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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 |
Day Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $185.00 per person
Enjoy a full-day tour experiencing lovely Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula. You will see all the city highlights before journeying along the Otago Peninsula, which is full of wildlife and the majestic Larnach Castle. Included in the price is a tour at Penguin Place, the wild habitat of the rare yellow-eyed penguins. Your knowledgeable local guide has many stories of the area and knows all the best spots and vantage points along the way. There is plenty of time to chat and enjoy the... More... |
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Maori - Dunedin - Starting from $145.00 per person
Dunedin Onshore Cruise Tours for your small group of up to six or 11. Heritage and Wildlife abounds and enjoy a personal and fun tour with you local chauffeur/guide.
Dunedin welcomes you to the delightful Port Chalmers and the many unique aspects on your special day tour. Whatever your interests surround yourself with the Scottish feel of this region.
Your Chauffeur will take you on a historical journey of beautiful landscapes, stunning Port Chalmers high top views and... More... |
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Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $110.00 per person
Make the most of your time on this half-day "Highlights" small group, personal tour. You will see and learn about Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula with your own guide, including entry to the grounds of historic Larnach Castle. More... |
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Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $225.00 per person
Start at Port Chalmers to experience the pure beauty of Dunedin on a fantastic tour of rich heritage, spectacular scenery. In addition you will join a 90 minute return coastal train trip. You will experience memorable landscape of Otago Peninsula with amazing string of rugged beaches, bays. Your knowledgeable guide will show you the most breathtaking views. Your tour will include an entry to the garden of the only castle of New Zealand - Larnach castle. You will stop at the world's steepest... More... |
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Sightseeing Cruise - Dunedin - Starting from NZ $125.00 per person
An unforgettable experience awaits, the highlight of your Dunedin visit! Enjoy a fully guided tour of New Zealand's only castle, Larnach Castle, built in 1871, followed by a Wildlife cruise on NZ's most picturesque harbour and peninsula with Monarch Wildlife Cruises.
Be fascinated and exhilarated with the wealth of wildlife, dramatic views, so close, so natural - the only way to see it all - Otago Peninsula, Otago Harbour, Taiaroa Head with three time New Zealand Tourism Award winners... More... |
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Tour Dunedin
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Tour Dunedin Area
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Dunedin City, Wildlife and Scenery Tour - Maori. Starting from $119.00 per person. Explore spectacular Dunedin city and Otago Peninsula on this full-day small group tour (6 people Max). Visit Baldwin St...
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