University of Otago Clocktower
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

University of Otago Tours

New Zealand's Oldest University, Beside the Water of Leith.

Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university, and its bluestone Clocktower building is one of the most photographed sights in Dunedin. Our city tours stop here so you can stroll the lawns beside the Water of Leith and take in the Gothic Revival architecture with a local guide.

The Clocktower

The bluestone Clocktower building is the historic heart of the campus and a favourite photograph of Dunedin.

Campus Gardens

Lawns, mature trees and the Water of Leith running through the grounds make for a pleasant short walk.

A Photo Stop

On our tours this is a short photo stop, typically around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the day's timing.

Part of a Bigger Day

The same day takes in Dunedin Railway Station, St Clair, Signal Hill, Baldwin Street, the Octagon, the Otago Peninsula and Larnach Castle.

Two Ways to Visit With Us

Dunedin Shore Excursion. Our shared shore excursion for cruise passengers, about six hours, collects you from the Port Chalmers Cruise Ship Terminal or the Cruise Ship Wharf in central Dunedin, from NZ$264 per adult.

Private Excursion. Any day of the year: your own vehicle and local guide, booked by the hour, picking you up from your hotel, the airport or any Dunedin address.

Questions

Is the University of Otago on the Dunedin Shore Excursion?

Yes. The University of Otago is one of the city stops on the Dunedin Shore Excursion, alongside Dunedin Railway Station.

How long do we spend at the university?

It is a short photo stop, typically around 15 to 20 minutes. On a Private Excursion you can choose to spend longer.

Can we go inside the Clocktower building?

Our stop focuses on the exterior and grounds. The university is a working campus, so access to buildings is not part of the tour.

Is the campus accessible?

The main paths around the Clocktower lawn are generally flat, though some surfaces are uneven. Please contact us before booking so we can discuss your needs.

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