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Olveston Historic Home Guided Tour: Discover New Zealand's Early 20th Century Lifestyle
4.8
137 Ratings
Dunedin
Immerse yourself in the early 20th century lifestyle at Olveston Historic Home in Dunedin. Explore the stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history on a guided tour.
Duration:
1 hour
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
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Olveston Historic Home - All tours are guided by our professional staff to give you the ultimate time capsule experience. You will learn about how a wealthy merchant family lived in the early 1900’s in Otago’s major town, Dunedin, built on gold. Olveston has all its original contents with over 120 art works.
After your tour of over 13 spectacular rooms enjoy, in your own time, Olveston’s one acre garden which is a Garden of National Significance.
Our well stocked gift shop offers many items made locally.
What's Included
- Expert local guide included
What's Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Additional Information
Experience the fine structure, verdant landscapes, and ornate interior of the sophisticated Olveston Historic Home on a 1-hour guided exploration of this must-visit Dunedin site. You also have the opportunity to saunter through the picturesque gardens while admiring cityscapes and Otago Harbour vistas. As you journey through the house, your well-informed guide will share enlightening narratives about the architecture, artwork and household items, as well as the lineage who constructed the home. This tour provides you insights into New Zealand’s way of living during the early 1900s and the history of one of Dunedin’s notable families.
- To prevent damaging the wooden floors and original floorcoverings, visitors are asked to refrain from wearing stiletto heel shoes
- Small-group tour with a maximum of 15 participants per tour
- No health restrictions
Location
42 Royal Terrace
Royal Terrace
At Olveston reception
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.8
(137 Ratings)
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Rachael
Jun 8, 2024
The charm of a stately home right here in NZ! - I’ve done quite a few tours of stately homes in the UK and this one honestly tops them. Our guide, Vivian, was so knowledgeable and had some wonderful stories that brought the home to life. I would highly recommend a visit if you’re in Dunedin.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Barryg1503
Jun 3, 2024
Olveston is not simply just another historic home - it is THE historic home. - May 30th - an amazing home and an incredible guide Chris who gave a detailed commentary as we moved from room to room and Chris answered all questions asked of her. So much of modern technology has been simply adapted and updated from those early times. Well worth the visit - would most likely go again - it is essential to get gthe guided tour. Thanks Olveston.
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Edith_brinck
May 31, 2024
A journey back in time - A visit to the Olveston House is more than worthwhile. It is a journey back in time and you feel like you are in the early 1900s. All the furniture, objects, crockery and so on are original. The house was equipped with the most modern gadgets for that time, such as central heating throughout the house, electricity and much more.
The guide (a lady) told us a lot about the house and its inhabitants and also about the objects. The interior is beautiful and no expense has been spared and it clearly shows. We enjoyed the beautiful house and the stories/explanations from the enthusiastic guide. We can highly recommend a visit.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jane3451
May 25, 2024
Worth the visit - A beautiful house that is wonderfully preserved. Diverse art collections. Very knowledgeable guide. Professional staff.
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Karren61
May 13, 2024
Don’t miss out on this - I never knew this existed. What an amazing house to visit, truly wonderful and a wonderful guided tour. To see such treasures as they were left was truly amazing
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P3153kbalinak
May 7, 2024
Historic Goldmine - The place was a gold mine of historical artifacts. Everything was beautifully preserved and the tour guide was witty and fun!
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Elainek1505
Apr 28, 2024
A journey back in time. A home of great opulence. - Words can hardly describe the perfect preservation and amazing treasures of this home. Well worth the visit. Highly recommend. Has to be seen to appreciate. Amazing and knowledgeable guide. Fascinating history.
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Margotn110
Apr 14, 2024
Essential for anyone who has a penchant for history - Visiting Olveston House is essential for anyone eager to immerse themselves in a slice of history. As soon as I entered, I felt like I had stepped back in time to an era where etiquette and manners were pivotal. The setting was so authentic, I almost felt underdressed. Our tour guide, Kevin, was a wealth of knowledge. Feel free to ask him anything about the house, its interiors, or the family who built and lived there; he has all the answers. Also, don’t forget to pick up one of the beautiful blue and white, kitchen-themed tea towels from the gift shop before you leave.
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Trevorh1848
Apr 13, 2024
This is somehing you cannot miss when you are in Dunedin. - Could wish for no more- the tour guide was excellent, the house was incredible. And the greenhouse to the side of the main house was worth viewing- and for those who enjoy vintage cars the old Fiat car- I think 1912- is truly incredible.
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Katep1954
Mar 29, 2024
Wonderful collection of art and artefacts. - A very interesting tour, particularly if you are interested in art and a huge selection of amazing artefacts from around the turn of the last century. A very knowledgeable guide took the tour and was full of information. A beautiful old house perfectly preserved.
Review provided by Tripadvisor