The Gardens

We visit Larnarch Castle primarily for the gardens but give you the option of going inside to view the restored interior. Built in 1871 it has magnificent architecture, superb craftsmanship and a scandalous history.

Originally NZ was joined to Antarctica, Africa, S.America, Australia, Madagascar and India. The huge continent was known as Gondwana land.

85 million years ago NZ naturally broke away before the evolution of any primitive animals could take place. NZ became a sanctuary for birds, many flightless and clothed in primitive plants. 81% of the species found in NZ are found nowhere else. These plants are not full of bright flowers rather they have intriguing foliage, ancient roots and grandeur.

Little of the temperate rainforest remains on the Otago Peninsula because it was cleared by the early Europeans for farming. Our visit to Lanarch Castle is a great introduction to many of these species. A lifetime has been spent by the Baxter family creating paths, lawns and other magnificent gardens for visitors to enjoy.