Archives for 2023

SPOOKY PRISONS

Dunedin Prison, completed in 1896, is recognised internationally as a rare example of a purpose-built courtyard prison. Constructed from red brick with distinctive white mouldings and wall bands as well as cupolas and corner windows, the prison is a great example of the Queen Anne style of architecture.

The facility had cells for 52 male and 20 female inmates so was the smallest urban prison in New Zealand. In 1915, an administration block was added to allow police to operate from the building. In 2007, the prison was decommissioned when a new facility was opened at Milton, 54km (33miles) south of Dunedin. read more