Sensory Friendly Hours around Dunedin

Sensory Friendly Hours and Locations around Dunedin 

If you experience sensory sensitivities, going out can be exhausting. And trying to figure out whether or not quiet hours are offered can be a bit of a quest. So, we've put together a resource that contains current information about businesses and organisations around Dunedin that offer quiet hours or low sensory experiences.

And remember that at Otago Polytechnic we have a low sensory room, Rūma Wahangū G313, available for you during building open hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm.  

 

Location 

Day/Time 

Link 

Notes 

Countdown 
“Quiet Hours” 

Wednesdays 2:30-3:30pm

Click here for the Countdown Quiet Hours webpage

  •   Lighting throughout the store is reduced.  
  •   In-store radio is turned off.  
  •   Checkout volumes are lowered.  
  •   Trolley collection and shelf-stocking is kept to a minimum.  
  •   There are no PA announcements, except in emergencies. 
  •   City Centre location follows these procedures; other locations may vary

Roslyn Fresh Choice
"Quiet Hour"

Wednesdays 2:30-3:30pm

Starting July 2024

  • Half of the store lights turned off
  • Music turned off
  • Volume of the checkout beeps turned down

Tūhura Otago Museum 

“Quiet Afternoons” 

One afternoon per month, 3-5pm. See website for dates. 

Click here for the Quiet Afternoons details and dates

Quiet afternoons feature reduced light and sound for a sensory-friendly experience in the galleries and science centre. 

Rialto Cinemas 
“Sensory Screenings” 

Occasionally 

Click here for the dates and times of Rialto's sensory screenings

  • All tickets $12 
  • Low-level lighting and sound 
  • Session will not have allocated seating 
  • No pre-show 
  • Judgement free zone 
  • Family-friendly films 

Steamer Basin Brewery Taproom 
“Silent Book Club” 

First Tuesday of the month. 6:30-7:30 

Click here for the Silent Bookclub details

  • 6pm - 6.30 : Arrive, order drinks/snacks, share what you're reading 
  • 6.30 - 7.30 : Quiet reading hour 
  • 7.30 - 8.00 : Share recommendations, or just keep reading  
  • Children and dogs welcome. 
  • Seating is limited so please RSVP. 

Toitū Otago Settlers Museum 

 Occassionally

Events | Toitū Otago Settlers Museum Official Website

  • On occasion for specific exhibitions, see events page 
  • Quietest times to visit are weekdays from 2-5pm  

Dunedin Ice Rink 

Weekday daytime public skates 

Dunedin Ice Rink ice skating information

  • Does not specifically offer low-sensory times at present, but there are no flashing lights during weekday daytime public skates (there are flashing and coloured lights during evening and weekend public skates).  
  • During weekday daytime skates, you may talk to staff and they will turn off music/dim lights within reason 
  • Weekday public skates also tend to be less busy during term time 

Dunedin Public Art Gallery 

 Occassionally

Events | Dunedin Public Art Gallery 

 

On occasion for specific events. See events page for info. 

Dunedin Public Library 

 

Wednesdays 1:00-2:00pm

 

Information on Dunedin Public Library's Quiet Hour

Mosgiel, South Dunedin, and City Libraries will all offer a low-sensory hour each week for those who need it.

If you know of any additional sensory-friendly offerings that aren't included on this list, feel free to email the information to Claire at claire.lacey@op.ac.nz or to communications@op.ac.nz

For more information about sensory inclusivity, including tips to help you plan an Autism-friendly event or space, check out Autism NZ’s resource page.