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Discover New Zealand’s only castle, Larnarch Castle, built 1871 by William Larnach, merchant baron and politician, for his beloved first wife Eliza. 200 workmen spent three years building the Castle shell and master European craftsmen spent a furthur 12 years embellishing the interior. Larnach spared no expense on his dream home, which features the finest materials from around the world.

With its exciting, sometimes scandalous, sometimes tragic history, its magnificent carved ceilings, New Zealand antiques and breathtaking views, Larnach Castle offers you a vision of the past and present.

The Castle is still privately owned and cared for by the Barker family. The family have spent more than thirty five years lovingly restoring the building and recreating the beauty of the 35 acres of gardens and grounds.

Visitors can enjoy exploring the Castle and the beautiful gardens, now an attraction in their own right. Original antiques grace the building and the family has amassed a unique collection of New Zealand furniture. A Lodge with individually decorated theme rooms has been built so that guests may stay on the property, waking up to spectacular views. The Stables have been restored and have bedrooms with share bathrooms. Guests can experience sleeping quarters a lot more comfortable than Larnach's stable boys did 130 years ago!

Weddings, balls, functions and celebrations are held in the beautiful 3000 square foot ballroom.

Below are the visitor options available:

Option One: Castle self-guided tour
Entry to Castle including the tower, cafe in the ballroom, gift shop, Castle gardens, grounds, historic stable and Castle outbuildings. Informative brochure provided. Plus garden maps.
Open 9am - 5pm daily except Christmas day.

Option Two: Gardens self-guided tour
Entry to Castle gardens, grounds, historic stable, Castle outbuildings and cafe in Castle Ballroom. Colour Garden map, native plant trail map provided.
Open 9am - 7pm from October until Easter, 9am - 5pm from Easter - September.

Option Three: Stay at Lanarch Lodge
Please visit their website for further information.

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