Head Guide

Lead Exceptional Visitor Experiences at New Zealand's Castle

Are you a natural storyteller with a passion for people, history and delivering exceptional customer experiences?

Larnach Castle, is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Head Guide to lead our guiding and guest services team. This is an exciting opportunity to combine leadership, tourism and heritage in one of Dunedin's most unique visitor attractions.

As Head Guide, you will play a key role in bringing the fascinating history of Larnach Castle to life while leading a team dedicated to creating memorable experiences for visitors from around the world.

About the Role

Reporting to the Castle Manager, you will provide day-to-day leadership and coordination of our Tour Guides and General Assistants, ensuring every visitor receives a warm welcome and outstanding service.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and supporting the guiding and frontline guest services team.
• Delivering engaging guided tours and historical storytelling.
• Coaching, training and developing team members.
• Coordinating daily operations across the Castle entrance, gatehouse and visitor areas.
• Ensuring exceptional service standards and visitor satisfaction.
• Supporting tour operators, group bookings and special visitor requests.
• Contributing ideas to enhance the visitor experience and operational excellence.
• Promoting a positive culture focused on teamwork, professionalism and hospitality.

What We're Looking For

You will be a confident communicator who enjoys inspiring both guests and colleagues. You'll bring a genuine interest in tourism, heritage and customer service, along with the ability to motivate and support a team.

To be successful, you'll ideally have:

• Experience in tourism, hospitality or customer service.
• Previous leadership, supervisory or training experience.
• Strong public speaking and storytelling abilities.
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Confidence using computer-based systems and point-of-sale technology.
• A professional, positive and adaptable approach.
• Availability to work weekends and public holidays as required.
• Knowledge of Dunedin's tourism industry and local history.
• Additional language skills advantageous.

Why Join Larnach Castle?

• Work at one of New Zealand's most iconic heritage and tourism destinations.

• Share fascinating stories with visitors from around the world.

• Enjoy a varied role combining leadership, visitor engagement and operational responsibility.

• Be part of a family-owned business dedicated to preserving and showcasing an important piece of New Zealand history.

• Work in a stunning and unique setting with some of the best views in Dunedin.

• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the organisation.

• Staff discounts across Larnach Castle's accommodation, food and beverage and retail offerings.

• Supportive and collaborative team culture where your ideas and initiative are valued.

• Every day is different, with opportunities to engage with people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds.

• Free onsite parking.

• Competitive remuneration aligned with experience and skills.

Apply Now

If you're passionate about creating memorable visitor experiences, leading people and bringing history to life, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now with your CV and cover letter outlining why you're the ideal candidate for the Head Guide position at Larnach Castle.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received.