Baldwin Street | Dunedin

Baldwin Street is located in Dunedin, on the South Island of New Zealand, and it holds the distinction of being the steepest residential street in the world. It has become an iconic landmark and a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe who come to witness its extraordinary incline.

Key Features of Baldwin Street:

1. The Steepness

Baldwin Street has an incline of 35%, making it officially the steepest street in the world, as recognized by the Guinness World Records. The street rises sharply from 30 meters (98 feet) at its base to a height of 100 meters (328 feet) over its 350-meter (1,150 feet) length.

The steepness of the street creates a unique experience for visitors, as walking up or down the street is a challenge, especially for those not accustomed to such a gradient. It’s often a test of endurance to climb to the top, and some even make it a fun challenge to race or time themselves.

2. History and Development

Baldwin Street was originally constructed in the 1860s during the development of the city of Dunedin. In its early days, the street was not nearly as steep as it is today, but over the years, the surrounding area was developed, and the steep incline became more pronounced.

The street was initially built to accommodate residential homes, and despite its incline, it continues to be a functional street with residences on either side.

3. Popularity and Tourism

Baldwin Street has become a significant tourist attraction due to its steepness, uniqueness, and the challenge it presents to those who wish to climb it. The street is often featured in travel guides and has become a must-see destination for visitors to Dunedin.

Tourists often come to either walk or drive up and down the street to take in the views from the top, which offer a stunning panorama of the Dunedin city, Otago Harbour, and the surrounding landscape.

4. Baldwin Street Gutbuster

One of the most famous events associated with Baldwin Street is the Baldwin Street Gutbuster, an annual race where participants run or walk up and down the street to complete a challenging course. The race is held to raise funds for charity and has become a popular event, attracting both locals and tourists.

The event is known for its difficulty due to the steep incline, but it’s also a fun and festive occasion that brings people together to challenge themselves and support good causes.

5. Attractions and Nearby Points of Interest

The top of Baldwin Street offers sweeping views of the surrounding area, including Dunedin’s coastline, Mount Cargill, and the Otago Peninsula in the distance. Visitors can also take in the city’s architecture and landmarks from this elevated vantage point.

Baldwin Street is also close to other notable attractions in Dunedin, including the Otago Museum, Dunedin Railway Station, and Larnach Castle, all of which are within easy driving distance or accessible by public transport.

6. The Baldwin Street Sign

• At the top of Baldwin Street is a signpost that proudly marks the street as the steepest in the world. It serves as a popular photo opportunity for tourists who visit the street to capture their achievement of climbing to the top.

7. Walking and Accessibility

Due to its steepness, Baldwin Street is not suitable for wheelchair access or those with mobility challenges. However, it remains a popular spot for those who are able-bodied and enjoy taking on physical challenges.

Many visitors choose to drive up the street or take photos from the bottom to capture its dramatic slope. For those who prefer a less physically demanding experience, the Dunedin Botanic Gardens, located nearby, offer a more relaxed and scenic stroll through nature.

8. Residential Life

• Despite its global fame as a tourist attraction, Baldwin Street is still home to several residents who live along the street. The houses on Baldwin Street are unique due to the extreme incline and are often designed to adapt to the slope, with stairs and terraces built into the architecture.

Summary

Baldwin Street is an iconic and unique feature of Dunedin, offering an exceptional experience for anyone visiting the city. Its title as the steepest street in the world makes it a fascinating landmark to see, whether you're challenging yourself to walk to the top or simply admiring it from below. The street is a symbol of Dunedin’s rich history and its connection to both the natural landscape and urban development, making it a must-visit attraction for tourists and a point of pride for locals.