Heritage City and Larnach Castle Van tour with Historian Guide
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A tour with Gregor is like no other. Emerging business award finalist, Tales From Darkest Dunedin and Gregor Campbell, respected historian and expert story teller has been uncovering forgotten events and people in Dunedin's history. He has been featured in newspapers for his finds and recently on the cover of New Zealand Heritage Magazine for his cemetery tours. Gregor is particularly interested in colonial history, the exchanges between Māori Kāi Tahu, the Scottish and the everyday people that came to make a life here, for better or for worse. And now he's your tour guide!
Gregor's stories of murder, shipwrecks, discovery, heroes and villains are exclusive to Tales From Darkest Dunedin and weave together to give a greater picture of our city and the lives that brought it to where it is today.
Available options
Heritage City and Larnach Castle Van tour with Historian Guide
Pickup included
What's included
Local guide/driver
Hotel and cruise ship port pick up and drop off
Air-conditioned vehicle
Entry to Larnach Castle
Detailed itinerary
1
Starting the tour with a quick drive through the university, we see the original old buildings including the Marama Building with ornate features and an interesting story.
2
Drive through the beautiful Northern Cemetery and hear the stories of the famous and everyday people buried there. William Larnach's tomb is here and the architect who designed his properties and tomb among other notable Dunedin buildings.
3
Stop 3
The world's steepest street! Climb it, look at it, use the toilet facilities, tick it off your bucket list. Whatever you do, Gregor has some fascinating historical stories of the area that he's uncovered in his research.
4
The second most photographed building in the southern hemisphere (second to the Sydney Opera House). Go inside the foyer of the station with its Royal Doulton tiled walls and mosaic floor made with approximately half a million pieces.
5
Queens Gardens, where Dunedin's soldiers paraded before marching off to the Great War and where thousands gather annually to remember those who did not return.
6
High Street is where wealthy professionals built their large houses and consulting rooms, the surviving buildings are quite beautiful and deserve a look. Which then leads into the 'Devil's Half Acre'. An area of town that was known for mischief and tragedy.
7
Stop for lunch at Luna Bar and Restaurant. A little off the typical tourist track, Luna offers an incredible view of Dunedin, delicious food and a wonderful atmosphere. We come here to support local business and stay away from busy tourist areas. We hope you love it as much as we do! Lunch is not included in tour price.
The current lunch menu:
https://www.lunaroslyn.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/luna-lunch-menu-nov2022.pdf
8
Stop 8
Situated on the picturesque Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle is one of New Zealand’s premier visitor attractions. Lovingly restored by the Barker Family, the Castle and surrounding grounds are at the heart of the Dunedin visitor experience. Take a guided tour with your historian tour guide and learn of the tragic end to the Larnach family.
What's not included
We will stop at Luna Restaurant and Bar but it is not included in the price
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
44 reviews
5★
44
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Tripadvisor
5.0
20 reviews
5★
20
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We will have approximately 1h30 total driving time between pickup point, attractions and drop off.
Tour time can be altered to fit in your ship schedule
2 Person minimum for tour to go ahead. We will contact you if there is only one booking.
About Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula
Dunedin and The Otago Peninsula offer a unique blend of Scottish heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and abundant wildlife. This region is known for its dramatic cliffs, wildlife encounters, and historic architecture, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Top Attractions
Larnach Castle
Larnach Castle is a historic castle and garden that offers a glimpse into Dunedin's past. The castle is known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful gardens.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
Moderate
Royal Albatross Centre
The Royal Albatross Centre is the only mainland breeding colony of northern royal albatross in the world. Visitors can observe these magnificent birds up close.
Nature/Wildlife
1-2 hours
Moderate
Dunedin Botanic Gardens
Dunedin Botanic Gardens is one of the world's best botanical gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants, a winter garden, and a Japanese garden.
Nature/Gardens
1-2 hours
Free
Dunedin Chinese Garden
The Dunedin Chinese Garden is a beautiful and serene garden that celebrates the city's Chinese heritage. It features traditional Chinese architecture, plants, and water features.
Cultural/Historical
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan, contains meat and offal.
Whitebait Fritters
A New Zealand delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and fried into a fritter.
Lunch
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Venison
New Zealand is famous for its game meats, and venison is a popular choice, often served with seasonal vegetables and sauces.
Dinner
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Wildlife tours
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Beachcombing
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Dunedin is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Dunedin International Airport • 25 km from city center
By train
Dunedin Railway Station
By bus
Dunedin Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is affordable and convenient, with frequent departures and easy-to-use routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Octagon
St. Kilda
North East Valley
Day trips
Moeraki Boulders
100 km from Dunedin • Full day
The Moeraki Boulders are large, spherical boulders scattered along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. These unique geological formations are a must-see for nature lovers.
Catlins Coast
150 km from Dunedin • Full day or overnight
The Catlins Coast is a remote and rugged coastline known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife, including seals, penguins, and dolphins.
Central Otago Wine Region
200 km from Dunedin • Full day or overnight
The Central Otago Wine Region is known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and scenic drives.
Festivals
Dunedin Arts Festival • May
Dunedin Fringe Festival • March
Dunedin Winter Arts Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Royal Albatross Centre early in the morning for the best chance of seeing the albatross up close
- Book a guided tour of Larnach Castle to learn about its fascinating history and architecture
- Explore the Otago Peninsula by car or bike for a more immersive experience
- Visit the Dunedin Botanic Gardens in spring or summer for the best blooming flowers and scenic views
- Try local specialties like haggis, whitebait fritters, and venison for an authentic taste of Dunedin's cuisine
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
