Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown

If you’re looking for a well-rounded evening in Queenstown that combines stunning scenery, delicious food, and a taste of rural New Zealand life, this tour might just fit the bill. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a relaxed yet engaging experience that captures the essence of the region. From historic steamship cruises to hearty farm demonstrations, there’s plenty to enjoy.

What makes this experience stand out? We’re talking about spectacular lake views, a buffet featuring local meats and homemade desserts, and an authentic farm show that’s surprisingly entertaining. Plus, you get to choose between a vintage steamship or a modern vessel, depending on your preference.

That said, one thing to consider is the cost—at around $90.86 per person, it’s a good value given the variety of activities. However, if you’re not a fan of large group tours or don’t love farm shows, this might not be your perfect match.

This tour is ideal for food lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful evening with scenic highlights. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to experience Queenstown from the water, with a bonus of farm demonstrations and hearty cuisine.

Key Points

• Stunning lake views and a nostalgic steamship experience make for memorable scenery.
• Hearty buffet dinners including local meats, salads, and desserts are plentiful and high quality.
• Farm demonstrations like sheepshearing and sheepdog shows offer authentic insights into rural life.
• Flexible cruise options: vintage TSS Earnslaw or modern Spirit of Queenstown, depending on your preference.
• Includes live commentary and farm shows, adding informative and fun elements.
• Great value for the variety of experiences packed into four hours.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Evening Out

Board the Vessel and Cross Lake Wakatipu

Your evening begins at the designated meeting point on Beach Street in Queenstown. Whether you opt for the classic TSS Earnslaw, built in 1912 and powered by steaming coal, or the sleek Spirit of Queenstown, the journey across Lake Wakatipu is the highlight. The vintage Earnslaw has a certain charm that appeals to history buffs, with its steam-powered engine and nostalgic ambiance. Reviewers frequently mention the remarkable atmosphere, with one describing the ship as “the grandest vessel ever to cruise the lake,” adding a real sense of stepping back in time.

The cruise itself offers storybook views of the Remarkables mountain range and the surrounding alpine scenery. The narrated commentary, provided by the skipper and farm demonstrator, helps you appreciate the landscape and the history behind the ship. Many reviewers noted that the scenery on the way over was spectacular, with some mentioning the experience of seeing Queenstown from the water as a peaceful, almost meditative, start to the evening.

Arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm

Once docked at Walter Peak, you’ll step off the boat into a charming rural setting. The farm is set on a colonial estate, and the atmosphere is relaxed but lively. As you settle into the Colonels Homestead, the buffet dinner begins. The spread features local meats like lamb and venison, complemented by fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and a selection of homemade desserts.

Reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of the food, with one saying it was “fabulous and delicious,” and another describing it as “hot, plentiful, and with a large variety to choose from.” The meal is served buffet-style, making it easy to sample a bit of everything.

Farm Demos and Entertainment

After your meal, the farm demonstrations start. Expect a sheep shearing show and a sheepdog demonstration, which many reviewers found highly entertaining. Cherie_c called it “the highlight of our trip,” noting the friendly staff and engaging shows. The herding dog, Kim, and his handler put on quite a display, and the sheep shearing was surprisingly quick and skillful.

Some travelers, like Richard_S, appreciated the unexpected bonus of the farm show, saying it added a touch of authenticity and fun to the visit. Others enjoyed the relaxing bar atmosphere afterward, with drinks available for purchase and a chance to unwind after the demos.

Return Trip and Additional Highlights

The cruise back to Queenstown often features live piano music and singalongs, as one reviewer mentioned. The atmosphere is described as “romantic and lively,” with many travelers noting the beautiful night sky views on the return journey, especially if you’ve timed your trip for sunset or after.

The Vessels: Vintage vs. Modern

You can choose between the TSS Earnslaw or the Spirit of Queenstown. The classic Earnslaw offers a nostalgic, almost fairytale-like experience, with the added thrill of watching the engine’s coal shoveling. Many reviews mention how special it feels to step aboard a 1912 steamship, with Kim from Walter Peak describing it as “the most memorable vessel for a lake cruise.”

The Spirit of Queenstown, however, provides a more contemporary, comfortable cruise. It’s ideal if you prefer modern amenities or want a quieter, more streamlined experience. While some purists might prefer the vintage charm, the Spirit still delivers excellent scenery and a smooth ride.

Food and Drink: Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $90 per person, this tour offers a good deal considering the multiple elements involved. The buffet’s quality and variety are frequently highlighted. Guests rave about the fabulous spread with local meats, fresh salads, and irresistible desserts. The inclusion of tea and coffee also rounds out the meal nicely.

However, drinks are not included, and reviews suggest you should budget extra if you want wine, beer, or other beverages. The bar offers a range of options, and many guests found it a perfect way to unwind after the farm demonstrations.

Authentic and Filling

One reviewer particularly appreciated that the dinner is served at a colonial estate rather than on the boat itself, which elevates the dining experience. Many also comment that the food exceeded expectations for a tour of this kind, making it excellent value for money.

The Farm Show: Authentic, Fun, and Educational

The farm demonstrations are broad and engaging. Expect sheep shearing, where the shearer is quick and skillful, and sheepdog trials that showcase the intelligence and agility of the working dogs.

Cherie_c described the farm show as “an actual bonus,” and many found it surprisingly entertaining and authentic. Kim, the herding dog, is a real star—many reviewers mention how impressive his skills are. The sheep shearing is quick, but the demonstration is clear and informative, giving visitors a glimpse into real farm life.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: Approximately 4 hours, which makes it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed.

Meeting Point: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown—easy to find and central.

Booking: The tour is cash-free, so bring a card. It also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind.

Group Size: Limited to 100 travelers, so it’s intimate enough to avoid feeling crowded.

Minimum Age: 18+ for alcohol consumption, but children are welcome with adults.

Note: The TSS Earnslaw will be undergoing scheduled maintenance from May 19 to October 1, 2025; during this period, the modern vessel is available throughout.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxing evening with scenic views, hearty food, and farm demonstrations, this experience hits all the right notes. The combination of a historic steamship cruise, a delicious buffet, and authentic farm entertainment makes for a well-rounded outing in Queenstown.

It’s especially suited to foodies, history lovers, and those wanting a peaceful yet engaging activity. Travelers who enjoy beautiful lake scenery will find this a highlight, and many reviews highlight how memorable and enjoyable the experience is.

On the flip side, if you’re not keen on large groups or farm shows, or if you prefer a more casual, low-key evening, this tour might not be your perfect match. Also, keep in mind it’s an evening activity, so if you prefer daytime adventures, consider the daytime cruise options.

Overall, for its blend of scenery, cuisine, and farm fun, this tour offers standout value and a wonderful taste of Queenstown’s rural charm.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum age to consume alcohol is 18, but kids can enjoy the scenery and farm demonstrations.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a scenic lake cruise (either vintage or modern vessel), a buffet dinner featuring local meats and desserts, live commentary on board, and farm demonstrations.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the ticket price. You can purchase beverages at the bar after dinner.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the activity. You will receive a full refund if canceled within this window.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts around 4 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the cruise, dinner, and farm show without feeling rushed.

What vessels are used for the cruise?
You can choose between the classic, coal-powered TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown. The Earnslaw offers nostalgic charm, while the Spirit provides a sleek, comfortable experience.

This experience is a balanced mix of scenic beauty, authentic farm entertainment, and hearty New Zealand cuisine — ideal for travelers seeking a memorable, laid-back evening in Queenstown.