Last updated June 2026
Discover the Dunedin Street Art Trail, a self-guided exploration of more than 50 commissioned murals by local and international artists across central Dunedin. The trail weaves through historic laneways and heritage precincts, turning the city into an open-air gallery that reflects Ōtepoti’s cultural stories and creative spirit. It began with the Dunedin Street Art Festival in 2014 and has grown steadily with new works appearing in key areas. Visitors can follow the route on foot, pausing at cafes and shops along the way, or join a guided walking tour that incorporates street art highlights. A free map is available from the Dunedin i-SITE Visitor Centre to help plan the experience.
Practical Information
| Location | Central Dunedin laneways and streets including the Octagon, Bath Street, Moray Place, Bond Street, Rattray Street and Warehouse Precinct |
| Access | Self-guided walking trail; free and open to the public |
| Best explored | On foot; sections can be done as loops or combined with other city sights |
| Map and resources | Free printed map at Dunedin i-SITE Visitor Centre; interactive map online |
| Guided options | Guided city walking tours include street art elements |
| Photography | Encouraged; respect artworks and private property |
| Family friendly | Yes, in accessible public areas |
About the Dunedin Street Art Trail
The Dunedin Street Art Trail showcases commissioned murals that blend contemporary art with the city’s heritage buildings and laneways. As a UNESCO Creative City, Dunedin has long supported public art, and the trail extends this tradition by bringing large-scale works into everyday urban spaces. The project started with a 2014 festival that invited artists to paint ten walls and has since expanded to more than fifty pieces in the central city alone.
Many murals reference local history, wildlife and cultural influences, including Māori, Scottish and Chinese elements visible in collaborative pieces near the Octagon. The trail encourages visitors to explore lesser-known corners while supporting nearby businesses such as cafes and microbreweries that often sit beside the artworks. It remains free and accessible, with new installations continuing to appear as buildings are refurbished.
Outside the central trail, South Dunedin maintains its own separate street art initiative focused on community-led projects. The main trail stays concentrated on the walkable central areas that connect easily with other historical and cultural sites.
Key Locations
Bath Street, just off the Octagon, features one of the earliest commissioned works: a large tuatara by Belgian artist ROA. Nearby, Moray Place includes monochromatic pieces by UK artist Phlegm and works by local artists Aroha Novak and Guy Howard Smith. The Exchange area around lower Princes Street and Stafford Street hosts Pixel Pancho’s steampunk jockey and DALeast’s depiction of the extinct Haast eagle.
Rattray Street displays Fintan Magee’s tall mural of cloud-catching children, while the heritage Warehouse Precinct contains additional large-scale pieces on renovated buildings. Bond Street previously held Natalia Rak’s “Love is in the Air,” which was painted over in 2024 after building repairs and replaced by a new work titled “Lion Heart.”
Featured Artists and Works
International artists have contributed signature styles to the trail. ROA is known for large monochrome animal murals, while Phlegm creates intricate, often eerie monochrome scenes. DALeast uses dynamic lines to portray the Haast eagle, and Pixel Pancho brings robotic and organic themes. Australian artist Fintan Magee connects with local stories through figurative works featuring children. Local and New Zealand artists add pieces that reflect Dunedin’s migration history and contemporary identity.
Visitor Experience and Tips
The trail suits a relaxed half-day or full-day wander, with opportunities to combine art viewing with coffee stops or brewery visits. Many murals are best viewed in good daylight, and some laneways offer additional interest after dark, including UV-reactive works. Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestones and laneway surfaces. The route passes heritage buildings and public spaces, making it easy to extend the visit to nearby attractions such as the Dunedin Public Art Gallery.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors enjoy discovering hidden laneways and the mix of large-scale international works with local stories. Many appreciate the free self-guided format and the chance to combine art with cafe stops and heritage exploration.
Reviewers note that the trail feels approachable for all ages and provides a fresh perspective on the city beyond standard tourist sights. Some mention returning to see new murals as the collection evolves.
Where to Learn More
DunedinNZ.com Insiders’ Guide: Official overview with area-by-area descriptions and an interactive map.
Dunedin Street Art website: Dedicated site with artist profiles and location details.
Dunedin i-SITE: Source for the free printed street art trail map and visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dunedin Street Art Trail free?
Yes, the self-guided trail is completely free and open to the public at all times.
Are guided tours available?
Guided city walking tours include street art highlights; check with the i-SITE for current options.
Where can I get a map?
Free printed maps are available at the Dunedin i-SITE Visitor Centre, and an interactive version is online.
Is the trail suitable for families?
Yes, the central locations are in public, accessible areas suitable for visitors of all ages.
Can I take photos?
Photography is encouraged; please respect the artworks and any private property.
Are there new murals added regularly?
New works continue to appear as part of ongoing city and precinct developments.
What is the best time to visit?
Daylight hours are ideal for viewing; the trail can be enjoyed year-round with comfortable walking shoes.
Does the trail include South Dunedin?
The main central trail is separate from the South Dunedin Street Art Trail, which has its own community-focused projects.
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