The Octagon

The Octagon is the city center of Dunedin, located in the South Island of New Zealand. It’s an eight-sided plaza with a circular one-way carriageway, bisected by the city’s main street1. The Octagon is also the central terminus of two other main thoroughfares. This area is predominantly a pedestrian reserve, with grass and paved features, and is surmounted by a statue of the Scottish poet Robert Burns1. Several of Dunedin’s significant buildings and institutions adjoin the plaza, which is also a major hub for public transport in Dunedin, primarily taxi services. The Octagon was substantially renovated during the 1980s, and is now a center of the city’s cafe culture, with many al fresco dining areas. It is also the location for the city’s annual New Year’s Eve celebrations.

First Church of Otago

The First Church of Otago is a significant historical site in Dunedin, New Zealand. It was designed by architect R.A. Lawson and opened on November 23, 1873, just 25 years after the first settlers arrived in Dunedin. You will see the inside of the church, and learn about this history about this church as well.