Experience life on a real working high-country farm in the heart of the Mackenzie Region.
Lake Tekapo Farm Tours
Our Farm Tours & Experiences
Meet the Animals
From Merino sheep, angus cattle to cuddly alpacas, you can meet a range of farm animals during your Tekapo farm tour. Get up close with our animals and the opportunity to feed, pat, and even bottle-feed (during lambing season!).
Depending on the tour you can meet:
Merino Sheep – prized for their soft wool
Alpacas – gentle and photogenic fan favorites
Kune-Kune Pigs – curious and playful
Chickens – egg-laying stars
Angus Cattle – Huge animals!
- Working Dogs – Hardest workers out in the farm
Your Journey – Tekapo Farm Experience
Daily Departures | Duration: Approx. 1 – 2 Hours
Check-in at Tekapo Base
Arrive at our farm base in Lake Tekapo and meet your friendly local guide. Receive a quick introduction before beginning your farm adventure.
Explore the High Country
Take in the breathtaking landscapes as you learn about farming in the mackenzie
Learn Sustainable Farming Practices
Discover how farming has shaped the Mackenzie region for generations and learn about our eco-friendly, sustainable methods that protect the land.
Meet & Feed the Animals
Get up close with alpacas, Merino sheep, pigs, chickens, and more. Enjoy hands-on activities like feeding and, during lambing season, bottle-feeding.
Return to Base
End your journey with unforgettable memories and photos of your farm experience.
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MORE INFORMATION
Embark on an unforgettable tour with Go Tekapo and step into the heart of rural New Zealand. We offer a genuine and immersive look into the daily life of a working high-country sheep station. This is a hands-on experience where you’ll get to see skilled sheep dogs in action, learn about the fascinating Merino sheep that thrive in this rugged environment, and understand the traditions that have shaped generations of farmers. Our knowledgeable guides, who live and work on the land, will share captivating stories and provide unique insights, making this a truly educational and engaging excursion.
Tour Highlights
Meet & hand-feed friendly farm animals
Learn about sheep shearing and Merino wool
Guided tour of a working 50,000-acre sheep station
Discover sustainable farming practices
Plenty of photo opportunities with alpacas, sheep & the landscape
Scenic 4WD ride through the farm (on select tours)
A Personalized Journey for Every Visitor
We pride ourselves on offering a personalized trip that connects you directly with the land and its animals. At Go Tekapo, our farm tours are carefully designed to be an intimate and interactive experience, not a crowded bus ride. You’ll have the chance to feed friendly sheep, learn about wool production, and explore the vast, stunning landscapes that serve as a backdrop for this unique way of life. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun and educational outing or a traveler seeking a deeper connection to the country, our tours are tailored to ensure you leave with a profound appreciation for the Mackenzie High Country. Join us and discover a different kind of adventure, one that celebrates hard work, stunning scenery, and genuine Kiwi hospitality.
Why Choose Go Tekapo’s Farm Tours?
- Authentic Working Farm
We’re not just a display – we’re a fully operational high-country Merino station with over 10,000 sheep. - Family Friendly Fun
Our tours are designed to be safe, educational, and exciting for all ages – from toddlers to grandparents. - Interactive Experiences
Pet, feed, and photograph our animals. Seasonal lamb bottle-feeding is a guest favourite! - Sustainable Practices
We go beyond just eco-friendly – we’re carbon-positive and proudly support the Tiaki Promise. - Scenic High Country Backdrop
Enjoy 360-degree views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps as you explore.
Have questions? We’re here to help.
Whether you’re booking a stargazing tour, farm visit, 4WD adventure, or high-country hike, this FAQ covers our most commonly asked questions to help you prepare.
In case you haven’t found the information you were looking for, we’ve put together some of the most common questions our customers ask about our trips. If you need more specific answers, please contact us directly.
What animals can we see during the tour?
You’ll meet Merino sheep, alpacas, pigs, chickens, and sometimes bottle-feed lambs depending on the season.
Are the farm tours suitable for young children?
Absolutely! Our petting zoo and farm experiences are family-friendly and safe for kids of all ages.
What should we wear?
We recommend comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. During colder months, bring a jacket as it can be chilly in the high country.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, of course! Our animals are camera-friendly, and we encourage you to capture your memories.
Is there a Chinese-speaking guide available?
Yes. 中文服务预定 is available on select tours. Please request when booking.
How long are the tours?
Tour durations vary:
Petting Zoo – ~30–45 minutes
Mt Hay Farm Experience – ~1.5 hours
Station Tour – ~2–2.5 hours
Do we need to book in advance?
We highly recommend booking in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Walk-ins are welcome but not guaranteed.
Where do we meet before the tour?
All tours depart from our check-in office:
📍 48a D’Archiac Drive, Lake Tekapo (inside The Cairns Alpine Resort)