If you fancy taking a step back in time to see a real working New Zealand farm, jump onboard the TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship and experience a true icon of Queenstown.
You might need a break from all those adrenalin-inducing activities in Queenstown, and the TSS Earnslaw is the perfect way to do it. Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw has been transporting goods and passengers across Lake Wakatipu for more than 90 years. Once you're on board you can watch the stokers refuelling the fireboxes and hear the sound of the steam engines working.
When we arrived at Walter Peak High Country Farm, we were taken on a walking farm tour which was a great way to get aquainted with the animals. We helped feed the sheep and got up close and personal with the deer and Scottish Highland cattle.
There was also a chance to watch sheep dogs in action, see the sheep shearing and try my hand at wool spinning. Wicked
"a delicious selection of tea and cakes. Yum Yum"
Then to finish it off, we had a stroll through the beautiful lakeside gardens to the Colonel's Homestead for a delicious selection of tea and cakes. Yum Yum.
There was also a chance to go on a 40 minute guided horse trek across rolling high country farmland to a lookout with amazing views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. And barbecue lunches or evening meal options are also available.
Trips on the TSS Earnslaw depart from Real Journey's Visitor Centre. Check in 20 mins before departure. Trips start at $45.
Steamship cruises run all year round, at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm daily.
Lake Wakatipu is 84km/52 miles long, and is the second longest lake in New Zealand . It averages 300m/984ft in depth, with a greatest known depth of 410m/1,344ft.
Make sure you bring non-slip shoes/boots, warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen/sunglasses and don't forget your camera.
For more information call 03 442 7500 or Freephone 0800 65 65 03 or visit www.realjourneys.co.nz
Rachel stayed at Base Backpackers Discovery Lodge at 49 Shotover Street , Queenstown, which is a great central location.Reception and internet is open 24 hours, and there's an Altitude bar open daily from 4pm until late. There's also a travel desk open from 8am until 8pm daily. For more details call 03 441 1185 or email: queenstown@stayatbase.com
