Baldwin Street, Dunedin

Baldwin Street, located in the city of Dunedin, New Zealand, holds the unique distinction of being the steepest residential street in the world according to the Guinness World Records. This remarkable street stretches over a relatively short distance, but what it lacks in length, it more than compensates for in its sheer incline.

The street's gradient reaches a staggering 35% at its steepest point, which has made it a must-see attraction for visitors to Dunedin. Baldwin Street rises from its junction with North Road in the valley below to the crest of Signal Hill. Its steepness is a result of urban planning that did not account for the region's hilly terrain, leading to its unconventional and challenging slope.

Residents of Baldwin Street are accustomed to the attention their address receives, and the street has become a popular spot for events that test endurance and agility, such as the annual Baldwin Street Gutbuster race. This event sees participants race up and down the street, pushing their physical limits against the punishing gradient.

For tourists, a walk up Baldwin Street is a rite of passage and a chance to capture a photograph at the steepest part of the slope, often with the road's surface appearing impossibly inclined in the background. The street also features steps alongside the steepest sections for the convenience and safety of pedestrians.

Despite its steepness, Baldwin Street is fully paved and has houses lining both sides, with residents enjoying the fame brought by their unique location. It is accessible to the public year-round, and those who reach the top are rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and impressive views of the surrounding suburbs.