Perched proudly on the ridge of the stunning Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle is a fascinating piece of history and offers a peek into Victorian culture.
Built in 1871 by William Larnach, a Merchant Banker and Politician, the castle showcases outstanding craftsmanship, New Zealand antiques, and the Victorian way of life.
How many Castles are there in NZ?
There are two notable castles in the vicinity: Larnach Castle and Cargill’s Castle. Larnach Castle is celebrated for its meticulously kept grounds, making it the more popular of the two. On the other hand, Cargill’s Castle currently stands in majestic disrepair, evoking a strong sense of historical grandeur.
And for those seeking even more castle adventures, Riverstone Castle is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Oamaru!
The Drama of Larnach Castle
There is always an intriguing and dramatic backstory behind any castle’s impressive and stunning architecture. While some castles may outshine others, each possesses its unique charm and allure.
Who was William Larnach?
William James Mudie Larnach was born on January 27, 1833, in New South Wales, Australia. He joined the Bank of New South Wales in 1850 after some experiences in gold-digging and farming.
He became a branch manager in Victoria and received valuable support from his uncle and influential acquaintances. On June 21, 1859, he married Eliza Jane Guise in Brighton, Melbourne.
Larnach wasn’t interested in politics and saw business as his true passion. He was involved in various business activities in Dunedin and was well-known in Melbourne. However, while he was popular with some, some of Dunedin society viewed him with suspicion or hostility.
His peers knew he had a changeable character, with a strong instinct to display material success and conceal any weakness or self-doubt.
When and Why did he move to Dunedin?
In 1866, Larnach left his position in Geelong and became the general manager of the struggling Bank of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. Confident in his ability to turn the bank around, he quickly made plans to build his famous residence, Larnach’s Castle, which he moved into in 1874.
The three Wives
Larnach faced hardship when his wife passed away in 1880. After her death, he married her half-sister, Mary Cockburn Alleyne, in 1882.
Mary had been close to him even before his first wife died. Unfortunately, Mary passed away in 1887.
Later, in 1891, Larnach married Constance de Bathe Brandon, the daughter of a Wellington solicitor, at St Paul’s Church in Wellington.
The Business, Politics and Suicide…
In the mid-1870s, Larnach heavily invested in land and entered the timber and hardware business with Walter Guthrie in 1873. The business, later incorporated as Guthrie and Larnach’s New Zealand Timber and Woodware Factories Company, became the largest employer in the colony.
Larnach had financial difficulties during his successful career. He went into politics in 1875, held various government positions, and became Minister of Mines in 1885. Known for his practical jokes and speaking directly, he took his life at the Parliament Buildings on October 12, 1898. Larnach’s estate was valued at less than £5,000. He left behind three daughters and two sons from his first marriage, and he was deeply troubled by the situation of his favorite daughter, Kate.
Thank you for reading!