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Square · Dunedin, Otago
The Octagon
Eight-sided square in central Dunedin, with R. A. Lawson's town hall, the public art gallery, the Regent theatre and the Anglican St Paul’s Cathedral, plus the statue of the poet Robert Burns.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About The Octagon
The Octagon is Dunedin's central square, eight-sided, laid out in the city's original plan and filled in during the 19th century over a ravine. It is where the two main city streets, George and Princes, cross, and home to some of the city's most important buildings.
On one side are the town hall, designed by architect R. A. Lawson and restored, and St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, of light stone with a high nave. Around the square are the Dunedin Public Art Gallery and the Regent theatre. In the centre, the statue of the Scottish poet Robert Burns recalls the founders' origins, and plaques in the pavement honour writers connected to the city, which was named a UNESCO City of Literature in 2014.
The square is the central meeting point, with benches, lawns and cafés around, and hosts events and markets throughout the year. It is the natural starting point for a walk to the railway station and the Toitū museum, a few minutes away.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour; longer if you visit the art gallery and the cathedral.
Best time
During the day to enter the cathedral and gallery; at night for the surrounding restaurants.
How to get there
It is located at the intersection of George Street and Princes Street, in central Dunedin.
Tip
The public art gallery usually has free entry. Look for the plaques of the Writers' Walk on the pavement around the square.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about The Octagon
What is in Dunedin’s Octagon?
The town hall, St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, the public art gallery, the Regent Theatre and the statue of Robert Burns, surrounded by cafés and restaurants.
Why does Dunedin’s square have eight sides?
It was part of the city’s original 19th-century plan for the Scottish settlement and became the centre of urban life.
Is Dunedin Public Art Gallery in the Octagon?
Yes, the Dunedin Public Art Gallery is in the Octagon, next to the cathedral and town hall.