Historical Walking Tour of Dunedin’s Dark Past with Tales From Darkest Dunedin
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people, no special physical effort needed
Overview
Discover Dunedin’s dark past with a thrilling 1.5-hour true crime tour led by Gregor Campbell. Dive into chilling stories of murder and mystery that bring the city’s Victorian history vividly to life.
Tales of Murder and Woe - True Crime in Victorian Dunedin
All ages • 1.5hrs approx. • Explore Dunedin's true crime history at night
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About This Adventure
Explore the darker side of Otepoti/Dunedin on a captivating 1.5-hour tour led by expert guide Gregor Campbell. Discover chilling true stories of crime and murder as you drive through historic sites, including the Northern Cemetery, all while relaxing in a comfortable minibus. Experience the city’s haunting past come alive.
Otepoti/Dunedin was settled by Free Church Presbyterians in 1848. They worked hard and went to church on Sunday.
Duration
1.5 hrs
About
The gold rush in 1861 brought with it a completely different population to the one first envisioned - a much more lively and less law abiding one.
Your guide, Gregor Campbell has spent years curating true stories of crime and murder from Dunedin's grim past. He tells the tales expertly with poise and dignity as he drives around the seemingly harmless areas of Dunedin that, over a hundred years ago were more sordid and despairing. Relax back in a brand new Toyota Hiace minibus while Gregor brings our city back to life.... if only temporarily.
Tour is an hour and a half, pick up in The Octagon.
Drive through the Northern Cemetery and then around various spots in the inner city where historical murders took place.
Adventure Tips
Dress comfortably for walking and weather
Wear layered clothing and comfortable shoes as the tour involves some standing and walking.
Bring a notepad or phone for notes
Jot down interesting stories or locations you want to remember after the tour.
Prepare for dim lighting and atmospheric settings
The tour includes some dark and historic sites, so bring a flashlight if desired.
Stay seated during the minibus drive
Remain seated and attentive during the city drive for safety and enjoyment.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons in the city squares
- House cats in the historic neighborhoods
History
Dunedin’s Victorian architecture and early criminal cases contribute richly to the stories told during the tour.
Conservation
This tour promotes appreciation of Dunedin’s historic sites and encourages respectful visitation and preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Dunedin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking through historic sites and city streets comfortably.
Warm layers
Dress warmly if visiting during cooler months, especially at dusk.
winter specific
Compact flashlight or headlamp
Useful for dimly lit areas or nighttime parts of the tour.
Notebook or smartphone for notes
Capture insights or recall favorite stories after the tour.