Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ?
What makes it 79% Kids-Friendly: Animal feeding, sheep-dog show and free fares for under-5s delight children and feel safe. Age 7+ limit for horse treks and long gravel paths mean parents must supervise and plan footwear.
Positives:
- Interactive animal encounters: Kids can feed sheep, alpacas and meet Highland cattle up close.
- Hands-on learning: Children plant native trees and herbs on guided garden walks.
- All-inclusive lunch: Fresh tea and lunch are served on-site, reducing planning stress.
Challenges:
- Gravel paths: Uneven ground may tire young children; bring sturdy shoes.
- Age limits for horse trek: Only kids aged 7+ can join the horseback ride.
- Weather changes: Lake winds and rain can arrive quickly; carry rain jackets and warm layers.
What is Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ?
- A working high-country sheep and cattle station on the Walter Peak plateau overlooking Lake Wakatipu
- A 19th-century farm estate distinguished by red-spired white homestead buildings, traditional woolshed and landscaped gardens
- An agricultural property operated by RealNZ, encompassing rolling pastures, heritage farmland and native vegetation
What is so special about Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ for with kids?
- Cruise on TSS Earnslaw to reach the high-country farm
- Get hands-on with feeding farm animals and planting native trees
- Enjoy live sheepdog demos in a safe amphitheatre setting
- Dine on fresh, local produce with child-friendly options
- Options for horse treks and garden tours for kids aged 7+
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
Why 3–4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for the cruise, farm tour, sheepdog demo and on-farm lunch without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ
Walter Peak Farm Tour:
Feed sheep, alpacas and Highland cattle on a guided farmyard walk.
Tip: Book the morning tour to catch the live sheepdog demonstration and enjoy freshly baked afternoon tea.
Sheepdog Demonstration:
Watch working dogs herd sheep in the amphitheatre.
Tip: Arrive early to get front-row seats and warm up with hot cocoa at the Colonel’s Homestead.
Garden to Table Experience:
Explore organic vegetable gardens and taste fresh herbs with a guided walk.
Tip: Bring a sunhat and let the kids plant a native sapling as a souvenir of their visit.
Horse Trek:
Take a 40-minute guided ride across high-country farmland.
Tip: Only children 7+ can ride; book in advance and request a child-friendly pony for beginners.
Gourmet BBQ Buffet:
Dine on Walter Peak lamb, beef and seasonal sides in a lakeside homestead.
Tip: Choose a window seat for lake views and ask for a highchair if needed.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ
- Book early ferry: Take the first TSS Earnslaw cruise to avoid midday crowds on the farm.
- Pack snacks: Extra snacks keep little ones happy between tour stops.
- Layer clothing: Quickly add or remove layers as temperatures shift by the water.
Reviews of Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ
Marts 2004
Absolutely 💯 brilliant experience. The hospitality was amazing. The boat road over very enjoyable as well. A massive shout out to Josh!!!! He was a brilliant guide fo the farm tour. Also to his dog Mia
Belinda Judd
What a fabulous experience ! We took the farm tour, and were thrilled to be able to feed so many animals - especially our family favourite the “hairy coos” - and watch sheep shearing. While the farm tour doesn’t include the buffet lunch, you get to do and see so much more and still get a delicious high tea.
Olivia S
Originally we had planned to cruise over to Walter Peak farm on the TSS Earnslaw, which we had done with the family back in 2021 but this time we were informed it was undergoing annual maintenance. Initially, we were disappointed but then relieved we would still be able to make the trip over on the catamaran Spirit of Queenstown. The trip over was a smooth 40 minutes with great weather. We had boo...
rachael c
We did the buffet lunch and farm show here recently and it was great. The food was well above what we were expecting and a big variety of options. We dined here for our honeymoon and the staff made us feel very taken care of during our dining experience. The live music was also a highlight and Josh + Mist were terrific to watch during the farm show. Would recommend to anyone visiting Queenstown.
Claude O'Dath
We had a wonderful time on the Walter Peak High Country Farm tour with RealNZ. The cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the Spirit of Queenstown was beautiful, offering incredible views all the way. At the farm, the experience felt authentic and welcoming. The sheepdog demonstration was impressive, and the chance to see and feed the animals up close made it even more special. The staff were warm and kno...
When is the best time to visit Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ (Queenstown, New Zealand)?
In summer (Dec–Feb), pack sunscreen, hats and insect repellent. In winter (Jun–Aug), layer up and check ferry times for shorter daylight. Spring brings wildflowers; watch weather updates.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Farm Tour (incl. cruise) tickets for 2 adults + 1 child (age 7+) | NZD 405 |
| Optional Horse Trek for one child or adult (age 7+) | NZD 249 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 654 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ
Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
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About Walter Peak High Country Farm - RealNZ
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 800 656 503Explore Popular Things to Do
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