Oceania · New Zealand · Otago
Larnach Castle
The story
History of Larnach Castle
New Zealand's only castle, built by merchant William Larnach on the Otago Peninsula above harbour and rolling hills.
New Zealand · Otago · Gothic Revival
- Built
- from 1871
- Era
- Revival
- Style
- Gothic Revival
- Country
- New Zealand
- Region
- Otago
- UNESCO
- —
- Coordinates
- -45.863, 170.626
In depth
The fuller history
Larnach Castle was built as the private residence of William James Mudie Larnach. Land for the construction of Larnach Castle was purchased in 1870, and prominent Dunedin architect R.A. Lawson was selected to design the Gothic Revival mansion. The site was clear-felled and levelled, allowing construction to begin in 1871. To level the construction site, workers jammed pegs into the layers of volcanic rock before pouring cold salt water to split the surface. Approximately 200 workmen were used to complete the main structure, using imported materials from around the world.
Throughout the twentieth century Larnach Castle went through constant changes of ownership and usage. The building fell into disrepair, and in 1967 was bought by Barry and Margaret Barker. Norcombe Barker became Larnach Castle Executive Director in 1990. Significant restoration work has since been carried out by the Barker family, along with retrieval of original furniture to refurnish the house. The gardens, which were not an original feature of William Larnach's home, have been awarded "Garden of International Significance" status by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.
Key dates
- 1870Land for the construction of Larnach Castle was purchased in 1870, and prominent Dunedin architect R.A.
- 1871The site was clear-felled and levelled, allowing construction to begin in 1871.
- 1887The addition of the 3000 square foot ballroom was completed in 1887 as a 21st birthday present for Larnach's eldest daughter Kate.
- 1906Following bitter legal battles over Larnach's will, the Larnach family sold the house in 1906.
- 1967Since 1967, the castle has been privately owned by the Barker family, and opened as a tourist attraction, as "New Zealand's only castle".
- 1990Norcombe Barker became Larnach Castle Executive Director in 1990.
Historical summary drawn from Wikipedia. Read the full article.
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