Adrian Clifton started as the general manager of Dunedin’s only castle last month and said it was a "fantastic opportunity".
"I’m very excited to be part of the next chapter of Larnach Castle’s history.
"It holds a very special place in people’s hearts and minds."
Before taking on the new role he was the general manager at Scenic Hotel, in Dunedin, a job he held for eight years.
Before that he lived in Marlborough, working as area manager of Scenic Hotel Marlborough and the Marlborough Convention Centre.
"I’ve got a wide-ranging background in events and obviously accommodation and prior to arriving in New Zealand I was running a small luxury hotel England."
And although his work experience fitted with what Larnach Castle had to offer, the approaching cruise ship season would be a first for him.
He had not had much to do with the cruise industry in his previous roles, and he was particularly looking forward to it.
"It’s when the castle really buzzes."
As for the castle itself, it looked stunning at all times of the year, he said.
"I think it’s New Zealand’s castle and it’s very much a part of everybody that’s been and visited or worked here."