Designed for Dunedin Businessman and Philanthropist Mr David Theomin by English architect, Sir Ernest George, (1839-1922), Olveston was built between 1904 and 1906. Jacobean in style, the grace and grandeur of Olveston is distinguished by a wealth of decorative detail, while maintaining the intimacy of a private family home.
Situated on an acre of manicured gardens, the house is located in the 'town belt'. With 35 stately rooms containing the original contents of the Theomin Family, Olveston carries a Category 1 New Zealand Historic Places Listing. Throughout his life, David Theomin and his family travelled extensively across the world and lavished their home with priceless artefacts and fine art and objects.
Visitors to Olveston are very conscious of the family throughout the home, enjoying and experiencing the many treasures that were an integral part of the family's day-to-day life. There is no more accurate or definitive example of fine Edwardian living anywhere else in New Zealand. Olveston is one of Dunedin's best kept secrets.
Parking - Free street parking around Olveston is limited and time restrictions apply in some areas. Visitor parking permits are available.
Tours - Commence at 9.30 and 10.45 am, 12 noon, 1.30, 2.45 and 4 pm.
Spend a magical hour absorbing the atmosphere in theTheomin family's historic home and be transported to an era of fine living, grace and style.