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

PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION: SHOWCASE OF DUNEDIN NZ Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $795.00 per person A SPECIAL SHOWCASE OF DUNEDIN HIGHLIGHTS IS CREATED FOR YOUR TIME ONSHORE Dunedin is famous for New Zealand’s finest heritage and cultural icons, spectacular breath-taking ocean and mountain views, beautiful gardens and city cafes. New Zealand’s amazing hot spots in Dunedin and surrounds provides you with a variety of options that can be made to a custom style day of memories. The itinerary for you is designed with plenty of allowance... 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...

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...

Larnach Castle & Gardens Admission Ticket 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...

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...