjacent to the station transforms every Saturday morning into one of the city’s most popular markets, offering local produce and artisan goods.
- Toitū Otago Settlers Museum: A short walk from the station, this museum details the history of Dunedin and the Otago region.
- Dunedin Chinese Garden: This authentic and tranquil garden is located a short distance from the railway station and offers a retreat from the city’s main streets.
- New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame and Otago Art Society: These two attractions are housed within the railway station building itself, utilising the historic structure’s upper floors and wings.
- Speight’s Brewery: The historic brewery, which offers guided tours and a restaurant, is easily accessible from the station.
FAQ: Visitor questions about Dunedin Railway Station
Guidance on visiting this historic New Zealand transport landmark.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the primary feature of the station? | The station, designed by George Troup, is renowned for its elaborate Flemish Renaissance architecture and its Booking Hall, which features a vast mosaic floor made of nearly 750,000 pieces of Royal Doulton porcelain. |
| What is the main train trip from Dunedin Railway Station? | The main passenger service is the Taieri Gorge Scenic Railway Journey, which travels through the scenic Taieri Gorge and lasts approximately five to six hours (return trip). |
| Can I take photographs inside the station? | Yes, photography is permitted and encouraged throughout the building, allowing visitors to capture the elaborate architecture and detailing. |
| Are there guided tours of the station building? | While most visits are self-guided, dedicated historical and architectural tours of the station building are available, providing insight into its construction and role in New Zealand’s history. |
Other top attractions around Dunedin include Larnach Castle, the Taiaroa Headland and the Orokonui Ecosanctuary.
More New Zealand South Island travel
Other New Zealand South Island stories on Planet Whitley include:
- Braving sea-sickness on the Stewart Island ferry.
- Why you shouldn’t do a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown.
- Six reasons to include Queenstown in your New Zealand travel itinerary.
- Behind the scenes at the Mount John Observatory in Lake Tekapo.
- What to do on the Christchurch to Oamaru drive before seeing Oamaru’s penguin colony.
