Larnach Castle Ltd general manager Paul Phelan said opening the tourist attraction on Christmas Day had been a "great success", and it had been one of the castle’s busiest days of the year.
Mr Phelan said that ‘‘huge credit’’ for the positive outcome went to 45 staff who had hosted more than 15 busloads of cruise ship passengers.
"It’s part of the responsibility in tourism and hospitality to be able to host people on any day of the year," Mr Phelan said.
A large marquee had been set up this year, providing more space, and shelter for 65 visitors at a time.
"The best thing about it was people hosting people and enjoying a special day with visitors and staff."
People had flocked to the castle not only by bus, but also by taxi, and some Dunedin families had also driven up for lunch to take a break from festivities in town, he said.
Ensuring that the castle remained open was ultimately "good for Dunedin", and he had received "fantastic feedback" from visitors.
Mr Phelan, who donned a Santa suit and rang a welcoming bell throughout the day, said it had been great to "make people’s Christmas special".
