Best of Dunedin: Taieri Gorge by Train & Larnach Castle

9 hours | Dunedin (Port Chalmers) | P C 3 - 1 0 0
Average Guest Rating
From
$ 329.95
Exceptional Value

Exceptional Value

Exceptional Value

Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.

Points of Interest

  • Otago Harbour & Peninsula
  • Taieri Gorge Railway
  • Larnach Castle
  • Dunedin Train Station
Includes meal, Moderate activity

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:

Taieri Gorge Railway
It's all aboard on a thrilling journey through the remote mountain scenery of the Taieri River Gorge. Travel in the comfort of vintage or contemporary carriages, fully enclosed with heating. The heritage carriages date back to the 1920s and feature opening sash windows and wooden trim, while modern carriages feature panoramic windows. The trains are pulled by classic 1960s DJ diesel electric locomotives. Lively onboard commentary is an opportunity to learn the fascinating lore of the central Otago region.

Larnach Castle
Built between 1873 and 1877, this magnificent neo-Gothic estate was built for William and Eliza Larnach and their six children by renowned architect Robert Arthur Larson and commands the highest point on the Otago Peninsula. Approximately 200 men spent three years building the shell of the 40,000-square-foot mansion overlooking Dunedin, Otago Harbour and the Otago Peninsula. Then a team of European craftsmen stepped in to finish the interior, including a 3,000-square-foot ballroom added for the 21st birthday of Larnach's favorite daughter, with a lavish array of masterful embellishments. (Note: no interior photography permitted.)

What you will see along the way:
Settle into your railway car and gaze out the window as you journey across magnificent stone and wrought iron viaducts and bridges, gasping at the sheer drops to the river below. Plunge into 10 tunnels with the schist rock walls only inches from the side of the train. The track glides across awesome Wingatui Viaduct, a marvel of 1880s construction that remains the largest wrought iron structure in New Zealand. By motorcoach, travel through Dunedin, past Otago Harbour and surrounding farmland, to arrive at the magnificent Larnach Castle.

Photo Opportunity:
Dunedin Railway Station
Dunedin Railway Station is the grandest "gingerbread house" you'll ever see. Nicknamed "Gingerbread George" after its architect, George Troup, this elaborately decorated building boasts a mosaic floor of almost 750,000 porcelain tiles, among many ornate embellishments.

Snack/Lunch:
Enjoy Dunedin's own iconic tea blends or coffee accompanied by a ginger biscuit for your morning beverage. Your picnic lunch, is also served aboard the train. Sample menu includes fresh focaccia roll, New Zealand gruyere, salad greens, roasted vegetable pasta salad with a basil pesto dressing, freshly baked raspberry and almond Friand Artisan Otago 'Whitestone' Brie cheese with wheat crackers and corn chips. Beverages include water, soft drinks and orange Juice. Local beer and wine are available to purchase.

Special Notes:

Passengers may be required to walk approximately 150 feet to board the train. There are four steep steps up into carriages. The train and motorcoach transportation are not air-conditioned.

Larnach Castle and the motorcoach to the Castle are not wheelchair accessible. Passengers confined to wheelchairs should book tour PC3-226 - Taieri Gorge by Train (Wheelchair Confined Passengers).

Photography is not permitted inside Larnach Castle.

Child Price:

12 years & under only

Details

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Depart from ship for a train ride aboard the Taieri Gorge Railway

Transport type:
Train
Time at site:
05:15
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
No
Walking distance:
100
Steps:
4
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Guests depart train and board coaches at Train Station

Time at site:
00:30
Photo/video restrictions:
Yes

Coaches Depart Train Station for City Sights Circuit

Transport type:
Motorcoach
Travel time:
00:45

Guided tour of Larnach Castle

Time at site:
01:15

Re-board your motorcoach and return to your ship via short City sights

Transport type:
Motorcoach
Travel time:
01:15