South Island Farm and Rural Escape

You will take a scenic helicopter flight from Wellington to Midldlehurst Station. 

Middlehurst Station is a working sheep station nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, surrounded by rugged hills and vast, open plains. This expansive property offers a genuine taste of rural life, with a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional farming experience, exploring the land and observing authentic farming practices. Beyond the adventure, Middlehurst Station provides the perfect setting to relax in the serene, open nature space, where the tranquil surroundings and fresh air invite you to unwind and reconnect with the land. 

On top of the day-to-day operations at Middlehurst Station that you can part of, there is also some room for relaxation. Treat yourself to an unforgettable luxury experience with our woodfired hot tubs. A pristine spring located at the foot of Mt Lookout delivers gravity-fed water to the wood-fired hot tubs just a few meters away from The Quarters lodging. Placed discretely and shielded, they offer privacy and complete relaxation, inviting our guests to luxuriate in the natural mountain mineral water.

Owned and operated by the Macdonald family, Middlehurst Station covers 16,500 hectares of the upper Awatere Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand. Nestled within sight of Middlehurst's prominent Mt Lookout, and a short walk from the Awatere Valley’s braided rivers. The Station supplies fine merino wool to national and international clothing brands such as Ice Breaker and Allbirds. On this tour, you will see inside the Station Woolshed and get an understanding of sheep shearing operations. Merino fleece will be on display to feel, and a shepherd with a team of dogs will give a demonstration of their expertise.

Experience a variety of exciting activities that offer both adventure and natural immersion. Hop on an e-bike for a scenic ride through breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to explore the outdoors with ease and excitement. Take part in a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare delicious local dishes. For a deeper connection to the land, join a farm tour to discover the inner workings of a working farm. These activities provide a perfect blend of outdoor exploration, culinary delight, and authentic farm experiences, making for an unforgettable journey.

You'll take a scenic helicopter flight from  Middlehurst Station to Kaikoura.

Kaikoura is a breathtaking seaside town teeming with marine life and natural beauty. As you wander through this coastal paradise, you'll be enveloped by the fresh sea breeze and the sounds of the ocean. Begin your adventure by observing the lively fur seal colony at the tip of the peninsula. For an unforgettable experience, board a boat to go whale watching and marvel at the majestic whales that call these waters home year-round. If you're feeling adventurous, take the plunge and swim with the playful dusky dolphins in their natural habitat. For bird enthusiasts, Kaikoura offers the chance to get up close with the native albatross, an awe-inspiring sight. The town is rich with attractions, walking tracks, and activities for every visitor. A walk around the Kaikoura Peninsula is a must, where you can explore tide pools teeming with marine life, observe sea creatures basking on the rocks, and watch seabirds soaring above. Be sure to keep a respectful distance from the sleeping sea lions you might encounter along the way. Ohau Point is another highlight, where you can watch fur seals frolic in their natural environment. To delve into Kaikoura's fascinating history, visit Fyffe House. This historic whaler's cottage offers a glimpse into the town's whaling past and its evolution over the years. No trip to Kaikoura is complete without sampling the local seafood. Renowned for having some of the best fish and chips in the country, Kaikoura's eateries serve fresh catches straight from the morning's haul, ensuring a delicious and authentic dining experience. If you need a break from the action, unwind at Lavendyl Lavender Farm. Stroll through the fragrant lavender fields, relax in the serene atmosphere, and browse the gift shop for a variety of lavender products. Kaikoura seamlessly blends adventure, history, and relaxation, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking a unique and enriching experience.

You will be transferred to your accommodation by Kaikoura Shuttles.

The Captain’s Cabin is situated in the wheelhouse alongside the skipper and watchkeeper. This cabin provides guests with exclusive access to the skipper as they go about their duties as well as a dedicated guide for the duration of the tour. There is a maximum of 12 passengers, giving a more intimate, comfortable, and modern setting.

You'll take a scenic helicopter flight from Kaikoura to Flockhill.

Step into 36,000 acres of stunning alpine landscape and discover luxury adventure vacations in New Zealand's Southern Alps. The new Flock Hill offers an inspiring blend of exploration and harmony with nature. With pristine lakes, hidden caves, sweeping tussock fields, and towering mountains, Flock Hill is one of the most breathtaking destinations for adventure seekers. Create unforgettable memories with custom-designed activities, savor exceptional dining, and feel connected each morning as you step out into the expansive surroundings.

Set in an exclusive wilderness where nothing is manufactured, Flockhill inspires adventure and exploration. Activities arranged by the lodge offer a unique taste of Flockhill, shared in an intimate setting with fellow guests. You might embark on a scenic journey into the station’s remote backcountry, gaining an appreciation for New Zealand’s legendary farming heritage. Spend time with the animals, learn the art of dog-whistling, and watch as skilled dogs muster a flock of sheep. Alternatively, you might hop on an e-bike to explore the Lake Track, visit Lake Pearson, or set out on a scenic hike.

