
Baldwin Street Dunedin
Experience the world's steepest residential street, a unique Dunedin landmark that offers a challenging climb and rewarding views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Baldwin Street Dunedin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the world's steepest residential street, a unique Dunedin landmark that offers a challenging climb and rewarding views.
"It's steep, alright. The steepest. "

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll want good grip and support for this steep climb!
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially if you're walking up.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Steep Ascent
Baldwin Street
Experience the world's steepest residential street. Feel the burn as you walk or drive up this iconic Dunedin landmark.

Panoramic Views
Top of Baldwin Street
Reach the summit and enjoy rewarding views over Dunedin. A perfect spot for a photo op and a well-deserved breather.

Jaffa Race Spectacle
Baldwin Street
If you're lucky, catch the annual Jaffa Race, where thousands of Jaffas (chocolate balls) are rolled down the street!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Guinness World Record Status
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll want good grip and support for this steep climb!
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially if you're walking up.
🚗 Drive or Walk?
Driving up is easier, but walking is the true challenge!
📸 Photo Op
Capture the iconic view from the bottom or the top.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll want good grip and support for this steep climb!
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially if you're walking up.
🚗 Drive or Walk?
Driving up is easier, but walking is the true challenge!
📸 Photo Op
Capture the iconic view from the bottom or the top.
Rest Stops Available
Seats are available halfway and at the top for a breather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently marvel at Baldwin Street's status as the world's steepest residential road, finding the climb a unique and memorable challenge. While some find it a strenuous workout, others appreciate the novelty and the rewarding views from the top. The street's quirky charm and its place in the Guinness World Records make it a must-see Dunedin attraction.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Baldwin Street is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Dunedin's city center. You can easily reach it by car, taxi, or ride-sharing service. Parking can be limited near the street itself, so consider parking a little further away and walking.
While there isn't a direct bus stop right at the base of Baldwin Street, several bus routes pass through the surrounding areas of Dunedin. You might need to walk a short distance from the nearest bus stop. Check local Dunedin bus schedules for routes serving the North Dunedin area.
Yes, you can drive up Baldwin Street. Many visitors choose to drive to experience the steepness without the strenuous walk. Be cautious of pedestrians and other vehicles, especially during busy times.
Parking directly on or immediately around Baldwin Street can be very limited due to its residential nature and popularity. It's often recommended to find parking on a nearby street and walk to the base of Baldwin Street.
Baldwin Street is located approximately 10 minutes by car from the heart of Dunedin's city center, making it an easily accessible attraction for day-trippers and visitors staying in town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or admission fees required to visit Baldwin Street. It's a public residential street, and you can walk or drive up it freely at any time.
Baldwin Street is a public street and is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the surroundings.
There is no entrance fee for Baldwin Street. It is a free public attraction in Dunedin.
While you can technically visit Baldwin Street at night, it's not recommended. The street is residential, and visibility can be poor, making it less safe and enjoyable.
While there aren't official guided tours specifically for Baldwin Street, many city tours of Dunedin may include a stop or mention of this famous landmark. You can also explore it independently.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The time it takes to walk up Baldwin Street varies greatly depending on your fitness level. For most people, it can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes to reach the top.
Baldwin Street has a maximum gradient of 34.8%, which translates to a 19-degree incline. This steepness is what earned it the Guinness World Record.
Yes, there are seats available at the top of Baldwin Street, providing a place to rest and enjoy the view after your climb. Some sources mention a seat halfway up as well.
Baldwin Street can be a fun challenge for older children, but it's very steep. Parents should supervise young children closely, especially if walking. Driving up might be a better option for families with very young children.
Many visitors enjoy the challenge of walking up the street, while others prefer to drive up or down. Taking photos from both the bottom and the top is a must!
📸 📸 Photography
For the classic shot, position yourself at the bottom of the street looking up to capture its full steepness. The top also offers great panoramic views of Dunedin.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour lighting, making your photos pop. However, any time during daylight hours will offer good visibility.
Besides the street itself, the views from the top are excellent. If you're there during the Jaffa Race, that's a unique and lively photo opportunity!
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check the latest New Zealand drone laws and any local restrictions in Dunedin before flying a drone over residential areas like Baldwin Street.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full steepness of the street from the bottom. A standard lens will work well for shots from the top. Most smartphone cameras are sufficient for capturing the experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are rest stops available, which can be a lifesaver for families needing a break. Make it a game to see who can get to the top first, or simply enjoy the unique experience of being on such an unusual street.
🏃 Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider incorporating it into a larger fitness routine in Dunedin. The steep incline provides excellent cardiovascular and leg strength training. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate athletic shoes for the best experience.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Consider visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon for beautiful lighting. If you're lucky enough to be there during the Jaffa Race, it's a dynamic and colorful event to capture. Remember to be mindful of residents and traffic while you're shooting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Steepest Street Controversy
However, the claim to fame wasn't always undisputed. In 2019, a street in Wales briefly challenged Baldwin Street's record. This sparked a spirited defense from New Zealand, which ultimately retained the title. The story adds an interesting layer to the street's history and its place in the record books.
This ongoing recognition makes Baldwin Street more than just a steep incline; it's a symbol of Dunedin's unique character and a testament to its enduring claim to being the steepest.
Experiencing the Climb
For those who prefer a less strenuous approach, driving up Baldwin Street is a popular alternative. It still allows you to appreciate the incline without the physical exertion. Regardless of how you ascend, the views from the top are a welcome reward.
To make the climb more comfortable, locals have installed benches at the halfway point and at the summit, offering much-needed resting spots for weary climbers. These thoughtful additions ensure that more people can enjoy the experience and the panoramic vistas.
Events and Local Culture
Another notable event is the Gutbuster Run, a challenging race that tests participants' endurance as they tackle the steep gradient. These events highlight the community's embrace of their unique street and turn it into a focal point for local celebration and athletic endeavor.
These events showcase the spirit of Dunedin and how residents have creatively integrated Baldwin Street into their local culture, making it a memorable destination beyond just its record-holding status.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit