Our accommodations tonight are near beautiful Lake Te Anau and the hotel simulates a rustic village, with rooms named for the businesses you would have found there.
my room at Te Anau
Fortunately I am not required to use my utterly inconsiderable skills as a fire brigade member--I just get to sleep in the cute building. I am more interested in Goldfields Law Enforcement and Lock Up. 'Goldfield' was not a person's name, but the origin of this area's growth and development. More on that later.
Te Anau Lake at night
At dusk, the tranquil lake and mountains in the distance, make a peaceful, low-key ending to a full day.
Early in the morning, we’re off to the Otago peninsula and Dunedin. I want to call it Dune-din, but the correct pronunciation, in keeping with its Scottish heritage, is Dun-Eden. The rolling green landscape is striking, but what's striking me even more is that it looks like it’s going to be another cloudy/rainy day. :(
Fields to Lanarch
We stop at Lanarch Castle, the only castle in New Zealand. Now it's a hotel, sightseeing destination, and event venue. William Lanarch, originally from Australia, pursued his career in business and banking to New Zealand, following the path of the1860s gold rush. His business interests expanded, and with them, his wealth. He began construction of the castle in 1871 for his first wife, Eliza. Two hundred workmen spent three years building the shell and European craftsmen spent another twelve years embellishing the interior.
Three happy tourists on the steps to the Lanarch entry
Lanarch Grounds (above and below)
In spite of his good luck in business, Lanarch’s personal life was beset with tragedy. His first wife died at 38; he married her younger sister who also died at 38. Lanarch married again, but not long after, his favorite daughter died in her twenties. The patriarch then sent five of his children to England for their education, adding great gaps to the already tragic family relationships. In 1898, Lanarch committed suicide leaving no will. Legal battles ensued; ultimately the family sold the castle in 1906.
Lanarch Pergola
We take some time to enjoy the grounds, the castle, and the elaborate life-style that money can buy (in place of happiness?)
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