Guided Tours at other times
Exclusive one hour guided tours providing greater detail of either the Castle and its history, or the development and creation of the gardens. Advanced booking required.
Add $220 per guide to the standard admission prices here.
Illustrated Presentations by Margaret Barker and Norcombe Barker
Margaret and her late husband, Barry Barker, purchased Larnach Castle in 1967. At that time it was empty, derelict in overgrown grounds. The efforts of the Barker family and many staff over the years, have re created Larnach Castle to become the show place it is today.
The Barker family's additional passion was to create a beautiful garden on this stunning and historical site. The garden is now recognized by NZGT as a Garden of International Significance.
Margaret, an experienced speaker both in New Zealand and overseas, is delighted to give illustrated presentations on the following topics.
Larnach Castle. Its Life and Times
The life of William Larnach, builder of Larnach Castle, from his birth in Australia to his death in New Zealand's House of Representatives. A story of triumph and tragedy. Larnach Castle has been a part of many people's lives for more than 140 years. This presentation illustrates the history of the Castle from its very beginnings to the present day, a tapestry of the Castle's life, times and people.
The Garden at Larnach Castle
The creation of the garden at Larnach Castle on its splendid site over a period of forty years. The concepts, landscaping, design and plantings are elucidated with stunning photography. This talk is interwoven with the life, travels and influences of Margaret, its creator, and her family and staff involved in its evolution.
Plants of the Southern Hemisphere
A joy for the plant lover, this talk illustrates southern hemisphere plants Margaret has photographed mainly growing in the wild. These have been seen in her travels to Australia, New Caledonia, around New Zealand, Lord Howe Island, Chile, Brazil, Argentina and the Sub Antarctic islands. This presentation includes photographs of new World design in South America.