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

Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour Wildlife - Dunedin - Starting from $193.00 per person See the highlights of Dunedin’s city center and Larnach Castle in the morning, then spend the afternoon immersed in the natural beauty of the Otago Peninsula. Visit the nesting grounds of the rare and endangered yellow-eyed penguin and northern royal albatross as you explore the scenic coast along Taiaroa Head. Small-group tour with a maximum of 19 people allows for personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide. More...

Castle and Wildlife Cruise - Half Day 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...

Dunedin Shore Excursion: Dunedin Sightseeing, Larnach Castle and Cadburys Chocolate Factory Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $145.00 per person An unique opportunity to experience the very best Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula has to offer with a shore excursion combining a visit to the famous Cadbury`s Chocolate factory and their new Cadbury world experience with tastings of course. You will then travel out onto the Otago Peninsula for a guided tour of Larnach Castle and its grounds, as well as a sightseeing tour through Dunedin City taking in the highlights of the city with an entertaining and informative commentary. More...

Full-Day Larnach Castle Tour Historic - Dunedin - Starting from $145.00 per person Enjoy a personalized small-group tour of Larnach Castle and Dunedin City. This is a 7-hour fully guided tour that lets you explore Dunedin and Larnach Castle at a leisurely pace. At the end of the tour you will be driven right back to your cruise ship in plenty of time (at least 1 hour prior to ship's departure). The tour takes in many interesting buildings and landmarks in Dunedin city such as the Larnach family tomb in Dunedin's old Northern Cemetery, the old University and all the main city... More...

Admission Ticket to New Zealand's only Castle: Larnach Castle Castle - Dunedin - Starting from $31.00 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... More...