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

Half day Private Tour of Dunedin City Highlights and Peninsula Scenery 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...

Full-Day Ships Shore Excursions from Dunedin Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $45.00 per person The full-day trip, conducted by a historic double-decker bus has a great range of stops including Otago Museum, Baldwin Street, Dunedin Botanic Gardens and much more. Discover New Zealand's only castle and learn more about this beautiful city. It can be combined with others tours such as Cadbury World or the Speight's Brewery Tour. The tour starts and ends at Port Chalmer and includes the ticket admission for special attractions as well as commentary on the bus and 15 people are required at... More...

Shore Excursion: Dunedin Highlights Small-Group Tour 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...

Dunedin and Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour with Optional Larnach Castle Visit 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...

Small Group 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 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...