The Octagon 1949

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$ 599.00 NZD
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Ōtepoti Dunedin's iconic Octagon wasn't always the vibrant heart of the city it is today. Back in 1846, surveyor Charles Kettle merely dreamt of a grand central space.

Early days saw it as a dumping ground and grazing spot, far from the bustling centre it would become. However, a key turning point came in the 1870s with the excavation of Bell Hill, connecting settlements and paving the way for the Octagon's future prominence.

The 1890s witnessed grand structures like St. Paul's Cathedral, Dunedin Town Hall, and its still-standing plane trees along the edge of the central roadway solidified its position as the heart of the city.

This aerial view of the Octagon in Ōtepoti Dunedin, captured by Whites Aviation in November 1949 as part of their popular series showcasing aerial photography and aviation history, offers a unique perspective on the transformed space.

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Dunedin. Whites Aviation Ltd: Photographs. Ref: WA-23421-G. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22760905

This vintage photographic print captures the bustling charm of Dunedin’s city center in the 1940s, focusing on The Octagon and the vibrant streets that fan out from this central hub. With George Street, Princess Street, and Stuart Street converging, the scene showcases a lively mix of classic cars navigating tree-lined roads flanked by Victorian architecture. The Dunedin Public Art Centre stands proudly among the heritage buildings, highlighting the city's deep-rooted appreciation for arts and culture. Dunedin’s Scottish heritage is apparent in the architecture and city layout, with a nod to the old-world charm of its namesake, Edinburgh. The print also reflects Dunedin’s identity as a university city, home to a dynamic student population and a thriving cultural scene. Events and gatherings bring energy to the streets, with the Otago Peninsula’s natural beauty only a short drive away. This timeless image offers a nostalgic glimpse into Dunedin’s rich history, capturing its artistic soul and heritage-laden architecture. Perfect for fans of New Zealand art and vintage prints, this piece preserves the spirit of “Dunners,” a city where tradition and creativity intertwine.
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HANDCRAFTED in NZ

Our frames are sustainably sourced, solid wood frames handmade in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.

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SIZE GUIDES

L
XL
Framed Print
87.1cm x 62.4cm
124cm x 89cm
Frame (width x depth)
2cm x 3cm
3cm x 2cm
Print only
84.1cm x 59.4cm (A1)
118.9cm x 84.1cm (A0)
L
XL
Framed Print
62.4cm x 87.1cm
89cm x 124cm
Frame (width x depth)
2cm x 3cm
3cm x 2cm
Print only
59.4cm x 84.1cm (A1)
84.1cm x 118.9cm (A0)

PRINT & FRAME DETAILS

  • Our framed prints do NOT use mat bevel-cut card borders. If you wish to get a mat bevel-cut border please get in touch.
  • We use gallery-quality enhanced matte paper (230gsm) using archival pigment inks on the latest Epson printers.
  • Our frames are sustainably sourced, solid wood, and handmade in New Zealand with glazing to protect your print. If you wish to add UV protection and anti-reflective coatings to glazing please get in touch.
  • D-rings and cord will be pre-installed on your frame. Nails and instructions to help you hang your frame included.

SHIPPING & DELIVERY

  • All of our frames and prints are locally made to order.
  • Shipping costs are calculated at checkout.
  • Framed prints dispatch within 10 business days .
  • Print only dispatch within 5 business days.
  • Orders are shipped via tracked couriers. Standard service to non-rural areas is overnight in the North Island and 2 business days for the South Island.
  • Larger framed orders bound for Auckland may be delivered by our suppliers own vehicle to reduce risk of damage. You will receive an SMS message on the day we plan to deliver and you can respond to this message to provide a safe location to leave the package.
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