Baldwin Street, Dunedin (must see)

Baldwin Street holds the unique distinction of being one of the steepest residential streets in the world, drawing curious visitors from across the globe. Located in the suburb of North East Valley, just a short distance from the city centre, the street climbs sharply from its base and reaches a gradient of about 35% at its steepest point. Though short in length-only about 350 meters-it leaves a lasting impression due to its dramatic incline and quirky appeal.

Originally designed during the 19th century by British planners unfamiliar with Dunedin’s hilly terrain, Baldwin Street was laid out on a grid without regard for the topography. The result was a street that challenged conventional road-building norms and later earned international fame. It once held the Guinness World Record for the steepest street, a title it briefly lost and then regained after a public challenge and measurement review. The local community proudly embraces its fame, and the street has become a symbol of Dunedin’s eccentric charm.

Tourists often make the pilgrimage to Baldwin Street to take photos of the gravity-defying slope, walk (or run) to the top, and purchase themed souvenirs. Each year, the street hosts charitable events and novelty races, such as the famous “Baldwin Street Gutbuster” where participants dash from bottom to top. Concrete rather than asphalt was used to surface the steepest sections, as traditional materials were likely to melt or slide on hot days.