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Larnach Castle
Built between 1871 and 1886 for local businessman and politician William
Larnach, this unique manor house could only be found in Dunedin. The house's
Scottish Baronial style is juxtaposed with large ornate verandahs skirting
its stone walls, a very colonial touch. Bought by the Barker family in 1967,
the homestead and its surrounding gardens have been lovingly restored and
opened to the public. Its striking peninsula location, beautiful architecture
and famous gardens make Larnach Castle one of Dunedin's premiere attractions.
The Castle
Sometimes known as Larnach's Castle, construction began in 1871
and took three years and over 200 workmen to complete. The interior was
crafted by masters from Europe, who spent 12 years carving and embellishing
its 43 rooms with the finest materials from around the world; Italian marble,
glass from Venice and France, Welsh slate for the roof, and floor tiles from
England. The house was finished with richly coloured native New Zealand woods,
and is today the house is decorated with a large collection of antique New
Zealand furniture.
The Gardens
The gardens are the creation of owner Margaret Barker, a collection of
eight theme gardens ranging from primitive native rainforest to period-style
formal gardens that showcase both native and exotic plants. The South Seas
Garden, planted with some of New Zealand's most unique fauna from its coasts
and off-shore Islands, has spectacular views over the Otago Peninsula and
across the Harbour; from Port Chalmers all the way out to Taiaroa Head. The
various gardens come into their own in different seasons, so there's something
new to discover all year round.
How to get to Larnach Castle
Many tours around the Otago Peninsula include a visit to Larnach Castle.
Both guided and self-guided tours are also available, with admission on
entry. Below are directions to get to Larnach Castle from Dunedin’s city
centre, The Octagon:
Featured Larnach Castle Tours & Activities |
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Castle - Dunedin - Starting from $34.00 per person
Visit New Zealand’s only Castle, situated on the dramatic Otago Peninsula and only a 20 minute drive from Dunedin. Learn about the colonial history and stories of William Larnach - entrepreneur and politician, plus ongoing restoration by the Barker family. Experience the finest Victorian craftsmanship, the excellent collection of New Zealand antiques and unparalleled views of the Otago Peninsula. Walk in the gardens rated a garden of International significance by NZGT. Take refreshment in the... More... |
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Historic - Dunedin - Starting from $145.00 per person
Enjoy a personalized small group tour of Larnach Castle and Dunedin City. This is a 6 to 7 hour fully guided tour that lets you explore Dunedin and Larnach Castle at a leisurely pace. Included is a fully guided tour of Larnach Castle's unique interior. Light refreshments and chilled water are included.
The tour takes in many interesting buildings and landmarks in Dunedin city such as the Larnach family tomb, the old University and all the main city attractions. The drive to Larnach Castle... More... |
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Private Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $500.00 per person
Enjoy Dunedin on a private tour, tailored just for your group of up to 6 passengers. A knowledgeable driver - guide will show you the best spots in Dunedin in a private vehicle. You will be very flexible to spend any amount of time at all the stops.
Scenic drive from Port Chalmers through the countryside road to the city. Suggested stops are: Baldwin Street, Signal Hill Lookout Point, upper Botanic Garden with bird aviaries, Otago University, Octagon, First Church, Dunedin Railway station,... More... |
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Castle - Christchurch - Starting from $135.00 per person
An unique opportunity to experience the very best Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula has to offer. This tour combines sightseeing of Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula with a guided tour of Larnach Castle and its grounds. Also included are Dunedin’s Chinese Gardens and the Otago Early Settlers Museum. More... |
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Castle - Dunedin - Starting from $250.00 per person
Enjoy breathtaking scenery of Dunedin, Otago Peninsula, Taieri Gorge and the garden of the only New Zealand's castle on a 7 hour tour departing from Port Chalmers.
With amazing views guaranteed, this tour includes a 4 hour return train trip to Taieri Gorge. Enjoy a scenic transfer from Port Chalmers to Dunedin Railway station, a spectacular 19th-century Renaissance revival style train station. From here you will climb aboard the Taieri Gorge train, which travels through ten tunnels and over... More... |
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Tour Dunedin
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Tour Dunedin Area
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 Possums' End - Apartment. Located in Portobello in the Otago region, Possums' End features a patio and sea views. The air-conditioned...
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Dunedin's only locally owned and operated daily trip to Larnach Castle - Maori - Dunedin. Starting from $95.00 per person. 
