The Road to Mesopotamia
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Port
Timaru, 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
$289.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Escape from civilization on this journey up the glacially-carved Rangitata Valley to visit the historic Mesopotamia Station in the heart of New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Travelling northwest from Timaru port by coach the first stop is Peel Forest Park with its ancient native forest, offering a chance for a short forest walk to see the 1000-year-old Totara tree or enjoy birdsong.
After leaving Peel Forest Park pass by other sheep, beef and deer stations, starting with the historic Mt Peel Station. Next stop is Mesopotamia Sheep Station with a visit to the historic Mesopotamia school.
You will have a chance for photos in the stunning backdrop panorama of glaciers and snowfields. See just why this landscape was chosen as the site for Edoras and Helms Deep in the "Lord of the Rings" movies.
The return journey makes a stop in the vibrant country town of Geraldine, well known for its cafes, military museum, art galleries and craft shops. Enjoy light lunch with complimentary tea and coffee.
Enjoy the town at your leisure.
Next visit a small farm where a world-class shearer will give a shearing and sheepdog demonstration. Enjoy a complimentary wine or beer as you watch the show.
Travel back across the Canterbury Plains to Timaru.
Notes:
Total distance travelled by coach is approximately 230 km (140 miles). Estimated time on the coach is about 3 hours and 45 minutes. Some of the drive is on unsealed country roads. There is plenty of time for enjoying the locations, the forest walk, shopping and restroom stops. Tour sequence may vary.