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Welcome to Dunedin, the world's fourth largest city – by landmass (3,314km˛)! Officially founded in 1848 by settlers from Scotland, Dunedin's history is a rich and vibrant one, due to its proximity to the goldrush in Otago that started in the 1860s. The city is home to two Kāi Tahu Runaka, Otakou and Kati Huirapa ki Puketeraki. From small beginnings Dunedin's population has grown to 118,683 (2006 census) – approximately 20% of which are students!
Dunedin has a unique combination of cultural and natural appeal. It is home to the University of Otago – New Zealand's first University and very much the driving force of the city’s economy. Dunedin has some of New Zealand's best architecture – grand cathedrals and churches built by early European settlers, the Registry building at the University and, of course, the stunning bluestone railway station. Dunedin is also incredibly rich and diverse in its natural history and wildlife. With bush-covered hills, sprawling plains and the magnificent Otago Peninsula, Dunedin is truly a beautiful city to live in and a tourism drawcard for visitors from afar.
‘It would be so easy to reel off the usual attractions – the architecture, the green spaces and gardens, the harbour and the wildlife – and of course they are important, but for me this is a city where I feel most comfortable and that can be traced back to the people, to family and friends, and the groups of organisations all of whom work so hard to make Dunedin a better place, and which I'm proud to call 'Home'.’
Mayor Peter Chin
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