Surrender to the wilderness and discover something new today. Flock Hill offers a wide range of curated activities across the station, from horseback riding and rock climbing to biking, ATV tours, fly fishing, and more. Each activity provides a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of Canterbury and the Southern Alps. 

Your driver will transfer you to Arthur's Pass Train Station. 

Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making the TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partition New Zealand's South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Enjoy epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer, all from the comfort of your luxurious seat—a hosted dining experience like no other. Simply relax, sink back in your seat, and soak up the incredible scenery.

On arrival at the Christchurch train station, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation.

Christchurch known in Māori as Ōtautahi, is the largest metro area in the South Island. Commonly referred to as New Zealand's "Garden City", Christchurch is home to one of the biggest public parks in the country, and beautiful botanic gardens. The city was hit with devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, now the city crosses the line between its English heritage and a new modern archetecture. To take in some arts and culture, pay a visit to the Canterbury Museum or the Christchurch Art Gallery. Take a step back in time with a tram around the city or punt along the Avon River. If tasting your way around the city is your means of travel, try out a cultural eating tour. A short drive from the CBD will lead you to the outskirts of the Banks Peninsula beachside suburb of Sumner or through the tunnel to Lyttleton Harbour which hosts fantastic markets on Saturday mornings.

A private transfer will meet you at your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport to collect your rental car.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. Find out all you need to know about rental car hire in New Zealand with our helpful FAQ's.

Drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes pass you'll come to the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo. Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki-Mt Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue colour. Continue along the lake to your final destination Aoraki-Mt Cook Village.

At 3754m Aoraki-Mt Cook is Aotearoa-New Zealand's highest mountain, located deep in the heart of the Southern Alps. As well as its impressive beauty, Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park is also home to a huge range of awe-inspiring sights and activities. Take to the air with Mt Cook Ski Planes for a scenic flight that includes a glacier landing. At around 27 kilometres long the Tasman Glacier is New Zealand's longest and a Glacier Explorers tour allows you to see its unique features up close.
There are many short hikes in and around the park and these are well signposted around the village. Those with an interest in the night sky should take a Big Sky Stargazing tour with the Hermitage Hotel. The region is considered to have one of the clearest night skies in the world and is one of the few gold-rated dark sky reserves worldwide.
Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre for insight into this region's mountain climbing history. You'll also learn of Sir Ed's incredible achievements and his dedication to helping others around the world.

Located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, with no light pollution. 
Marvel as the sun dips behind the grand Southern Alps during our Dusk to Dark excursion. Join us on the Lavender Lawn at the magical twilight hour and indulge in the awe-inspiring panoramas of Aoraki/Mount Cook, offering an ideal backdrop for capturing stunning photographs. As darkness envelops the sky, step into the entrancing realm of the Pukaki Observatory at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you'll be welcomed with a glass of wine or a dram of whisky to set the mood. Our knowledgeable astronomer will then guide you through a celestial exploration using a high-powered laser pointer and a telescope mounted on a pier. Delve into the enigmas of constellations and their mythologies, stars, star clusters, nebulae, planets, the Moon, and more, while also relishing real-time views of cosmic wonders on a large screen via a camera connected to the telescope. Whether you're a novice to stargazing or a seasoned enthusiast, our guided tour ensures an unforgettable journey beneath one of the world's darkest and clearest skies. This extraordinary experience offers a rare opportunity to stargaze within the renowned Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

The legendary voyage that includes getting up close and personal with a real glacier and icebergs. Sea-Kayak into pristine glacial bays surrounded by glacial ice and you may be able to Sea-Kayak near to or even touch ice bergs. Experience the beauty and peaceful nature this quiet zone of Aoraki/Mt Cook has to offer. Listen to avalanches thundering off the slopes of Mt Sefton from a safe distance.

There are many short scenic walks beginning in and around the Mt Cook Village, suitable for all ages and abilities. Located within the Mount Cook Village is the Department of Conservation information centre, where updates on the track conditions and suitability is available as well as information on the history of the area and its wildlife.

Mt Cook Retreat is located in the heart of a vast inter montane basin well known as a fly fishing and game hunting destination. There is an abundance of trout in the clear waters of the region and this can produce wonderful sport, especially since rainbow trout are present in most waters along with their brown trout counterparts and there are several fishing choices with over 30 streams, lakes and canals, all within 1 hour's drive from the Retreat.

Twizel, just south of Aoraki Mt Cook was the location of many Lord of the Rings movie scenes and a little further on is Omarama, the gliding capital of New Zealand. Wrinkly Rams is a local café with great coffee and fresh homemade food. The Lindis Pass is one of New Zealand’s highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres. The tussock covered hills offer an unusual contrast as you pass from the Mackenzie Basin and into Central Otago. The first Central Otago settlement you reach is the quaint village of Tarras, which has a number of boutique stores and a lovely café.  Approaching Wanaka the wonderful alpine lake welcomes you to the town. Despite its size Wanaka has a wide variety of activities available. In winter it is without doubt New Zealand's premier ski destination with its very close proximity to Treble Cone and Cardrona ski fields. Mount Aspiring National Park sits to the western edge of the lake and offers wonderful walking tracks for all abilities; the Rob Roy Track is a great introduction to this spectacular park. Fishing, sailing and water skiing are popular pastimes on the lake and the many beach access points provide great spots for picnics and relaxing.

