Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown

If you’re planning a trip to Queenstown and looking for a memorable evening activity, the dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm combined with a lake cruise might just catch your eye. Plenty of travelers rave about this experience, and with good reason. It’s a blend of stunning scenery, tasty food, and engaging farm demonstrations — all in a single evening.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the charm of a vintage steamship cruise with the hands-on fun of farm shows, like sheep herding and shearing. Plus, the buffet meal is consistently praised for its variety and quality. That said, it’s worth mentioning that if you’re not a fan of crowds or you prefer more intimate experiences, this might feel a bit busy.

This tour suits those who want a well-rounded, entertaining evening that blends history, nature, and good food — especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a bit of variety in their outings.

Key Points

• Scenic Lake Journey: The cruise offers beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains, making it a photographer’s delight.
• Historical Charm: Whether you pick the vintage TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown, the boat ride adds a unique touch to your evening.
• Delicious Buffet Dinner: The buffet features local meats, salads, vegetables, and desserts, often praised for its quality and variety.
• Farm Demonstrations: Sheep herding and shearing shows add an interactive, fun element, with knowledgeable farm staff and impressive working dogs.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: After dinner, you can chill at the bar, enjoy the farm grounds, or watch the farm shows at your leisure.
• Good Value: For around $117, you get a full evening of scenery, entertainment, and food — many reviews say it’s worth the price.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point and Booking

The tour begins at 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, where you’ll meet your group. Most travelers find it easy to book online, as it’s cash-free, making check-in smooth. The activity lasts about 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to unwind and enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

The Lake Cruise

Your experience kicks off with a cruise across Lake Wakatipu. You’ll have a choice between the historic TSS Earnslaw, a 1912 coal-powered steamship, or the Spirit of Queenstown, a sleek, modern vessel. The TSS Earnslaw is often highlighted as a grand, authentic experience, with its engine room and vintage charm. One reviewer described it as “the grandest vessel ever to cruise Lake Wakatipu,” adding that the boat’s history makes the ride more special.

If you opt for the steamship, you’ll enjoy the nostalgic feel of shoveling coal into the furnace and watching the engine come to life. The boat ride provides stellar views of the Remarkables mountain range and the sprawling lake scenery. It’s also narrated, so you’ll learn a bit about the area’s natural features and history along the way.

Arrival at Walter Peak High Country Farm

Once at Walter Peak Wharf, you’ll step into the Colonels Homestead, which sets a cozy, inviting tone for dinner. The buffet here is a highlight, with many praising the variety and quality of the food. Expect local meats, salads, vegetables, and an inviting selection of desserts. Several reviews call it “amazing,” noting the plentiful and fresh options, with some mentioning how “you could go back for seconds,” which adds to the feeling of good value.

Farm Demonstrations and Shows

After filling your plate, it’s time for some farm entertainment. Visitors love the sheep herding and shearing shows, often describing them as “cool” and “highly entertaining.” The working dogs, especially Australian border collies, tend to steal the show, demonstrating impressive herding skills, sometimes even in challenging weather conditions. One reviewer praised Mia, the farm dog, saying, “she did such a good job even in the rainy weather.”

You might also get to wander the farm grounds, see the gardens, or chat with the demonstrators. The farm show is designed to be both fun and informative, providing insight into farm life in this part of New Zealand.

Relaxation and Optional Extras

Post-dinner, many sit in the bar area, order drinks, and soak in the farm atmosphere. If you’re not in a rush, you can linger and enjoy the scenery or watch the demonstrations again. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to spend as much or as little time on the farm as you like before heading back to Queenstown.

The Return Journey

The cruise back is equally scenic, with sunset often providing a spectacular backdrop. Reviews mention the “sun setting behind the boat,” creating a peaceful and picturesque end to the evening. The modern Spirit of Queenstown offers a sleek, comfortable ride if you prefer contemporary design over vintage charm.

The Experience: Why Travelers Keep Coming Back

What makes this tour stand out is its well-rounded nature. The cruise on Lake Wakatipu is visually stunning, offering postcard-perfect views of mountains and water. Many reviews mention how “the views of the landscape around the lake were awesome,” and the boat’s narration adds context to the scenery.

The buffet dinner is another highlight, consistently praised for its variety, freshness, and generous portions. It’s clear that the chefs take pride in sourcing quality ingredients, and you’ll likely find something to suit your taste — whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or someone with a sweet tooth.

The farm demonstrations are a bit of a surprise for many visitors — they’re more than just entertainment; they’re an insight into rural life and farming practices in New Zealand. The sheep herding, shearing, and working dog shows get glowing reviews, with many describing them as “cool,” “entertaining,” and “impressively done.” For families or curious travelers, these demonstrations add a memorable, interactive layer to the evening.

The Value of the Experience

At approximately $117.29 per person, this experience offers significant value. You’re getting a scenic cruise, a hearty buffet dinner, and engaging farm shows — all in a single package. Several reviews note that it’s “worth the price,” especially considering the quality of the food and the variety of activities packed into four hours.

Of course, the tour is popular and can get busy — some mention arriving early to secure a good seat or table. But most agree that the experience’s overall quality makes it worthwhile.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred vessel and seating.
• The buffet is all-you-can-eat, so come hungry, but be mindful of timing if you’re sensitive to crowds.
• Dress for the weather — layers are wise since the evening can be cool, especially outside during the cruise.
• Note that the TSS Earnslaw undergoes scheduled maintenance from May to October 2025, but the Spirit of Queenstown is available throughout that period.
• Drinks are not included in the price, but you can purchase them at the bar after dinner.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but children under 18 cannot consume alcohol, and supervision is required for young kids.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a combination of scenic beauty, delicious local food, and engaging farm demonstrations. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy a bit of history and a lively, social atmosphere. The mix of vintage and modern ships offers options depending on your preference, and the hearty buffet ensures everyone leaves satisfied.

While it’s not an adventure sport or adrenaline rush, it offers a relaxing way to spend an evening soaking in Queenstown’s stunning natural environment. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even as a solo traveler looking for a well-rounded night out, this tour checks many boxes.

It’s also an excellent choice if you want to experience local farming culture firsthand or simply enjoy a calm, scenic cruise with a delicious meal. Be prepared for a lively, busy environment, but know that most guests find it highly enjoyable and worth the experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join the tour, but note that kids under 18 cannot consume alcohol. It’s a family-friendly experience with farm demonstrations and scenic views that kids often find engaging.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour takes about 4 hours from start to finish, including the cruise, dinner, farm show, and return journey.

What vessel options are available?
You can choose between the vintage TSS Earnslaw steamship or the Spirit of Queenstown, a modern vessel. The steamship offers a nostalgic experience, while the modern boat provides sleek comfort.

What does the buffet dinner include?
Expect a variety of local meats, salads, vegetables, and delicious desserts. Many reviews highlight the quality and abundance of the food, with options for different tastes.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price but are available for purchase at the bar after dinner.

What about weather considerations?
The experience requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, a minimum number of travelers is needed for the tour to run. If canceled due to low numbers, you’ll be offered an alternative or refund.

This trip offers a really nice snapshot of Queenstown’s scenery, local culture, and good food — all wrapped into one evening. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience, it’s worth considering for your trip.