Dunedin's street art scene began in earnest in the 2010s, when the city invited artists to paint large works on buildings across the central area. The result is a collection of murals that now rivals those of much larger cities, and the trail has become one of the best free things to do. The pieces range from huge photorealistic portraits and wildlife images to abstract designs, surreal monochrome drawings and works that draw on local history and culture. Many are on the walls of old warehouses and heritage buildings, so the contrast between the Victorian architecture and the vivid paint is part of the charm. There are works by international names as well as New Zealand artists, and new pieces appear regularly, so the trail changes from visit to visit. Walking the route takes you through the lower Stuart Street area, the Warehouse Precinct, Vogel Street and the laneways near the Octagon, so you also see parts of the city you might otherwise miss. A map is available from the tourism website and the visitor centre, and there are guided tours as well as self-guided options. Because the trail is outdoors and free, you can come and go as you please.
How to visit
Start at the Octagon or the visitor centre and follow the map, walking through the central city. The route is mostly flat and can be done in an hour or two, depending on how often you stop. There is no admission charge, so all you need is a map and comfortable shoes. Many works are visible from the street, but a few are tucked into laneways, so take your time looking around.
What to expect
Murals are scattered rather than concentrated in one place, so you will do a fair amount of walking and some doubling back. Some pieces are enormous and best viewed from a distance, while others reward a closer look. Weather matters, as the sun can wash out photographs, and rain makes pavements slippery. The trail also passes cafes, galleries and shops, so it is easy to break the walk with a coffee or lunch. Pieces are sometimes painted over or changed, so not every mural on an old map will still be there.
Making the most of it
Take your phone for photographs and a power bank, as you will use it for maps. The morning light is good for many of the larger walls. If you want to learn the stories behind the works, join a guided tour or download an audio guide. Pair the trail with a visit to the Dunedin Public Art Gallery or the Otago Museum for a full culture day. Be respectful of the artwork and avoid blocking driveways or traffic when taking photos.
Good to know
Street art is part of a broader creative culture in Dunedin, a city with a UNESCO City of Literature title, a university and a thriving music scene. The murals sit alongside galleries, studios and independent shops, particularly in the warehouse and Vogel Street areas. The festival that launched the trail has brought in artists from many countries, and the city has continued to commission new works.
If you enjoy photography, a walk at golden hour can give striking results. Families can turn the trail into a game by spotting animals, faces and hidden details in each mural.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided walk past large murals painted on buildings across the city centre.
Best time
Mornings or golden hour for photography, and dry days for comfortable walking.
How long
1-2 hours
Tips
Pick up or download a map, wear comfortable shoes and allow time to double back.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers, photographers and anyone who likes art outside galleries.
- Families
- A fun treasure-hunt style walk for children of all ages.
- Couples
- A leisurely stroll with plenty of photo stops and cafes along the way.
- Pair with
- The Dunedin Public Art Gallery, a cafe stop or the food walking tour.
- Time needed
- 1-2 hours
Good questions
Is the street art trail free?+
Yes, the murals are on public streets and can be viewed free of charge.
How long does the trail take?+
Plan on one to two hours, depending on how often you stop.
Where do I get a map?+
Maps are available from the tourism website and the visitor centre.
Are the murals permanent?+
Some are long-lived, but others are painted over or replaced, so the trail changes.
Can I take a guided tour?+
Yes, guided options exist alongside the self-guided map.