From Christchurch: Sheep Farm Experience with Lunch & Winery

If you’re looking for a way to get a true taste of New Zealand outside of the city, this Sheep Farm Experience with Lunch & Winery offers a fantastic mix of rural charm, local flavors, and scenic beauty. We’ve come across plenty of reviews from travelers who loved combining farm life, gourmet food, and wine in one seamless day—making it a great choice for those wanting an authentic and relaxed adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the exclusive access to a working family-owned farm with stunning ocean views. Second, the live sheep shearing and working dog demonstrations—definitely highlights for animal lovers and curious minds alike. Third, the delicious locally sourced lunch paired with a visit to an award-winning winery. The only potential drawback? The overall duration is about six hours, so it’s best for travelers comfortable with a full day away from Christchurch.

This experience suits those who love a mix of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and good food and drink. If you’re eager for an authentic Kiwi experience with small-group intimacy, this tour tends to deliver on many fronts.

Good To Know

• Authentic Family-Owned Farm: Gain rare access to a real working sheep and beef farm overlooking the coast.
• Farm Demonstrations: Watch sheep shearing and see clever farm dogs in action—great for animal and farming enthusiasts.
• Gourmet Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a scenic, locally sourced lunch with ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Wine Tasting: Sample award-winning wines from the Waipara Valley, with expert insights into regional winemaking.
• Comfortable Small Group: Intimate size ensures personalized attention and genuine Kiwi hospitality.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus options to cancel or postpone with ease.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transfer

The tour begins with pickup from seven convenient Christchurch locations, including hotels and the airport, typically from 9:00 am onwards. With a small-group setting, the journey feels personalized, and the comfortable coach makes the roughly 45-minute drive through Canterbury’s lush countryside quite pleasant. The group size keeps things intimate enough to ask questions and participate actively.

First Stop: Sheep Farm at Glenafric

Upon arrival at Glenafric, a family-owned farm spanning 770 hectares, you’re greeted with warmth and the chance to learn what real Kiwi rural life looks like. Owned by the Hoban family for three generations, the farm offers more than just views—they share stories that truly bring their land and livestock to life.

The highlight here is the sheep shearing demonstration. Watching a sheep being shorn is surprisingly fascinating—and it’s quick, skillful work that highlights the importance of wool in New Zealand. Reviewers note that the sheepdogs are “highly trained” and perform impressive teamwork, which adds an entertaining layer to the visit. One guest mentioned, “Seeing the dogs in action was a real treat,” and you’ll likely get to hand-feed some sheep, giving you a close-up experience of farm life.

Exploring the Farm & Heritage

The tour includes exploring the historic woolshed, where vintage tractors and equipment tell stories of rural New Zealand’s past. This little museum-like stop enriches your understanding of the land’s history. The scenic coastal views from Louise’s Lookout are breathtaking—perfect for photos and just soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

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Gourmet Picnic Lunch with Ocean Views

After working up an appetite, you’ll settle in for a gourmet picnic lunch overlooking the ocean. The food is locally sourced, fresh, and thoughtfully prepared, with reviewers commenting on how “not your typical ham sandwich” it was. The setting’s tranquility and the views make this a highlight, especially appreciated by those who love food that’s both tasty and meaningful.

Waipara Valley Winery Visit and Tasting

The journey continues with a 20-minute transfer to an award-winning winery in Waipara Valley. This region is renowned for its quality wines, and the tasting includes varieties like Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Syrah. Guests often praise the warm welcome from staff and the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process while admiring the mountain views behind the vines.

While some reviews mention that the winery visit may seem less “additive” compared to the farm experience, most agree that the wines are enjoyable, and the setting adds to the appeal. For wine lovers, this stop elevates the day, providing a taste of New Zealand’s impressive viticulture.

Return to Christchurch & Sightseeing

On the way back, the coach makes a brief stop for sightseeing in Christchurch, showcasing highlights like the Botanic Gardens, Avon River, and the iconic Cardboard Cathedral. The 30-minute city tour offers a snapshot of Christchurch’s resilience and charm, perfect for those with limited time or wanting a quick overview.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts roughly 6 hours, making it suitable for most travelers comfortable with a full day away from the city. The small group size ensures a friendly, personalized experience—an important factor for many who dislike large, rushed tours.

Transportation and Accessibility

Transportation is via a comfortable coach, with pickup and drop-off included. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives and relaxed pace but note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people with back problems, as some walking and farm activity is involved.

Cost and Value

Considering the farm visit, gourmet lunch, wine tasting, and transportation, the value seems quite reasonable. Travelers often comment that the experience feels authentic and well-organized, with knowledgeable guides like Simon making the day especially engaging.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and water are recommended. The tour runs in good weather, so dressing appropriately for outdoor activities and scenery is a good idea.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking is flexible, with free cancellations up to 24 hours before. You can reserve now and pay later, which adds peace of mind if plans shift.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, especially Simon, who is praised for “being very welcoming and full of interesting commentary.” The farm experience itself is described as “great authentic farm experience,” with guests loving the chance to pet lambs and sheep and learn about farm life from the owners.

The lunch receives high praise for being organic, delicious, and more luxurious than expected. The views from the picnic spot and the winery are often called “stunning,” making the day feel like a true escape into nature.

Several guests mention the small group size as a key factor for feeling relaxed and able to ask questions or take photos without feeling rushed. The combination of farm, food, and wine makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to New Zealand’s rural side.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a carefully curated mix of farm life, scenic beauty, good food, and wine—delivered in a small-group setting with genuine Kiwi hospitality. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking an authentic experience that balances education, relaxation, and indulgence.

If you enjoy animals, scenic views, local cuisine, and regional wines, you’re likely to find this tour both enjoyable and memorable. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a gentle, immersive day that showcases the natural and agricultural charm of New Zealand’s South Island.

For anyone interested in a balanced, authentic slice of Kiwi life—this trip delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children 7 years and over. Younger children or those with back problems may find some activities less comfortable.

How long is the drive from Christchurch?
It’s approximately a 45-minute coach ride to the farm, with additional travel to the winery and back to Christchurch.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. The outdoor nature of the experience makes these essentials useful.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later gives flexibility in planning.

Is the winery visit included in the tour?
Yes, the winery stop is part of the itinerary, where you can sample wines like Pinot Noir and Riesling and enjoy the scenic views.

What is the group size typically like?
It’s a small-group experience, which means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is the food included?
Yes, a gourmet picnic lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients is part of the tour, served overlooking the ocean.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, genuine taste of Canterbury’s rural and coastal treasures, making it a fantastic addition to your New Zealand adventure—especially if you want to see the land, taste its flavors, and meet the people behind the scenes.

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