Dunedin Railway Public Toilets

Located near the railway walking overbridge, this facility is a first-of-its-kind in the South Island – purpose-built to support individuals who are unable to use standard accessible bathrooms or public toilets.

At the heart of the project is a fully equipped Changing Places facility, designed for users with complex care needs. The space includes a height-adjustable toilet and hand basin, a privacy screen, built-in grab rails, and a change table that doubles as a shower bed. A ceiling-mounted track hoist system has also been incorporated, allowing users and caregivers to move safely and comfortably within the space.

Access to the Changing Places facility is managed via key card, available to registered members through Changing Places New Zealand, ensuring the space remains secure and fit for purpose.

In addition to the Changing Places bathroom, the facility includes one standard public toilet and one ambulant-accessible toilet, providing a well-rounded solution for a wide range of users.

The design was carefully developed to suit its historic surroundings, including a bespoke exposed aggregate finish to the precast concrete walls. Internally, fixtures such as recessed hand dryers and a recessed double roll holder sanitary bin system were selected to maintain a clean, durable and low-maintenance environment.

The central location was chosen in collaboration with the disabled community and local advocates, ensuring strong accessibility, proximity to the city centre, and ease of use. External works include landscaping and the provision for a drive-in mobility parking space, further supporting accessibility.

The result is a thoughtfully designed, highly specialised facility that sets a new benchmark for inclusive public infrastructure in the South Island, while remaining robust, practical and easy to maintain.