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Port Chalmers

Port Chalmers, Dunedin - click for more.
Port Chalmers is a scenic 15 minute drive from Dunedin, and is a popular weekend destination for locals and tourists alike.
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A delightful 15-minute drive around the northern shore of Otago Harbour leads to the town of Port Chalmers.

This deep water port has strong historical ties to the European settlement of the Otago area. Founded in 1844, the early wooden buildings were soon replaced with brick and stone as the wealth of the Otago gold rush began to flow. Many of these early sturdy homes remain, forming part of the bohemian charm of this seaside town.

In 1882, the first frozen meat exports from New Zealand left through Port Chalmers. This trade continues today through the adjacent modern container terminal. Several early Antarctic expeditions left from Port Chalmers, and there remains a memorial to Captain Scott, whose 1901 and 1910 expeditions departed from here.

Something of an artists' colony today, Port Chalmers has several galleries and a small seafaring museum. The museum is housed in the original 1877 stone post office building. It has a maritime collection and a settlers' collection, telling the stories of early pioneers and many port characters who have lived here over the years.

Today, the township is a popular weekend excursion for locals. The harbourside setting, intriguing galleries and relaxing eateries, all within easy walking distance of each other, make for a great day out.
 


 
DUNEDIN - COASTAL OTAGO Region


Contact Details

Contact: Dunedin i-SITE Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 3 4743 300
Fax: +64 3 4743 311
Postal: PO Box 5457 Dunedin
Website: www.dunedin.govt.nz/visitor-centre

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Port Chalmers is the closest town to this highlight.

In Port Chalmers:

Other towns near Port Chalmers by road:

Other towns near Port Chalmers by rail:

Port Chalmers does not have any rail stations.

Other towns near Port Chalmers by air:

Port Chalmers does not have scheduled passenger air services.

The nearest airport is in Dunedin (11 minutes)

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