We wish to inform our valued passengers of an upcoming service change on the Northern Explorer train due to scheduled network maintenance.
Affected Dates:
27 June – 12 July 2025
19 – 30 September 2025
3 – 4 October 2025
Impact on Travel:
During these dates, the tracks between Auckland Strand Railway Station and Hamilton will be closed due to essential rail maintenance.
From Auckland to Hamilton: Passengers will transfer by bus from Auckland Strand or Papakura Station to Hamilton Station.
From Hamilton to Auckland: Passengers will transfer by bus from Hamilton Station to Papakura or Auckland Strand Station.
Scenic Routes Unaffected:
Rest assured, you will not miss a significant portion of the scenic route. The most picturesque parts of the journey are located south of Hamilton, and the train journey between Hamilton and Wellington will operate as usual.
Flexibility for Travelers:
To accommodate your plans, you may:
Reschedule your travel to a different date.
Request a 100% refund if you prefer not to travel during this period.
We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by this disruption and remain committed to providing a safe and comfortable journey.
This is a New Zealand farming tour like no other – a visit to the Walter Peak High Country Farm and the perfect opportunity to spend a relaxing few hours enjoying the interactive experience.
Includes a scenic cruise on board the vintage TSS Earnslaw to the farm
A guided walking tour of the farmyard with our rural host
Demonstrations of the farming lifestyle
Morning or afternoon tea, freshly baked at the farm
There are daily departures for the farm tour
Duration: 3 hour 30 mins
Farming in the New Zealand high country is a way of life – and it’s one you can get up close to at Walter Peak.
Situated on picturesque Lake Wakatipu’s southwestern shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm is an idyllic place to spend a relaxing few hours. The farm tour itself is a wonderful, interactive experience, with something to keep everyone entertained and happy.
You will be greeted by our rural host upon disembarking the TSS Earnslaw, who will take you to the sheep shearing demonstration where you will watch the remarkable skill with which the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks.
You will have time for a walking tour of the farmyard, visiting the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then a stroll to the charming old wool shed for morning or afternoon tea. You may have time to stroll through the lakeside gardens before you re-board the TSS Earnslaw for your cruise back to Queenstown.
Things you should know
Includes return cruise on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw to/from Walter Peak High Country Farm
Includes a guided walking tour of the farmyard to view and feed sheep, deer, cattle, and alpacas
Demonstrations of sheep dogs working and sheep shearing
Enjoy morning or afternoon tea including scones, cakes, and slices freshly baked at the farm
There’s time to relax in the lakeside gardens, in the sunny courtyards, or peruse the gift shop for a memorable take-home souvenir
Extra Information
The tour is suitable for all ages – children love watching the dogs at work!
A licensed cafe on board the TSS Earnslaw provides great refreshments
Please note: The TSS Earnslaw is under maintenance for a short time period during winter each year (planned for early June - early July 2020). During this period travel to Walter Peak is by a smaller motorized boat (the lower price reflects this change).
Departure Location
RealNZ Visitor Centre on Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown
If you have pre-purchased tickets, please meet us in front of the TSS Earnslaw, Steamer Wharf Dock
What to bring
Shoes/boots (non-slip)
Warm clothing/jacket
Sunscreen/sunglasses
Camera
Personal medication including for asthma and allergies
