Gisborne Farm Adventures
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Port
Gisborne, 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
$189.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
A short drive from Gisborne takes you through the countryside to Waipura Station -- a sprawling 2,100-acre sheep and beef farm. This charming rural setting is the domain of a fourth-generation farming family.
Your hosts, Graham, Anne, Caroline and Jo welcome you to their home, which they share (outdoors, at least) with 3,000 sheep and 300 head of cattle. You will spend time on this hilly property and get acquainted with the 110-year-old homestead built from native New Zealand lumber. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
An up-close encounter at the woolshed is an opportunity to observe a sheep-shearing demonstration. With quite remarkable dexterity and speed, the shearers expertly and painlessly relieve animals of their long woolly coats. Sheep farming is a leading industry in this region, and it is fascinating to learn of the wool's journey from sheep to bale and beyond.
In the paddock, watch the shepherd muster a flock of sheep on horseback, aided by his trusty farm dog. The synthesis between dog and man is a thing of beauty, and you'll notice that the dog doesn't bark; instead it fixes a beady eye on the sheep and makes them do what the shepherd wants.
Classic kiwi home-baked refreshments are served before you head back to Gisborne and the ship. Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so, but must make their own way back to the ship.
Notes:
Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes.