THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of Paradise Valley on this exclusive half-day farm tour. Perfect for nature lovers and film fans alike, it offers a unique window into rural New Zealand life and epic mountain views.
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of Paradise Valley on this exclusive half-day farm tour. Perfect for nature lovers and film fans alike, it offers a unique window into rural New Zealand life and epic mountain views.
Book with Private Discovery Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Private Discovery Tours · Queenstown, Otago
Nestled in the rugged beauty of Paradise Valley, the High Country Discovery Tour offers a half-day journey into one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. This experience centers around Mount Earnslaw Station, a working farm rich in history and character, providing visitors with a rare glimpse into rural Kiwi life. The tour’s small-group format, limited to four guests, ensures personalized attention and an intimate connection with the environment.
What makes this adventure truly stand out are the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, with the towering peaks of the Southern Alps as a dramatic backdrop. As you traverse the property, guides share stories of local history and farming heritage, making each stop feel like uncovering hidden chapters of the region’s story. A highlight is the film location sites from Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, offering prime photo opportunities for fans and nature lovers alike. The diverse flora, including native beech forests and alpine shrublands, creates a vibrant setting for wildlife sightings and quiet reflection.
This trip is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching outdoor experience that combines scenic beauty with cultural insight. It stands as a unique offering in New Zealand’s adventure scene, balancing active exploration with comfortable touring. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast eager to capture the dramatic vistas or a history buff interested in local lore, the High Country Discovery Tour delivers a memorable day in the outdoors.
The farm’s remote location ensures a peaceful escape, far from busy tourist spots, making this an ideal addition to your New Zealand itinerary. The guides’ passion for the land and its stories makes every moment engaging and authentic. It’s more than just a farm visit; it’s a step into the heart of New Zealand’s wilderness and rural history, with breathtaking scenery around every bend.
easy.
4–5 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; light walking involved
The tour is suitable for most ages, though young children should be supervised.
Bring layers, a camera, and sunglasses; the guides will provide safety instructions.
This is a half-day tour; no meals are included, but water is available.
Custom requests can be discussed with the guides ahead of time.
Some farm areas are accessible, but please notify us in advance for arrangements.
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled in severe weather; check the forecast.
Mount Earnslaw Station has been operating since the early 20th century, with a rich history as a working farm and a filming location for iconic movies.
The farm promotes sustainable agriculture practices and participates in local conservation efforts to protect native flora and fauna.
Private Discovery Tours is a Queenstown‑based operator delivering tailored small‑group and private experiences across Queenstown and the broader Otago region. The company offers guided walks, scenic road journeys and exclusive access to high‑country farms and historic stations. Signature experiences include explorations of the Routeburn Track, Paradise Valley and Mount Earnslaw Station, plus film‑location visits to iconic Lord of the Rings sites around Arrowtown and Skippers Canyon. Local guides provide context on New Zealand flora and fauna, gold‑mining history and cinematic filming locations. Tours depart from Queenstown with durations ranging from half‑day outings to full‑day hikes. Group sizes are kept intentionally small: some tours cap guests at four while others accept up to ten, ensuring a personalized guiding experience and easier access to private farmland and station areas. Specified departures include on‑tour commentary, refreshments or afternoon tea; certain lunches are available at additional cost. Booking options include scheduled small‑group departures and fully private designed tours tailored to individual interests, single‑day requests or multi‑day arrangements. Safety, local expertise and respect for conservation areas guide operations. Private Discovery Tours focuses on delivering memorable outdoor experiences around Queenstown’s lakes, valleys and iconic trails while maintaining responsible tourism practices.
Book with Private Discovery Tours