Marama Hall, Dunedin

Marama Hall is a historic and culturally significant building. Originally built in 1916 as the university鈥檚 first medical school library, the hall has since evolved into a dedicated space for musical performance and academic use. Its name, "Marama," comes from the M膩ori word for 鈥渓ight鈥� or 鈥渕oon,鈥� reflecting the institution鈥檚 commitment to intellectual and cultural illumination. Today, it serves as one of the primary performance venues for the university鈥檚 School of Performing Arts.

Architecturally, Marama Hall stands out with its restrained Edwardian design, characterized by red brickwork, symmetrical lines, and simple detailing. Though modest in scale compared to some of the university鈥檚 grander stone buildings, the hall exudes a quiet dignity. Its interior features a small concert space with excellent acoustics, a stage area, and seating suited for recitals, chamber music, lectures, and special events. Original wood detailing and period finishes give the venue a warm, inviting character.

For visitors exploring Dunedin鈥檚 rich blend of academic and artistic life, Marama Hall offers a unique experience. The building frequently hosts public concerts and recitals by both students and visiting musicians, making it a hub of creative energy within the city. Its role in fostering local talent and showcasing classical and contemporary music adds an important layer to Dunedin鈥檚 cultural identity.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Marama Hall
Sight Location: Dunedin, New Zealand (See walking tours in Dunedin)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

University of Otago Historical Buildings Walk

Walking Tours in Dunedin, New Zealand

Create Your Own Walk in Dunedin

Creating your own self-guided walk in Dunedin is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Dunedin Introduction Walking Tour

Dunedin, located on New Zealand鈥檚 South Island, is a city where Scottish heritage meets dramatic natural landscapes. Known for its rich academic, architectural, and cultural legacy, the city is home to the University of Otago鈥攖he country鈥檚 oldest university鈥攁nd a vibrant student population that infuses the area with energy. Visitors will notice the city鈥檚 distinctive 19th-century... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles

University of Otago Historical Buildings Walk

The University of Otago campus in Dunedin is renowned for its collection of historic buildings that showcase a rich blend of architectural styles, reflecting the institution鈥檚 long academic legacy since its founding in 1869. At its heart lies the iconic Clocktower Building, a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture completed in the 1870s, built from locally sourced dark basalt and Oamaru... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles

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