Marlborough Sheep Station Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Blenheim and want to experience more than just the vineyards, this Marlborough Sheep Station Tour might be just the ticket. It promises a chance to see a working, family-owned sheep station that’s been in operation for five generations, paired with some of the region’s best local wines and a touch of sweet indulgence at the Makana Chocolate Factory.

From what we gather, this tour offers a blend of authentic farm life, engaging sheepdog demonstrations, and a relaxed, scenic lunch at a renowned winery restaurant. It’s a day that combines rural charm with a hint of gourmet, making it appealing for those looking to get off the beaten path while still enjoying Marlborough’s signature flavors.

What really stands out? The chance to see sheepdogs in action and enjoy an up-close shearing demo give this tour a tangible farm experience that many visitors crave. Plus, the inclusion of wine tastings at a vineyard setting makes it feel like a well-rounded taste of Marlborough. On the flip side, the price might seem a bit steep for some, especially considering the limited reviews so far.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a mix of rural life and regional wine, especially those who enjoy a leisurely, small-group experience—since it caps at just 10 people. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate good food and sweet treats, making it a solid choice for a relaxed yet engaging day out.

Key Points

• Authentic farm visit with a family-owned sheep station, offering a glimpse into traditional sheep farming.
• Sheepdog demonstrations and shearing provide engaging, up-close insights into rural skills.
• Quality wine pairing at a well-regarded winery restaurant, with local wines to taste alongside your lunch.
• Sweet ending with a visit to Makana Chocolate Factory, satisfying any sweet tooth.
• Small group size (max 10 travelers) means more personal attention and fewer crowds.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect on the Tour

Discovering Marlborough Beyond the Vines

This tour kicks off around 9:30 am, giving you a solid morning start to dive into Marlborough’s farming scene. The first stop is a working sheep station that has been run by the same family for five generations, offering travelers a rare opportunity to see traditional sheep farming in action. You’ll get a chance to meet the farmers, learn about local farm practices, and spend some quality time with the animals.

The farm visit is the heart of the experience, with highlights like sheepdog demonstrations, which are often a crowd favorite. These loyal herding dogs showcase their skills, guiding sheep with impressive precision—truly something to watch if you appreciate well-trained animals. The shearing demo offers a tangible connection to farm life, allowing you to see the craft of wool harvesting up close.

Savoring the Marlborough Flavors

After the farm visit, you’ll head to a renowned winery restaurant set in the vineyards. Here, the tour includes a seasonal, local wine-paired lunch. The setting is relaxed, with vineyard views that make the meal special. This part of the day isn’t just about eating; it’s about appreciating Marlborough’s celebrated wine culture. The focus on local wines and a good-quality meal makes this a highlight for wine lovers.

Indulgence at Makana Chocolate Factory

The tour wraps up with a sweet note at the Makana Chocolate Factory. Their offerings are known to be delicious, and a visit here is always a treat—literally. It’s a perfect spot to indulge slightly after a day of farm and wine tasting, leaving you with a memorable, satisfying ending.

The Practicalities

Duration and Group Size

The whole experience lasts about 6 hours, making it a manageable day trip. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the group is intimate enough for personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The tour includes pickup options, which adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate Blenheim area.

Pricing and Value

At $155.14 per person, this tour might seem a bit on the higher side, but when you break down what’s included—sheep farm visit, sheepdog demos, shearing, a quality lunch with wine tastings, and chocolate—it’s fairly competitive. The small group size, personalized feel, and the chance to combine rural life with regional wineries add to the overall value.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the experience depends on good weather, it’s worth noting that if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’re offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, which offers some peace of mind.

Suitability and Considerations

While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for most travelers who enjoy animals, wine, and relaxed sightseeing. If you’re keen on seeing sheepdogs and shearing demonstrations, this is a straightforward, no-fuss option. Just keep in mind that the experience is quite rural and outdoors, so good weather helps make the most of it.

Why We Think You’ll Like This Tour

We appreciate how this tour combines authentic farm experiences with wine and sweet treats—it’s more than just a vineyard hop. The authentic sheep station visit and sheepdog demos are genuine highlights that bring farm life to life, especially if you’re interested in rural traditions or want to see a family-run operation in action.

The wine tasting paired with a scenic lunch offers a taste of Marlborough’s renowned wine scene in a relaxed setting. The quality of the wines and the picturesque vineyard backdrop make this part memorable. Plus, finishing up with chocolate from Makana adds that extra bit of indulgence—what’s not to love?

However, the tour’s higher price point and limited reviews mean you should weigh whether the farm experience and intimate group size are worth it for you. If you’re after a full-on vineyard tour or a more active, outdoor adventure, you might find other options, but for a balanced mix of farm life, fine wine, and sweets, this one hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This Marlborough Sheep Station Tour offers a rare peek into the rural side of Marlborough, paired with some of the region’s best wine and a delicious chocolate treat. It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of outdoor, authentic farm experiences with a touch of gourmet indulgence. The small group size makes it feel personal and relaxed, ideal for those who appreciate genuine stories and behind-the-scenes moments.

While the price might be a consideration, the combination of sheepdog demos, shearing, wine, and chocolate makes it a well-rounded day out. You’ll go home with more than just photos—you’ll have memories of real farm life, stunning vineyard views, and some tasty local flavors.

If you’re curious about rural traditions, love wine, or just want a different perspective on Marlborough beyond its world-famous vineyards, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby or prefer to avoid organizing transport.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about six hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps keep things personal and intimate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, and you’ll get a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the outdoor farm experience and farm animals could be enjoyable for children, but keep in mind the rural setting and outdoor nature.

What kind of wines are tasted?
The tour features guided tastings of local Marlborough wines, known for their excellent quality, especially Sauvignon Blanc.

How is the food during lunch?
You’ll enjoy a seasonal, local winery lunch with wine pairings—relaxed and flavorful, with vineyard views that add to the experience.

Will I see sheepdogs in action?
Yes, sheepdog demonstrations are part of the experience, showcasing their skills in herding sheep.

This tour strikes a nice balance between farm authenticity and regional indulgence, making it a solid choice if you want to explore Marlborough beyond just wine. It’s a day designed to give you a taste of local farming traditions, some great regional wines, and a memorable sweet finish—all in a small, friendly group.