Olveston is a historic house museum at 42 Royal Terrace, Dunedin, built in 1906 for Dunedin businessman David Theomin, his wife Marie and their children Edward and Dorothy.
### History
The house was designed by English architect Sir Ernest George and showcased fine art and artefacts collected from around the world. After the Theomin children died without heirs, Dorothy remained in the house until her death in 1966, when she bequeathed it to the city of Dunedin. It opened as a historic house museum in 1967 and preserves the life of a wealthy early-twentieth-century merchant family.
### Visiting
Entry to the house is by one-hour guided tour. Group tours (10 or more) are available in English, Cantonese, French, German, Japanese and Mandarin. The gardens and gift shop are free to enter, and a 1921 Fiat 510 Tourer is on display. Parking is available nearby.
Note: the website states the house is closed to the public from 1 July to October 2026 for electrical upgrades, so check current status before planning.
### Hire
Olveston is available for events and special occasions; contact reception (+64 3 477 3320) for details, as capacities are not published online.
### MICE suitability
A distinctive option for small, high-end receptions, partner programmes and heritage tours in Dunedin. See more Dunedin venues.
Capacity
Nearby listings on the MICE record — indicative only, not a recommendation unless marked Featured.