Maramatata Farm

Maramatata Farm is a working high-country sheep and beef station that offers a genuine slice of New Zealand rural life, just a short drive from Hanmer Springs. Here, you can experience the raw beauty of the Canterbury foothills, meet friendly farm animals, and soak up the sort of wide-open landscapes that define the South Island. It’s an ideal stop for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about life on the land.

Highlights & What to See

• Farm Tours – Jump on a 4WD or tractor-drawn trailer for a guided tour across the station, with commentary on farming practices, local history, and the surrounding peaks.
• Animal Encounters – Get up close with sheep, cattle, alpacas, and working dogs. Kids (and adults) love feeding the lambs and bottle-feeding calves during spring.
• Breathtaking Vistas – The farm sits at the foot of the Hanmer Range, with panoramic views over the Waiau Valley. Bring your camera for golden-hour shots of the patchwork paddocks.
• Sheep Shearing Demos – Watch a master shearer in action, learning about wool production and the skill behind the blades.
• Historic Woolshed – Explore the charming old woolshed, complete with shearing stands and wool presses that tell the story of New Zealand’s pastoral heritage.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate around 1.5 to 2 hours for a farm tour and animal interactions. If you’re combining with a soak in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools or a walk in the forest, a half-day trip is perfect. The farm operates on a schedule, so check tour times in advance to plan your day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – Unwind in the famous thermal pools, explore the village’s cafés and shops, or try mountain biking on the nearby trails.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge – A historic bridge and picnic spot on the Waiau River, great for a short stop and river views.
• Conway River Valley – Drive through this scenic valley for more high-country landscapes and a taste of rural isolation.
• Kaikōura – About an hour north, Kaikōura offers whale watching, seal colonies, and spectacular coastal scenery – a rewarding day trip from Hanmer Springs.
• Hanmer Forest Park – Explore walking trails through towering redwoods and native bush, with options from short loops to longer hikes.

Please check official sources for current details.