The Dunedin Club has a distinguished history which stretches back to the pioneers of the 1850s. In 1848 the two settler ships John Wickliffe and Philip Laing berthed at Dunedin, bringing Otago’s first European migrants. Ten years later, a group of entrepreneurs founded The Dunedin Club in rented premises in Maclaggan Street.

The Premises which the club occupies today were built by the colourful whaler, run-holder and businessman John (Johnny) Jones in 1867. In 1874 the Club purchased Jones’s Fernhill property. This historically significant building is a dignified example of mid-Victorian colonial architecture, set in spacious landscaped grounds.

The first 150 years of the Dunedin Club

The Dunedin Club has marked its 150th anniversary by publishing a splendidly illustrated book of almost 200 pages. The story has been told with style and humour by Gordon Parry, a longstanding member who has written numerous company and institutional histories. He is well known throughout New Zealand as a writer and broadcaster and this is one of his best books.

The history covers the contributions of Club members to New Zealand and Otago society, including numerous cabinet ministers, from Sir Julius Vogel to more recent incumbents. It notes the founding of major national and international business by Club members, also listing the achievements of judges, leading academics and distinguished medical men.

The splendid Clubhouse has been temporary residence to three future Kings (George V, Edward VIII and George VI), most of the country’s Governors-General, and notable overseas visitors. The grounds include a bowling green on which the first inter-club match in New Zealand was played and a squash court which was the sporting home of at least one national champion.

As well as major events, the book includes much lively and entertaining anecdote.

Signed copies available for $39.95 each

Postage and packaging is additional