Rebirth of cool

Behind the gorgeous old building façades, tucked into nooks and neighbourhoods all over the city, you’ll find new and popular hotspots with a distinctly Dunedin edge. Local flavours and products are the heroes here, housed in the city’s heritage while giving it new life. Embrace the spring vibe and explore the old with the new in Aotearoa’s most historic city.

THE RETRO FIT 

Whether it’s buildings, dining, or fashion, Dunedin’s experiencing a retro renaissance. Finders Keepers Boutique sells colourful, pre-loved vintage clothing and quirky jewellery and Two Squirrels Vintage is an artfully curated emporium of yesteryear clothing and treasures. The city’s gothic revival isn’t just architectural; Dangerfield fits the classic Dunedin aesthetic while making you nostalgic for your goth days. Find the perfect outfit to wear to the shows and performances of the Dunedin Arts Festival (12–24 October).

SPRING WATERING HOLES 

Dunedin’s vintage vibes continue at Maggies. This café, bar, and arcade (barcade?) offers you a chance to relive those video game days from the nineties while enjoying a pint. Kindred is your go-to for floral tonics and cocktails, while Woof! has a stylish plant room which provides a spring feeling without the need to go outdoors, the perfect setting for enjoying a wine and classic 1970s cheese ball. Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival (28–29 October) season is here, bringing outdoor vibes while under the roof at the Forsyth Barr Stadium, along with plenty of tasty brews to sample.

AL FRESCO FEASTING 

It’s picnic season, so take it to go or dine outdoors to make the most of the weather. Go beachside at the Long Dog Café, followed by a dip in the Hot Salt Water Pool. Patti’s and Cream The Diner serves burgers and handmade ice cream perfect for taking away to enjoy in the sun, while Arc Brewing Co, housed in a former hotel, is the perfect spot for a drawn-out sunset beer. On a Saturday afternoon, visit the Mornington Park Cable Car display with a takeaway from Grid Coffee Roasters, which can be found in a repurposed cable car terminal building.

THE LANE WITH NO NAME

Tucked down a Melbourne-esque laneway in Dunedin’s Bond Quarter is No Name Alley. This unassuming, street art-adorned avenue is quickly becoming a destination for those in the know. Grab a table outside and order a craft beer and pizza at Steamer Basin Brewery and Taproom. Stop by Wild Dispensary, a modern apothecary specialising in herbal remedies foraged from the Otago countryside and early next year, award-winning No.8 Distillery moves to the neighbourhood, bringing their locally-crafted gins and spirits. 

dunedinnz.com

Liam Stretch