Olveston Historic Home

The Basics

An Olveston Historic Home tour is like touring the world through the eyes of the original owner, businessman and philanthropist David Theomin. He collected items from across the globe, which are now on display. Theomin family members lived in the house until 1966, after which the house was gifted to the city of Dunedin. It’s been a historic house museum ever since.

A guided tour of the house and gardens is a good way to learn about the history and culture of Dunedin, one of New Zealand’s most important cities. Travelers often visit as part of a full-day tour around Dunedin. Such tours usually include a few city attractions, followed by an excursion to see wildlife on the Otago Peninsula.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A guided tour is necessary to see the interior of the house, but entry to the gardens and gift shop is free.

• Dunedin is a very hilly city and Olveston House is located on a hill, so walking there may not be suited to travelers with mobility issues.

• Not all of Olveston’s guided tours are the same. You can join a tour with morning tea, an art collector’s tour, and other themed options. Check the website for timings.

• Tours operate in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, French, German, and Japanese.

How to Get There

Olveston Historic House is in Royal Terrace in North Dunedin, a suburb quite close to central Dunedin. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the Octagon, the Otago Museum, or the University of Otago. Guided bus tours take you directly to Olveston.

When to Get There

Olveston Historic Home is open 9am to 5pm daily year-round, except Christmas Day. Guided tours run six times per day. As this is mostly an indoor activity, and Dunedin sees a lot of rainy days, a visit to Olveston Historic Home is an ideal activity when the weather is bad.

Edwardian Games at Olveston

Olveston, built from 1904 to 1906, is an Edwardian-era house. For a fun morning or afternoon with friends or family or to celebrate an event, such as a birthday, book the “Edwardian Games” tour at Olveston. You’ll get the regular guided tour, followed by croquet in the manicured gardens, with a cup of tea or coffee. Bookings should be made a week in advance.

How do I contact Olveston Historic Home?

The best way to contact Olveston Historic Home is by email or phone. The official website lists both on its contact page. You can make tour bookings online via the website, where you can also get in touch with additional questions or book group tours.

Is visiting Olveston Historic Home worth it?

Yes, Olveston Historic Home is one of New Zealand’s most remarkably preserved 1960s mansion houses. While there, explore the one-time residence of the Theomin family on one of its guided tours. Plus, admire the work of English architect Sir Ernest George, the prized art collection, and the magnificent garden.

Do you need reservations to visit Olveston Historic Home?

Yes, to avoid showing up to a sold-out tour, it’s best to book in advance. You can only visit Olveston Historic Home on a guided tour, and popular times do sell out, especially over weekends and holidays. However, those without a booking can join the next available tour.

How much does it cost to visit Olveston Historic Home?

You can only visit Olveston Historic Home as part of a guided tour, and prices start from NZ$25 for adult admission. Admission for children between 6 and 17 is NZ$14, while children 5 and under are free. Discounted family tickets and concessions are also available.

Is there free parking at Olveston Historic Home?

No, there is no parking available at Olveston Historic Home. However, there is all-day and P90 (maximum 90-minute) parking spaces around Olveston for a fee. Parking can hard to find at busy times, such as summer holidays, when walking or hopping in a taxi is easier.

How long does it take to tour Olveston Historic Home?

General admission to Olveston Historic Home is by guided tour only, and the most popular house tours take one hour. However, you'll want extra time to stroll around the garden, admire the building exteriors, and see the family’s vintage car, as well as browse the gift shop.