From Christchurch: Sheep Farm Experience with Lunch & Winery

Introduction

If you’re looking to step beyond the usual Christchurch city sights and get a true taste of rural New Zealand, this Sheep Farm Experience offers a compelling way to do just that. Designed for those curious about farm life, local food, and regional wine, this tour combines nature, history, and genuine Kiwi hospitality into a well-rounded day.

What we love about this tour is its hand-on farm activities, like sheep shearing and petting lambs, paired with spectacular coastal views and a visit to an award-winning winery. Plus, the small-group format makes it feel intimate and personalized. One thing to keep in mind: it’s a full-day experience, so some travelers might find it a bit long if you prefer shorter outings or have limited time.

This tour is perfect if you want an authentic, relaxed day out that highlights New Zealand’s rural charm, local produce, and stunning scenery. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy engaging with local people and learning about farm life firsthand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience with exclusive access to a family-owned sheep and beef farm
• Live sheep shearing demonstration and a chance to hand-feed sheep and meet farm dogs
• Gourmet picnic lunch with ocean views, featuring locally sourced ingredients
• Wine tasting at a top-rated Waipara Valley winery with a focus on regional varietals
• Small-group tour for a more relaxed, personalized experience
• Comfortable transportation with pickup from multiple Christchurch locations

An Authentic Taste of Rural New Zealand

This tour offers a genuine window into farm life on Glenafric, a spectacular 770-hectare coastal sheep and beef farm. Your hosts, the Hoban family, have been running it for three generations, making their knowledge and warmth a real highlight. You’ll quickly sense the pride they take in their land and their animals, which adds a layer of authenticity many tours lack.

Meet farmer James Hoban and his family, who welcome you into their home, sharing stories about farm operations and family history. The sense of community and tradition is palpable, giving you a deeper understanding of rural New Zealand beyond the tourist clichés.

The Sheep Farm Experience

The core of the tour is the sheep-shearing demonstration—a skillful and surprisingly quick process that reveals both the efficiency and care behind wool harvesting. As you watch, you’ll learn about the different roles of farm dogs, who are incredibly well-trained and work seamlessly alongside the farmers in herding sheep.

Many reviews highlight how engaging and informative this part of the trip is. Sarah from Australia notes, “The tour of the sheep farm was really interesting, and it was great to see a sheep dog in action.” The opportunity to pet and feed sheep and lambs makes the experience even more memorable, especially for animal lovers.

The historic woolshed and vintage tractors showcase New Zealand’s rural heritage, giving you a tangible connection to the land’s farming roots. For those interested in agriculture, this behind-the-scenes look is invaluable.

The Gourmet Picnic Lunch

After the farm activities, the tour takes you to Louise’s Lookout, which offers breathtaking ocean views. Here, you’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch featuring locally sourced produce—think fresh bread, cheeses, meats, and seasonal salads. It’s not your average sandwich; many reviews mention how well the lunch is catered, with options for dietary requirements.

This moment of relaxation allows you to soak in the scenery while your guide shares insights into Glenafric’s landscape and farming history. The setting and quality of the food elevate this experience from simple sightseeing to a true culinary highlight.

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Wine Tasting in Waipara Valley

The journey then takes you to the Waipara Valley, renowned for its award-winning wineries. The visit lasts around 45 minutes, during which you sample wines like Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Syrah—varieties that showcase the region’s versatility.

The winery’s setting is equally impressive, with views of the Three Deans mountain range adding to the sensory delight. As one reviewer, Carmen from Canada, mentions, “Loved the winery — the scenery was stunning, and the wine tasting was a perfect end to the day.”

This segment offers more than just tasting; you’ll learn about Waipara’s winemaking traditions, making it a worthwhile stop for wine enthusiasts or anyone interested in regional produce.

Return Journey & Christchurch Highlights

On the way back to Christchurch, the tour includes a brief sightseeing loop, pointing out landmarks like the Botanic Gardens, Avon River, and the Cardboard Cathedral—a chance to appreciate the city’s blend of historic and modern architecture in a relaxed manner.

It’s a good way to wrap up a busy day, especially for those new to Christchurch or with limited time.

Practical Details & Value

Transport is comfortable, with pickup included from multiple hotel and accommodation options around Christchurch, starting from 9:00 am. The tour lasts about 6 hours, providing a full but manageable day. The group size is kept small to ensure a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention.

Cost-wise, it’s a fair investment considering the variety of experiences packed into the day—farm visit, lunch, wine tasting, and city sightseeing. Reviewers frequently mention the good value for money, especially noting the quality of the food and the friendliness of guides.

Children aged 7 and over are welcome, making it family-friendly, though those with back problems or in wheelchairs might find it less accessible.

Authenticity and Reviews: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Simon, who “added to the enjoyment” with his commentary. The small group size is appreciated, fostering an intimate atmosphere. Many mention the “lovely lunch overlooking the farm” and the spectacular scenery as highlights.

Kerrie from Australia sums it up: “A thoroughly enjoyable day, well worth the price.” The combination of farm life, food, wine, and warm hospitality makes this tour stand out as a genuine Kiwi experience.

The Sum Up

This Sheep Farm Experience from Christchurch offers a well-balanced day that blends agricultural authenticity, regional food and wine, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who want an immersive look into New Zealand’s rural life without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Whether you’re a farm enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone eager to experience the land beyond the city, this tour provides a memorable, value-packed adventure. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and excellent wine make it a standout choice for those seeking a relaxed yet immersive day out.

If you’re after an authentic Kiwi experience that combines nature, culture, and culinary delights, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including farm visits, lunch, winery tasting, and city sightseeing.

What is included in the lunch?
You’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients, with options that cater to dietary requirements.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and over can participate. It’s especially enjoyable for animal lovers and families wanting a farm experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. The tour involves walking around the farm and outdoor settings.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, included pickup from multiple Christchurch locations and comfortable coach transport throughout the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for wine novices?
Absolutely. The winery visit offers tasting and insights suitable for beginners and connoisseurs alike.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is designed to be small-group, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention.

Are there any physical limitations to be aware of?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or those in wheelchairs due to outdoor farm activities and walking.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby