Dunedin is the second southernmost city in the world with a central focus on education and innovation. A strong history of educating the nation’s youth, especially in the fields of medicine and health care, has earned Dunedin a reputation as a vibrant place to live. Dunedin real estate is extremely varied, with a wide range of suburbs offering diverse characteristics and environmental settings, from vibrant city center locations to relaxed seaside settings. The central city is dominated by the ‘octagon’, which is an eight-sided commercial area. Being surrounded by trendy cafes and bars, along with the main outlets, this is a popular and dynamic central area. The main business area is expanding rapidly due to the success of local businesses, rising property values, and the increased wealth and prosperity experienced by the general population. The city is also characterized by historic buildings that resemble cities in Scotland, while large public parks provide a great place for family outings.
Called the inner suburbs, these are the regions that lie within the circle of hills that surround the center of Dunedin. The hills give way on the east coast to the port of Otago and the beaches of St Clair and St Kilda. Mount Cargill, a volcanic outcrop, stands 660 meters high and dominates the northern horizon. Pine Hill, the suburb that sits proudly on the volcanic ridge, is characterized by sublime views and characterful homes that have been renovated to their former glory. The northern part of the city center includes much of the university buildings and other tertiary institutions. North East Valley is a residential suburb nestled between Pine and Signal Hills, home to the steepest street in the world. Towards the southern end of the suburb and valley are the Botanical Gardens.
Where the urban environment gives way to the rural environment is Normanby. This suburb is famous for its wooded recreation areas, preserves, and walking trails. Ravensbourne is one of Dunedin’s oldest suburbs with a unique character and identity, bordering the edge of the harbour. The beach areas of St Kilda and St Clair and some of the more popular suburbs where the coastal region stretches across Dunedin. St Kilda is an affordable residential neighbourhood, while St Clair is one of the wealthier suburbs with the ruins of Cargill Castle and St Clair Golf Club atop.
With a wide range of suburbs, property types and varied prices, Dunedin real estate offers the potential buyer a plethora of options, from modest homes on idyllic streets to small mansions overlooking St Kilda’s sandy beaches. No matter what your preference is, get in touch with a local Dunedin real estate agency who understands the market and variation of real estate available in Dunedin.