Nestled on the shores of one of New Zealand's largest lakes and framed by the stunning Southern Alps. Wānaka is an alpine village that perfectly blends adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a laid-back vibe. In winter, Wānaka transforms into a bustling hub as snow sports enthusiasts flock to its renowned ski fields, Treble Cone and Cardrona. As the gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park, it offers endless opportunities for hikers, with trails winding through remote wilderness, majestic peaks, and serene river valleys. Closer to town, you’ll find a network of scenic walking tracks, such as the popular Mount Iron Track and from the lakefront, it is a short walk to "That Wanaka Tree". For thrill-seekers, Wānaka is an adrenaline playground, offering skydiving, rock climbing, and jet boating. If you're seeking a sweet treat be sure to try out Black Peak Gelato or if you're after something delicious and nutritious a stop at Big Fig is a must!

Accessible only by helicopter, we offer daily departures flying from our Queenstown and Wanaka heliports. This is not your normal hotel transfer. Flying through spectacular mountain valleys, over snow-capped peaks and across braided alpine rivers, the journey into Minaret Station is up there amongst some of the world’s finest scenic flights. And this we call a transfer!

Minaret Station Lodge offers a selection of off-the-beaten-path experiences for all interests and fitness levels, allowing you to make the most of your stay. Adventure activities include heli-skiing, heli-biking, heli-hiking, backcountry fishing or a guided hunting expedition. Wish to explore at a slower pace? Minaret Station also offers horse-riding tours or an exclusive look into the day-to-day operations of the 50,000-acre private farm.

Talk to our friendly sales consultants about arranging a day experience, or, bask in the sun and enjoy the incredible scenes at Minaret Station.

You will be transferred by helicopter back to Wanaka. 

Leaving Wanaka, you head over New Zealand's highest sealed road, Crown Range Road, before dropping into Queenstown. This drive only takes about an hour, but you should allow more time to enjoy the magnificent scenery and explore the walks and many stops en route, including the Cardrona Distillery, wonderful views from Crown Range's highest point over Queenstown, the picturesque town of Arrowtown, and if time allows, even the wineries in Gibbston.

Queenstown known in Māori as Tāhuna, is home to many adrenaline-inducing activities. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this alpine town has very distinct seasons, and most adrenaline-filled activities can be accessed year-round. Queenstown is home to jet boating, bungy jumping, rafting, skydiving, paragliding, and even indoor thrills. If you want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon Swing, or Zip line the Gondola. While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace, there are plenty of recreational activities, including hiking and biking trails to explore, guided tours, boat cruises, scenic flights, or spa and wellness options to help you get away. Head to the lakefront, eat at one of the al fresco eateries, and soak up the local vibes; catch a ride on the iconic 100-year-old steamship the TSS Earnslaw; or take the Skyline Gondola and enjoy bird's-eye views of the Remarkables mountain ranges and Lake Wakatipu. Pack a picnic and go for a hike, only 20 minutes from Central Queenstown, Coronet Peak opens for summer sightseeing. You can ride the Peak Gondola to the top for panoramic views and hike the trails, or go for a bike ride on many excellent biking trails. In winter, Queenstown becomes a world-class winter resort, with four ski areas and a range of activities, bars, restaurants, and ways to relax and unwind. 

Spectacularly situated on Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge offers stunning panoramic views of the Remarkables, Cecil and Walter Peak mountain ranges. Just a short seven minute drive for the centre of Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge is a relaxing alpine retreat tucked into one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. The main lodge consists of a spacious lounge, dining and living areas complimented by large open fires. It also has a large patio, library and courtyard - all comfortable spaces to relax in. You can also take a swim in the pool or relax in the Jacuzzi, both offering spectacular views of the lake and mountainside.

Experience sunrise over the lakes and mountains from the serenity of a hot air balloon. You'll float gently with the breeze, enjoying incredible panoramic views and your flight is followed by a champagne style breakfast at your landing spot. Flights are at dawn when the air is cool and calm and in the right conditions you can expect to see views of Coronet Peak and The Remarkables ski areas, Mount Aspiring in the Southern Alps and Mount Tutoko in Fiordland National Park. You can also see Lake Wakatipu, Lake Hayes, the Shotover and Kawarau rivers. Additionally a bonus for many are the views of some Lord of the Rings scenes such as The Ford Of Bruinen, Dimrill Dale, The Gates of Argonath and The Pillars Of The Kings. Also visible is Mount Earnslaw, one of the great mountains seen in Isengard.  The flight is for approximately 1 hour and you will be standing for the duration of the flight.

Enjoy wine tastings at 4 or more vineyards in the Gibbston region with an informative and entertaining commentary about the gold mining history and pioneers of the wine industry. Can be combined with a visit to the famous A.J.Hackett Kawarau Bungy Bridge for a leap of faith.

Drop your rental car at the Queenstown airport today.

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!