Haunted Southern Cemetery Tour by Hair Raiser Tours, Dunedin
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as walking is on gentle slopes with frequent stops
Overview
Step into Dunedin’s Southern Cemetery for a 90-minute guided walk shrouded in mystery. Hair Raiser Tours reveals the gripping stories of early settlers—pandemics, tragedies, and dark secrets await in this haunting outdoor journey.
THE SOUTHERN CEMETERY TOUR
The Southern Screamer Cemetery Walk
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About This Adventure
Embark on a 90-minute journey through Dunedin's Southern Cemetery, guided by a mysterious figure. Uncover the gripping stories of early settlers, including pandemics and tragedies, as you explore hidden corners filled with dark secrets. This unique experience promises a thrilling dive into the city's captivating and macabre history.
Uncover Dunedin's Dark Past: Southern Cemetery Tour of Early Settlers and Hidden Secrets
Duration
90 Minutes
About
Discover the intriguing tales of Dunedin's early settlers and pioneers. Follow your mysterious cloaked guide as you wander through the hidden corners of The Southern Cemetery, uncovering the dark secrets that lie within. Prepare yourself for a journey into Dunedin's past, where pandemics, fires, drownings, and other gripping events await. If you have a strong stomach for the macabre and nerves of steel, join us as we exhume the captivating history of this remarkable city.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths through Southern Cemetery can be uneven and slippery—good footwear helps maintain traction and comfort.
Bring a flashlight
Evening tours require a personal light source to navigate safely and enjoy the atmospheric details of the site.
Stay on marked paths
Respect the historical site and avoid wandering off established trails to preserve fragile graves and vegetation.
Prepare for weather changes
Dunedin's climate is variable—layered clothing keeps you comfortable during sudden shifts in weather.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Fantail (pīwakawaka), known for their curious, lively flight
- New Zealand pigeon (kererū), often seen gliding between trees
History
Southern Cemetery was established in 1858 and serves as a window into Dunedin’s formative years, displaying varied burial styles and reflecting social changes.
Conservation
The cemetery is managed to preserve both its historical monuments and native vegetation, with efforts to minimize erosion and protect local bird habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Dunedin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Necessary to handle uneven and sometimes slippery cemetery paths safely.
Weatherproof jacket
Protects against wind and sudden rain showers common in Dunedin’s climate.
spring specific
Flashlight or headlamp
Useful for evening tours to illuminate dark corners and enhance the eerie atmosphere.
summer specific
Layered clothing
Allows easy adjustment to fluctuating temperatures throughout the tour.
fall specific