While the castle itself is a marvel of Victorian architecture, the Larnach Castle Gardens are the true soul of the estate. Recognized as a "Garden of International Significance," these grounds offer a curated journey through New Zealand’s botanical beauty.
Dunedin isn't just the "Edinburgh of the South"—it’s arguably the wildlife capital of New Zealand. Our recent trek to the Otago Peninsula felt less like a sightseeing tour and more like stepping into a high-production nature documentary.
From the secluded beaches of the OPERA (Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance) to the windswept cliffs of Taiaroa Head, here’s a look at the incredible locals we met.
Our journey began at the OPERA penguin preserve. If you’re looking for the world’s rarest penguin, this is their sanctuary. The Hoiho (Yellow-eyed penguin) is famously shy, but the preserve’s clever system of hidden trenches allowed us to get an intimate look without disturbing them.
The Vibe: Seeing that distinct pale yellow band across their eyes is a "pinch-me" moment.
Fun Fact: Unlike most penguins, Hoiho are solitary nesters—they prefer a little backyard privacy over a crowded colony. We were able to see several in the "hospital". Check out the feet in the photo below. They are incredibly strong because they hop/climb up hills to their nests in the forest far up from the beach.
We caught the Kororā (Little Blue Penguins) at a very specific time in their life cycle: molting season. Instead of the famous evening "waddle" up the beach after a day of fishing, we found them tucked away, looking like oversized, disgruntled pom-poms. We had a peak at one under a tree.
Dotted along the rocky coastline, we spotted several Kekeno (New Zealand Fur Seals). Most were lazily draped over the rocks, blending in so perfectly with the landscape that you’d miss them if they didn't occasionally flip a flipper in the air.
Pro Tip: Keep your distance! They may look like sleepy logs, but they can move surprisingly fast when they want to.
To top off the day, we headed to the very tip of the peninsula: Taiaroa Head. This is the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross in the world.
Watching a bird with a 9-10 ft wingspan catch the thermal drafts and glide effortlessly over the ocean is a humbling experience. They are the true kings of the Southern Ocean, spending most of their lives at sea before returning to these specific cliffs to raise their young. We got a peak at a baby under it's mother.