Marlborough Farm, Garden & Sheep Round-Up
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Port
Picton, New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$289
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Travel from Picton, approximately 30 minutes by coach, to Welton House. Owned and tended to by Wendy Palmer and her garden designer brother, Ross, the Welton homestead is surrounded by approximately seven acres of garden built high on an ancient sand dune. Highlights include unique and extensive topiary hedges, which mirror the stunning Richmond Ranges, and powerful, oversized wooden steps, platforms and pergolas that settle the garden in its place.
Pass through Blenheim — the main town of the Marlborough region. Your coach climbs through the aptly-named Wither Hills, whose dry, yellow grasses yield to the rolling farmland of Dashwood Pass and the pretty Awatere Valley. Marlborough's weather is legendary, and a bright, sunny day will afford grand views across the valley to Mt Tapuaenuku.
Continue by coach approximately 70 minutes to your next destination, Winterhome — a coastal farm raising more than 3,500 breeding sheep and 100 head of cattle. Stop near the woolshed for a sheepdog demonstration, where the incredibly intelligent dogs skillfully muster a small flock of sheep under the guidance of the dedicated farm manager.
A stunningly scenic panoramic drive takes down the east coast of the South Island to The Store at Kekerengu — an absolutely iconic New Zealand institution. This highly-regarded café offers breathtaking views and delicious fresh food. Situated on the Kaikoura Coast, among black-sand beaches and sun-kissed farmland, The Store is a very special place to sit back and relax over a delicious country-style lunch. You are invited to enjoy a glass of wine.
Return to Picton and the ship.
Notes:
Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair. Travel time between Picton and The Store is approximately 1¾ hours each way. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water.