Larnach Castle, Dunedin, NZ

On the Otago Peninsula, just outside of Dunedin (New Zealand) is a castle.

Yes…a castle… way out here on the south end of New Zealand.

Welcome to Larnach Castle.

Built in the late 1800’s, this was the home of the Larnach family. William Larnach was a rather special man, a man I would have liked to meet.  Our brochure says this about him.

…one of New Zealand’s most remarkable men. A successful landowner, Minister of the Crown, banker, financier and merchant Baron, Larnach’s lasting legacy was his great Castle overlooking the spectacular Otago Harbour.

 Aside: There is much more to his story…complete with interesting twists and tragic turns…but you will have to visit and let the tour guides tell you the rest of the story.

Everything about the house was first class.

 Every detail was attended to.

Every modern convenience was installed (remember this was the 1870’s).

But most of all it was a family house, built with love.

 

Artifacts (and our excellent tour guide) help create an accurate picture of life in that era.

 

After the tour our group was invited  to have tea in the Ballroom Cafe. One of the guides poured tea and we drank from Larnach Castle tea cups.

Hint: Click on any photo to enlarge it.

Ah, you noticed she is wearing a Scottish tartan.

Yes, like many things and people around Dunedin, Lanarch was a Scotsman.

Scones and jam, anyone?

Oh, ye must try the shortbread!

And you MUST join us in the gardens.

The gardens are one of four Gardens of National Significance in New Zealand…

and they are lovely! Click here.