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

If you’re after a day that mixes rural charm, local flavors, and a bit of scenic beauty, this Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch might just be worth considering. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it seems to strike a good balance between authentic farm experiences, tasty food, and wine tasting—perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of New Zealand life outside the city.

What really stands out about this trip are the personal connection to local families on the farm and the opportunity to sample regional wines with stunning views in the background. We also appreciate how the tour is designed with easy logistics—such as pickup services and a compact group size—that make the day smooth and stress-free.

Of course, no experience is perfect, and one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is focused on rural and scenic highlights, so if you’re after a more urban or adrenaline-pumping adventure, this might not be your best fit. This trip caters well to those looking for a relaxed, authentic, and culturally rich day out, especially if you appreciate good food, wine, and scenic views.

If that sounds like your kind of day, you’ll probably find this tour a rewarding, memorable addition to your Christchurch itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience with family-run sheep and cattle farms
• Expert guides provide local insights and warm hospitality
• Beautiful scenery including ocean views and mountain backdrops
• Tasty, locally sourced lunch served picnic-style on the farm
• Wine tasting in Waipara Valley with renowned regional varietals
• Convenient logistics with pickup and small group size for personalized service

An in-Depth Look at the Sheep Farm Day Trip

Getting Started: What to Expect on the Day

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am, with a pickup that usually includes an air-conditioned vehicle and WiFi, making the journey comfortable and informative from the start. You’re likely to meet your guide, who’s friendly and knowledgeable, as many reviews praise guides like Simon for their professionalism and local insights.

The first stop is Amberley, where you’ll meet Donnie, a cheerful pony. Feeding him a carrot is a simple but memorable way to start the day. It’s a quick 15-minute stop, so don’t expect an elaborate experience here, but it sets a relaxed, friendly tone.

Visiting the Glenafric Sheep Farm

The heart of this tour is the visit to Glenafric Working Sheep Farm in Waipara Valley. This isn’t just a farm vista—it’s a working farm that has been supported by three generations of families. Here, you get exclusive access, which means you’ll see things most travelers don’t get to, like sheep shearing demonstrations, working farm dogs in action, and even the chance to hold a lamb, which delighted many reviewers.

We loved the way the farm offers a personal, authentic look at New Zealand rural life. The farmer, James, is friendly and willing to answer questions, making it feel less like a scripted tour and more like visiting a friend’s farm. Reviewers mention the experience of feeding pet sheep, watching sheep shearing, and learning about the land and farm operations—these are the kind of genuine moments you’ll cherish.

Scenic Picnic Lunch

After the farm visit, it’s time for a locally sourced grazing platter served picnic-style on Louise’s Lookout. The views of the ocean from here are a real highlight, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. Many reviews rave about the quality of the lunch, describing it as a “great organic boxed lunch,” and appreciating the fresh, local ingredients.

Explore Waipara Valley Wines

Following lunch, the trip continues to Georges Road Winery, a well-regarded winery in the Waipara region. Here, you’ll meet Kirk and his team, who will guide you through tasting some of the area’s best wines, including Syrah, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir. The region is praised for its quality wine production, and this stop gives you a taste of what makes Waipara special.

Many reviews note that the wine tastings are diverse and well-presented. Even if you’re not a wine drinker, the experience of learning about the region’s terroir and seeing the vineyard’s backdrop against the Three Deans mountain range adds a layer of appreciation.

Final Touches: Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Optional Extras

The tour wraps up with a short, guided walk through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. It’s a quick overview—about 20 minutes—yet enough to enjoy the lush greenery, beautiful flower displays, and Gothic architecture in the background. It’s a peaceful way to conclude the day, especially with the guide sharing local insights.

How the Experience Comes Together

This tour’s value lies in its authenticity and variety. For around $183, you get a full day of rural farm life, scenic views, tasty local food, and wine tasting—all integrated seamlessly with professional guides. The small group size (maximum 23 travelers) means more personalized attention, and the option for pickup, especially for those on cruise ships, makes logistics straightforward.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Simon and James, who bring enthusiasm and real insight to each stop. Many mention how these personal stories and hands-on experiences elevate the trip from a simple sightseeing tour to a memorable, authentic day.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

While the experience is highly rated and seems well-designed, some might find the focus on rural scenery and farm life a little slow-paced if they prefer a more active or fast-paced day. Also, the price includes wine tastings and a picnic lunch, so if you’re not into wine or want more elaborate meals, this might feel more casual than gourmet.

However, for those who relish local flavors, scenic landscapes, and learning about farm life firsthand, this tour offers excellent value.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy authentic, behind-the-scenes experiences. If you’re curious about rural New Zealand, love tasting regional wines, and want a relaxed, scenic day out, this is a good pick. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers or anyone staying in Christchurch who wants a well-rounded, local-focused day.

It’s less suitable if you’re after adrenaline, nightlife, or urban exploration, but if your idea of a perfect day involves beautiful views, good company, and authentic stories, you’ll probably leave feeling quite satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and while it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, kids often enjoy meeting the animals and exploring the farm. However, it’s best to check with the provider if you have very young children.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, the wine tastings at Georges Road Winery are included in the tour price, and you’ll taste several regional varietals, including Syrah, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, farm visit, lunch, winery, and a short walk through Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

Is lunch vegetarian or gluten-free?
The lunch is a locally sourced grazing platter served picnic-style. One reviewer mentioned their Coeliac husband was well taken care of, which suggests some dietary accommodations are possible—it’s best to confirm in advance.

What kind of transportation is used?
An air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi is provided, making the journey comfortable and connected.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes for farm walking, a hat, sunscreen, and possibly a camera. Snacks are provided, so you won’t need to bring extra food.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and guides are known for making everyone feel welcome.

How far in advance should I book?
Since the tour is popular and books often 5+ times a week, it’s wise to reserve as early as possible, especially in peak seasons.

What if I’m not a wine drinker?
Even if you don’t indulge in wine, the winery stop offers a chance to learn about the region and enjoy the scenic vineyard views. The farm experience itself is engaging regardless of wine tastings.

Final Thoughts

This Sheep Farm Day Trip offers a genuine slice of New Zealand rural life paired with spectacular scenery and regional flavors. It’s well-suited for travelers looking to slow down, learn, and enjoy authentic local experiences. The combination of a working farm, scenic picnic, and winery makes it a well-rounded day that feels personal and special.

While it might not appeal to those seeking high-energy adventures or gourmet dining, for those who love nature, history, and good stories, this trip hits the right notes. Expect friendly guides, stunning views, and a chance to connect with the land and people of Canterbury in a meaningful way.

If you’re in Christchurch and craving a peaceful, culturally rich escape that captures the true spirit of New Zealand’s countryside, this tour could be your perfect match.