Wanderyn
Baldwin Street
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · NZ

Baldwin Street

Getting around: In the North East Valley suburb of Dunedin, about a 15-20 minute walk or short drive/bus ride from the city centre.
Hours: No fixed hours — it's a public residential street, open at all times, though it's obviously a working neighbourhood so visitors should be respectful of residents.

Baldwin Street holds the Guinness World Record for steepest residential street in the world, with a gradient reaching around 35% (19 degrees) near its top. It's a short, quirky detour rather than a major attraction — most visitors walk (or struggle) to the top for the view and a photo, and it's the site of an annual Jaffa-rolling charity event where thousands of the chocolate lollies are rolled down the slope.

Because it's a residential street with a name, expect narrow footpaths and be mindful of the people who actually live there.

Baldwin Street FAQs

How steep is it really?

About 35% gradient (roughly 19 degrees) at its steepest point, officially the world's steepest residential street.

Can I drive up it?

Yes, though it's steep enough that it feels unusual; walking up (or down) is the more common visitor experience.

What is the Jaffa Race?

An annual charity event where thousands of Jaffa lollies (chocolate-orange sweets) are rolled down the street, usually around July.

Is there anything else to do there?

Not much beyond the street itself and the photo/view from the top — it's a quick 15-30 minute stop.

Is it free?

Yes, it's a public street with no entry fee.

Your travel graph
Ready to plan Baldwin Street?Planning a trip soon? Add it to build an itinerary.

Reviews/Comments

No comments yet — be the first.