Visit Walter Peak High Country Farm to travel through time to a simpler century. For years, the farmland on the western shores of Lake Wakatipu has been used for hunting, gathering and farming. Maori people once camped in the area’s sheltered bays while hunting for moa birds and gathering greenstone. In the 1800s, Europeans settled the region and tried farming. In the latter half of the century, the Mackenzie family took over Walter Peak Station. Their original homestead block is today’s Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Arrive at Walter Peak aboard the TSS Earnslaw,a vintage steamer ship that has been navigating the waters of Lake Wakatipu since 1912. As a pianist plays old-time tunes and you explore the ship’s original steam engine and other historical displays, you’ll feel like one of the Queenstown pioneers who first sailed aboard the ship. The boat has been painstakingly restored to its original glory and is the only coal-fired steamship working in the Southern Hemisphere.
At the farm, experience the realities of high-country farming in New Zealand, led by a congenial local host. Watch sheep-shearing demonstrations and marvel at how expertly the sheep dogs round up the herd from the paddocks. Wander through the manicured, lakeside gardens and meet and feed the resident sheep, Scottish Highland cattle, alpacas and deer. Indulge in a pot of tea and delicious homemade scones and cakes.
The farm experience is a nice break from the normal adrenaline-fueled Queenstown itinerary. This interactive visit is perfect for animal and nature lovers and for those interested in the history of the region. At day’s end, reboard the TSS Earnslaw for the enjoyable cruise back to Queenstown.
Reach Walter Peak High Country Farm by boat only. Limited parking is available on the street near Steamer Wharf in Queenstown. Alternatively, walk to the wharf from the downtown area or take the No. 6 Ritchies Connectabus.
