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's only locally owned and operated daily trip to Larnach Castle Maori - Dunedin - Starting from $95.00 per person We are Dunedin's only locally owned and operated Larnach Castle tour ensuring that your money will stay inside of Dunedin rather than go to out of town corporate businesses. We are also the longest of the tours going to Larnach Castle which means you get more time to explore the Castle and grounds. Included as standard is a comprehensive tour of Dunedin City and we will fill you in on all that you will ever need to know about this NZ icon and the backstory that makes it so... More...

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 (steepest street in the world), the University of Otago and Dunedin’s famous Scottish heritage sites. Then we will travel alongside the picturesque Otago harbour and head across to Sandfly Bay to spot local wildlife. Lunch is taken at the beautiful and historic Larnach Castle. We then journey to the rugged coastline and a visit to unique Tunnel Beach. More...

Dunedin Onshore Cruise Group Tour 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...

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...

Shore Excursion: Taieri Gorge Train and Otago Peninsula Scenery & Castle Garden Castle - Dunedin - Starting from $250.00 per person Enjoy breathtaking scenery of Dunedin, Otago Peninsula, Taieri Gorge and the garden of the only New Zealand's castle on a 7 hour tour departing from Port Chalmers. With amazing views guaranteed, this tour includes a 4 hour return train trip to Taieri Gorge. Enjoy a scenic transfer from Port Chalmers to Dunedin Railway station, a spectacular 19th-century Renaissance revival style train station. From here you will climb aboard the Taieri Gorge train, which travels through ten tunnels and over... More...