Olveston
- Address: 42 Royal Terrace, North Dunedin , Dunedin
- Hours: Open Daily, Closed Christmas
- Admission: Free
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Monument - Historical
The Olveston House is a must-see sight in Dunedin, and the 1-hour tours are an incredible walk through this decadent, ornate, and elegant mansion. Built in the Jacobian tradition between 1904 and 1906, the 35-room house sits on an acre of beautiful gardens.
The house is maintained as it was originally decorated, with a unique and timeless beauty. The original owner, David Theomin, was a prolific traveler, and collected items from all over the world to decorate his house with, including French, Chinese, and Japanese treasures.
On your stroll through the house, pay close attention the the plethora of paintings displaying various pictures of contemporary colonial life in New Zealand, and when outside in the gardens, be sure to get a look at the automobile used by the Theomin family at the time of construction.
At the end of your tour, stop by the gift shop and peruse the various souvenirs to remember your time at Olveston.
Latest Reviews
Review by Karen B, April 2013
Doing what: Dunedin Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing with Olveston House Tour
We had an excellent tour guide who has lived in Dunedin for years. We also enjoyed a semi- privated tour of the Olveston House. For the value, you get tour....
Review by Marty P, April 2013
Doing what: Dunedin Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing with Olveston House Tour
Tour was great, the guide was great, and Olveston House was terrific. We're so glad that we booked this excursion!
Review by Diana C, March 2013
Doing what: Dunedin Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing with Olveston House Tour
Very nice and knowledgable guide on the sightseeing part of the trip. We were dropped off at the house tour though and later picked up by the bus driver. We could have skipped the house tour.
Located in the inner city of Dunedin, Olveston can easily be walked to from the city center. For car access, parking permits are available at reception, so be sure to check in a few minutes early to allow for parking.
While children are allowed on the tours, the house is filled with breakables, so parents should be advised to keep a close eye on their little ones. Also, there is no stroller access in the house, so small children may have some difficulty. Reservations are essential for entrance.
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