Larnach Castle

One of Dunedin’s great strength’s is the way it values its heritage. The cultural connection felt is profound, especially considering how young the city is by global-standards. An example of this attachment to heritage and culture can be seen in the prized Larnach Castle.  

New Zealand’s only castle, the merchant baron and politician William Larnach built the exemplar of fortified beauty in the name of perpetual love for his first wife, Eliza in 1871. Nestled in the hills above the Dunedin harbour, the castle took 15 years in total to complete with the latter 12 years being dedicated to the bedizened interior. Qualmark endorsed concern and continually acknowledged in Tourism awards, the Larnach Castle experience caters for the discerning visitor through guided tours, as well as corporate groups and wedding functions in its immaculate surrounding grounds of 14 hectares.  

In keeping with the theme of the finest, the grounds have recently this year been the subject of New Zealand Gardens Trust recognition as a ‘Garden of International Significance’ – only the forth in the country and the first in the South Island to receive such an honour.  

The Barker family have had the outstanding property for just over 40 years, and have radically transformed what was a run-down disaster site. Original antiques grace the building and meeting with the 3000 square foot Ballroom is euphoric in itself.  

Rumours of ghosts and many tales of scandal are sure to leave any inquirer seeking a real-life encounter with this magical relic of Dunedin history for themselves. The Larnach Castle team make this effortless and can provide accommodation in the Lodge on site with a boutique four-star rating, through to Castle visits (either guided or self-guided tour options).  

www.larnachcastle.co.nz 

145 Camp Road

Pukehiki, Otago 9014

(03) 476 1616