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...

Dunedin Shore Excursion: Dunedin and Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour with Optional Larnach Castle Visit Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $193.00 per person While you’re in port in Dunedin, explore the history and landscapes of the Otago Peninsula on this 7.5-hour tour. Travel through Dunedin as a guide points out local landmarks including Baldwin Street and the historic railway station. Stroll among the flowerbeds of the pretty Larnach Castle gardens, and upgrade to include entry to Larnach Castle — where New Zealand’s Victorian history comes to life. Then, head along the Otago Peninsula — home to native albatross, fur seals, penguins, and sea... More...

Otago Peninsula package from Dunedin incl. Larnach Castle - full day Day Tour - Dunedin - Starting from NZ $275.00 per person This premier tour of the Otago Peninsula includes the full Otago Harbour and Taiaroa Head Wildlife Cruise, scenic Otago Peninsula bus tour, and guided tours of the Royal Albatross Colony, the Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve, a visit to wading bird habitats, and Larnach Castle. Cruise the length of the beautiful Otago Harbour before embarking on an exploration of Taiaroa Head's spectacular wildlife a scenic Otago Peninsula bus tour. An unforgettable experience awaits; be fascinated and... 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...

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...