You are going to love discovering the Marlborough high country and Molesworth Station, meeting local farmers and staying in heritage accommodation at Ugbrooke Country House plus a night at Hanmer Springs thermal resort village.
Excellent—we loved it, good even for “townies”. Dave and Jocelyn.
Itinerary- Departing Blenheim - Awatere Valley -Flaxbourne Station and Ward area-Ugbrooke Country Estate - Morning tea Awatere Valley-Molesworth Station - Hanmer Springs Thermal Resort - Lake Tennyson - Rainbow Station - Wairau Valley - Blenheim.
Thank you for the most amazing trip—never been on anything like it. You were an ideal leader Geoff, wonderful tales of personalities and history. We met marvelous people and have a whole new knowledge and feel for that part of the country and the people who live there. Kristin and Tony Arthur
Day one Departing Blenheim 8 am from your accommodation, enjoy a scenic tour around the lower Awatere and Flaxbourne region,morning tea on an olive grove on the banks of the Flaxbourne river. You will learn all about the first land owners Clifford, Vavasour and Weld who were NZ's sheep farming pioneers.
Over lunch on a Flaxbourne third generation farm, discover the local history with tales and stories of working on Molesworth Station as a young musterer.
Learn of different farming practices, the history and local stories along the way.
Enjoy an overnight stay at Ugbrooke Country Estate where you will have time to unwind with good old fashioned country hospitality.
Dinner will be served with one complimentary glass of local Awatere wine, full bar service available. There will be time before dinner for a walk, game of bowls,swim, 9 hole pitch and putt course or just enjoy being in a beautiful country setting.
Day two we visit a high country station for morning tea to learn about their interesting lifestyle. Traveling further on up the Awatere Valley we reach the mighty Molesworth Station.
Once on Molesworth you will love reveling in the history and atmosphere of New Zealand's largest and most iconic station. We visit two restored historic cob dwellings situated at different points on the station, view the station headquarters, enjoy picnic lunch with good coffee and traditional favorites from the cake tin.
Arrive in Hanmer Springs thermal resort to stay at The Drifters Inn late afternoon, with time to soak in the hot pools, wander through the town, or take a walk amongst the tree soaked township.
Day three, we return to the vast unspoilt high country and visit places like Lake Tennyson, Tarndale Lakes, Hell's Gate, Coldwater Creek, Island Saddle, the historic Rainbow Accommodation house, and for those who dare a crossing of the Lee's Creek swing bridge.
Travel through the rugged Rainbow Station a dramatic contrast in landforms and vegetation to Molesworth. Enjoy lunch in the wide open spaces, later travel past the world famous vineyards of Marlborough's Wairau Valley returning to Blenheim by 5.30 pm.
Tour Dates
Nov 8th-10th
Taking bookings for spring tours now.
Please contact us to discuss your needs.
Fast Tour Facts
Overnights: Ugbrooke Country Estate and The Drifters Inn at Hanmer Springs Thermal Resort
All meals included, home baking for morning/afternoon teas
Bring: Warm clothing, swim gear
(for hot pools), camera.
Departing Blenheim at 8am
Return Blenheim by 5.30pm on day three
Price: NZD $1235pp Twin/share inclusive of gst single supplement $150
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High Country Farm Stay option available for groups of four people
Look at other Molesworth back country tour options
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