Matt and I recently returned from a holiday in New Zealand. The initial impetus for the trip was a conference I wanted to attend at the University of Otago in Dunedin, but it was also a good opportunity to see some of Matt's family and to do some sight-seeing together.
As part of the conference, we had the option to participate in an excursion to Larnarch Castle (or "the camp", as it was known by its original owner.) It was almost worth it just for the bus trip up to the castle - some really lovely views of Dunedin and entertaining commentary from the bus driver. The tour of the castle was fascinating, though a little sad - the story of the family who originally built the castle was rather tragic. The castle was purchased in 1967 by a couple called the Barkers. It was in a state of complete disrepair, but Margaret Barker lovingly and painstakingly restored the house and the grounds.
After a tour of the house and climbing the tower, we had tea, scones and shortbread in the ballroom, and then wandered through the beautiful gardens.
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| View from the tower - a hazy shade of Dunedin |
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| "The Camp" |
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| Thistle |
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