Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch + Lunch and Winery visit.

If you’re after a slice of real rural Kiwi life combined with a touch of wine country elegance, this Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch offers a well-rounded experience that balances authenticity with comfort. It’s a full-day adventure that takes you from the lush Christchurch Botanic Gardens into the scenic Waipara Valley, where a family-owned sheep farm, charming winery, and local landmarks await.

What we love about this tour is how it manages to blend hands-on farm experiences, like watching sheep shearing and feeding lambs, with gourmet tastings and stunning vistas. The thoughtful itinerary ensures you get a genuine taste of rural New Zealand, plus a little luxury with a winery visit.

A potential consideration is that the day involves quite a bit of traveling, and the group size is capped at 23, which keeps things personal but might feel a little busy during peak times. Still, this tour suits those wanting a deep dive into local life, great scenery, and excellent food and wine — perfect for first-timers or anyone craving authentic experiences outside of the usual tourist spots.

Good To Know

• Authentic farm experience with exclusive access to a working sheep and cattle farm
• High-quality local wine tasting in Waipara Valley, featuring a variety of regional wines
• Beautiful scenic stops including Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Louises Lookout
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories about New Zealand rural life and wine
• Well-organized itinerary blending farm visits, wine, and city highlights
• Value for money at around $183, given the diverse experiences, guided tours, and tastings

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting bright and early at 9:30am, the tour kicks off with a charming 15-minute stop at Amberley, where you meet Donnie, the adorable pony. Guests often mention feeding him carrots as a delightful start to the day, setting a friendly tone for what’s ahead. It’s a quick but memorable introduction to rural life, and a wonderful photo opportunity, especially if you’re traveling with kids or animal lovers.

Next, the heart of the tour: Glenafric Working Sheep Farm in Waipara Valley. This is where you get a real taste of farm life—not just observing but actively engaging with the land and animals. Visitors are given exclusive access, meaning no crowds, just a genuine family-run farm environment. You’ll see sheep and lambs, cattle, and working dogs in action, with the chance to watch a sheep shearer demonstrate his craft. Several reviews highlight this as a personal and authentic experience; one guest even mentioned they could hold a lamb, making the visit a hands-on, memorable highlight.

The farm tour lasts around two hours, and guides like James are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Guests often comment on how James makes everything accessible and interesting, sharing stories of farm life passed down through generations. The views from the farm are striking—rolling hills, coastal glimpses, and lush greenery make for a picture-perfect setting.

The Winery Visit

Following the farm tour, you’ll head to Georges Road Winery for about 45 minutes. This stop is more than just a tasting; it’s an education about the Waipara region, renowned for its vibrant wine culture. Guides like Kirk and his team are noted for sharing their expertise openly, making the tasting sessions both informative and enjoyable. Expect to sample wines like Syrah, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir, all against the backdrop of the Three Deans mountain range. Reviewers often describe this as a highlight, praising the variety and quality of wines, as well as the stunning scenery.

City and Garden Highlights

To balance out the farm and wine experience, your guide takes you on a brief walk through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where local flora and the serene Avon River provide a peaceful contrast to the rural scenes. The guide is knowledgeable about Christchurch’s history and architecture, adding context to your visit.

Lastly, the day concludes with a stop at Louises Lookout near the farm, where a picnic-style grazing platter sourced locally offers a satisfying end—think fresh cheeses, meats, and bread, paired with panoramic ocean views. Many reviewers mention the picnic as a surprisingly gourmet experience, elevating what might seem like a simple lunch.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at just over $180 per person, which, considering the full-day itinerary, guided experiences, tastings, and meals, offers excellent value. Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with WiFi provided on board. Pickup is available from a designated Christchurch or Lyttelton cruise ship point, making it accessible and convenient.

The group is capped at 23 travelers, which means you get personalized attention and a more intimate experience. The tour is designed to fit into cruise schedules, ensuring you get back in time, and reviews confirm that the guides are reliable and informative.

Authenticity and What You’re Gaining

Guests consistently mention the personal touch of this tour—farming stories, interactions with the farmer, and the chance to see real working farms. The guides, such as Simon, are praised for their humor, knowledge, and frankness, making the experience friendly and engaging. Reviewers also highlight how the tour offers a chance to see a side of New Zealand that few travelers get to experience—the land, the animals, and the wine—all in one day.

The wine tasting complements the farm visit perfectly, showcasing the region’s reputation for high-quality wines. Several guests note that the variety of wines, including reds like Syrah and whites like Riesling, is a real treat, and the setting provides a picture-perfect backdrop.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Personalized farm visit with exclusive access and interactive elements such as holding a lamb or feeding animals
• Educational wine tasting led by passionate locals, tasting a broad spectrum of regional varieties
• Breathtaking scenery both on the farm and during the stops at Louises Lookout and Christchurch Gardens
• Expert guidance from guides who share stories and answer questions candidly, making everything approachable
• Balanced itinerary that combines rural charm, wine, and city greenery for a well-rounded day
• Convenient scheduling suited for cruise passengers, with timely return to the port

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who want a genuine look at Kiwi farm life without sacrificing comfort or quality. Families and animal lovers will enjoy the hands-on farm experience, while wine enthusiasts can indulge in tastings that highlight the region’s best. It’s perfect for visitors who appreciate scenic stops and want to learn about New Zealand’s agricultural roots while enjoying local produce.

If you’re after a slice of rural New Zealand paired with a bit of luxury, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s also a good choice for travelers with limited time but who still crave an authentic, memorable experience beyond typical sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch offers a compelling mix of authentic farm life, regional wine, and scenic vistas. It balances hands-on experiences with comfort, making it suitable for all kinds of travelers—from families to couples to solo explorers.

The guided farm tour, led by friendly locals like James, turns what could be a simple visit into a deep, personal experience that highlights rural life in New Zealand. The wine tasting adds a layer of sophistication, showcasing the region’s quality produce with stunning mountain views. The city garden and lookout stops round out the day, providing peaceful breaks and beautiful photo opportunities.

At a reasonable price, this tour provides solid value for a full day of sightseeing, learning, and tasting. Whether you’re a farm enthusiast, wine lover, or someone just looking to experience a different side of Christchurch, this trip promises an authentic and memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, with options from Christchurch or a designated cruise ship pickup point at Norwich Quay, Lyttelton.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time, farm visits, winery, and city stops.

What can I expect at Glenafric Sheep Farm?
You’ll see sheep, lambs, cattle, and working dogs in action. Guides like James share stories about farm life, and guests often get to hold lambs or feed animals.

Is wine tasting suitable for children?
While the wine tasting is for adults, children can enjoy other parts of the experience, like the farm visit or playing board games at the winery.

What’s included in the lunch?
A locally sourced grazing platter served picnic-style on the farm, featuring fresh, regional ingredients.

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

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 23 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

This Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch is a fantastic way to learn about New Zealand’s rural charm, enjoy regional wines, and see some of the best scenery around Christchurch. It’s authentic, well-organized, and offers memorable moments for all who choose to go.