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The unique aesthetic, historical, cultural and architectural aspects of the Dunedin townscape are characterised by a high concentration of heritage buildings (the highest in New Zealand) and many of them residential.

In total there are 739 buildings scheduled in the proposed District Plan.

Although development has continued, the general appearance is one of a Victorian or Edwardian City, and this is part of Dunedin's intrinsic charm and appeal to residents and visitors alike.

Dunedin has managed to retain many buildings that reflect its prominence as a centre of industrial and commercial growth during the 19th and early 20th century.

Subsequent slower growth rates have allowed the retention of much of this valuable architectural inheritance, and by the same token the solid sense of permanence and grandeur endowed by the planners and builders of the Victorian and Edwardian era.

Heritage as an asset

The Dunedin City Planning Manager, recognises the challenge of retaining and encouraging the maintenance of heritage and character buildings as part and parcel of the current policy of sustainable management acknowledged by the Dunedin City Council and adopted in the proposed District Plan.

We understand the need to retain buildings but also realise that the key to the long term maintenance of them is successful re-use.

We try and take a positive "can do" approach.

On the one hand recognising the need to protect and preserve, whilst on the other actively working with property owners to shape changes so as to reflect the character and vitality of our beautiful city," he says.

Heritage buildings and homes are recognised as a major asset to Dunedin and of benefit to the local population in a number of ways.

They provide a strong sense of community and belonging, they enhance community lifestyle, promote the appropriate re-use of buildings, and maintain the important link between the present and the past for current and future generations.

The economic advantages of active protection of heritage and character buildings can be seen in the growth of associated tourism businesses, urban renewal and development, the creation of employment opportunities and property investment.