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

Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch + Lunch and Winery Visit

If you’re eyeing a taste of rural New Zealand paired with some of the best regional wines, this Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch offers a well-balanced blend of farm life, scenic beauty, and wine tasting. This tour has been rated a perfect 5.0 by travelers who appreciate intimate encounters with farms, knowledgeable guides, and stunning vineyard vistas.

We love that it combines authentic farm experiences with delicious local food and well-curated wine tastings. The inclusion of exclusive access to a working sheep and cattle farm makes this stand out among typical day trips. Plus, the opportunity to explore Christchurch’s highlights beforehand is a big bonus.

One possible drawback is the relatively full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a packed schedule. If you’re eager to see the countryside, learn about local agriculture, and enjoy some top-notch wines, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who crave a personal, hands-on side of New Zealand—farm lovers, wine enthusiasts, or curious travelers wanting to escape the city bustle.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience with exclusive access to a working sheep and cattle farm
• Delicious locally sourced lunch with ocean views
• Wine tasting at an award-winning winery in Waipara Valley, with a stunning mountain backdrop
• Beautiful Christchurch highlights including Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights and personal touches
• Flexible pickup and mobile tickets for seamless planning

Introduction to the Day Trip

This Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch offers a perfect way to blend farm life, scenic beauty, and wine indulgence in one day. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on seeing how New Zealand’s rural communities operate or if you’re a wine lover eager to taste regional varieties.

What makes this tour stand out is its genuine farm experience — you’re not just passively observing but actively engaging, whether by feeding sheep, watching a shearer in action, or riding on a custom-built trailer around the farm. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the farm visit both educational and fun.

Adding to the experience, you’ll enjoy a picnic-style lunch with local produce while taking in ocean views, then wind down with tastings at Georges Road Winery. The variety packed into a seven-hour window means you get a taste of everything: rural life, natural beauty, and fine wines.

However, keep in mind that the full day can be quite active, so pacing yourself is key. If you prefer a more relaxed itinerary, you might find the schedule a little tight, but for most, the balance hits the spot.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Amberley and Donnie the Pony

Your day begins with a quick stop in Amberley, where you get to meet Donnie, the tour’s star pony. Feeding him carrots is a charming introduction to the countryside vibe. This 15-minute stop sets a friendly tone and provides some lighthearted photos and interaction.

Stop 2: Glenafric Working Sheep Farm

The heart of the tour is the two-hour visit to Glenafric, a genuine family-run farm in Waipara Valley. Here, you’ll have exclusive access to a working farm supporting three generations. Unlike large, commercial farms, Glenafric offers a personal touch that travelers consistently praise.

What makes this stop special is the chance to see sheep, lambs, cattle, and working dogs in action. Visitors love the opportunity to feed pet sheep, which is often highlighted as a highlight by reviewers. As Helen_H noted, “lovely scenery and a very personal experience,” including “gorgeous bay views” and engaging farm facts.

You’ll also observe a sheep shearer in action, which adds a genuine sense of rural life. The farm tour includes vintage tractors and insights into how the farm’s geology influences its operations—details that reveal the depth of local knowledge from the farmers.

Stop 3: Georges Road Wines

Following the farm visit, you’ll head to Georges Road Winery, where you’ll meet Kirk and his team. This 45-minute stop is more than just a tasting session—it’s an educational experience where guides explain why Waipara is such a respected wine region.

Expect to sample a variety of wines: Rosé, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. Reviewers rave about the quality, with many noting the “excellent wine selection” and the opportunity to purchase full bottles directly from the gift shop. The views of the Three Deans mountain range provide a picture-perfect backdrop that enhances the tasting experience.

Stop 4: Christchurch Botanic Gardens

The final stop is a short guided tour of Christchurch Botanic Gardens, led by a local guide. This stops offers a peaceful contrast to the farm and winery, showcasing Christchurch’s lush greenery and Gothic architecture. It’s a relaxing way to wind down and reflect on the day.

Practical Details and What You Get

This private tour is priced at $179.58 per person, which includes all major highlights: snacks, locally sourced lunch, wine tasting, transportation, and guided experiences. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort despite the busy schedule.

The pickup service adds convenience, and the mobile ticket option makes planning easier. The tour is designed for most travelers, including service animals, and lasts about 7 hours—so be prepared for a full, engaging day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are snacks, the picnic lunch, wine tasting, air-conditioned transport, exclusive farm access, and WiFi on board. Tips are not included, but the value here is clear—combining farm life, scenic vistas, and top-notch wines at this price is quite competitive.

Authentic Experiences and Why They Matter

Reviewers consistently note the personal touch of this tour, from guides like Simon, who “made sure my Coeliac husband was well taken care of,” to the farm’s hands-on activities like feeding sheep and sitting with ocean views. Such direct interactions make the experience memorable and meaningful, especially for those wanting more than just sightseeing.

The quality of wine at Georges Road Wines also receives high praise, with the tasting experience described as both relaxed and informative. The stunning mountain scenery in Waipara enhances the wine tasting, making each sip more enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a well-rounded glimpse of rural New Zealand, complemented by excellent local wines. It’s particularly suited for those interested in agriculture, food, and wine, or anyone wanting a more authentic, less commercialized experience.

The private nature of the tour means a more personalized experience, which is often reflected in rave reviews about guides like Zoe and Simon. If you enjoy interactive activities and learning about local life, this trip checks those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch offers genuine rural immersion, scenic beauty, and an impressive wine experience, all packed into a well-organized package. The combination of personal farm encounters, scenic vineyard views, and Christchurch highlights makes it a versatile choice for many travelers.

The value for money is evident—especially considering the exclusive access to a working farm, the quality of wines, and the thoughtfully curated lunch. It’s an ideal way to step outside the city and see a side of New Zealand that’s authentic, educational, and downright enjoyable.

If you’re seeking a day of scenic beauty, farm life, and wine tasting, this tour is worth considering for your Christchurch itinerary. Just bring your curiosity and a camera—you’ll want to remember these views and moments long after the day ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned vehicle pickup and drop-off, making getting to and from the various stops seamless.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, farm visits, wine tasting, and Christchurch highlights.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, specific age restrictions aren’t listed. Kids who enjoy animals, the outdoors, and wine tastings (with supervision) will likely enjoy it.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers snacks, a picnic lunch, wine tastings, transportation, exclusive farm access, a guide, and WiFi onboard.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase full-size bottles at Georges Road Wines after tasting.

Are tips included?
No, tipping is optional and not included in the price.

Is the farm experience authentic?
Absolutely. Reviewers highlight the farm’s personal approach, with interactions with sheep, lambs, and working dogs—making it a genuine rural experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for farm activities and outdoor walking is recommended. Layering is wise, as New Zealand weather can change quickly.

This day trip balances education, scenic views, and authentic farm life, making it a top choice for those wanting a multi-faceted experience near Christchurch.