Rope Factory

Image Credit: Derek Smith and Maclean Barker Photography

Here is where the Donaghy manufacturing dynasty (In New Zealand terms) made rope, starting in 1876. The very long and very low (380m x 10m) building called a 'rope walk' may well be one of the last such facilities in the Southern Hemisphere, which is why it has Category One status on the Heritage List. Rope making was important during the earlier parts of New Zealand settlement and Donaghy's were the main suppliers.

Facilities like this tunnel building are not needed any more as rope-making can be achieved within smaller places thanks to technological advances. This factory remained competitive until 2014 when it became a victim of international currency issues. A group named the Southern Heritage Trust are hoping to upcycle the rope factory as a tourist attraction.

Architect Edward Walden also designed other buildings of significance around Dunedin.

To visit the rope walk, go to Bathgate park off Hillside road, the lengthy building provides a back fence for the park and for Donaghy's manufacturing facility on Bradshaw Street.