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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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Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $199.00 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... |
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Private Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $750.00 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 comfortable van. You will be very flexible and can spend any amount of time at all the stops.
There is an option fo a bigger group too.
Scenic drive through the city and on Otago Peninsula to view the most breathtaking views. You will enjoy a stop at Royal Albatross Centre (about 1 hour), the world's only mainland... More... |
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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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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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Photography Tour - Queenstown - Starting from $4495.00 per person
Join Richard Young and Dave Buckton on a 7-day tour showcasing some of New Zealand’s rarest wildlife and most distinctive coastal landscapes. New Zealand’s underrated East Coast is full of surprises that include fossilised forests, curious boulders, outstanding coastal scenery and a huge diversity of rare wildlife: penguins, sea lions, fur seals and albatross.
Starting in Queenstown, the tour the travels through the Catlins Coastal Rainforest Park, with opportunities to... More... |
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Tour Dunedin
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Tour Dunedin Area
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 Captain Eady's Lookout - Bed and Breakfast. Located in Portobello, 3.1 km from New Zealand Marine Studies Centre, Captain Eady's Lookout provides accommodation...
 Castle and Wildlife Cruise - Half Day - Sightseeing Cruise - Dunedin. Starting from NZ $125.00 per person. Enjoy a fully guided tour of New Zealand's only castle, followed by a Wildlife cruise with Monarch Wildlife Cruises.
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