Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw and visit to the Walter Peak High Country Farm – afternoon

Join a historic cruise on the TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the farm’s work in conservation and ecotourism.

The TSS Earnslaw is an important part of Queenstown’s pioneering history and remains a true icon of the town to this day.

The ship was commissioned by New Zealand Railways to serve the communities around Lake Whakatipu. Launched in the same year as the Titanic, the TSS Earnslaw made her maiden voyage on 18 October 1912.

Soon she became affectionately known as “The Lady of the Lake”, acting as a vital lifeline between the isolated farming communities along the lake and the outside world. At 48 metres long, she was the largest vessel on the lake and carried passengers, sheep, cattle, mail, and supplies.

In 1968, the ship came close to being scrapped, but was saved and purchased by RealNZ, who returned her to service carrying passengers on lake cruises. Since then, the TSS Earnslaw has been lovingly restored to her original condition – almost everything you see today is as it was a century ago. Today, the TSS Earnslaw is the only coal-fired steamship still operating in the southern hemisphere, making a cruise aboard her a truly unique experience.

The boat trip across Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak takes around 45 minutes. During the journey, you can visit the ship’s engine room, take in the views from the deck, or relax with a refreshment from the small café on board.

Walter Peak High Country Farm is set in beautiful surroundings at the foot of the 1,800-metre-high Walter Peak mountain. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a host who will take you on a guided walk through the lush gardens, orchards, and beehives. Along the way, you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the area’s history and ecosystem – including ongoing efforts to remove invasive trees and restore the natural landscape by planting native species. You’ll also have the chance to choose and plant a small New Zealand tree or shrub in the farm’s nursery, contributing to the restoration of natural habitats and helping attract birdlife back to the area.

After the tour, you’ll be treated to a traditional high tea featuring home-grown and locally sourced delights – including their very own Walter Peak honey.

Afterwards, the tour returns to Queenstown aboard the historic steamship.

Start and end point: RealNZ Queenstown Visitor Centre, Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street (address and time are also stated on your voucher). Please note that you are responsible for your own transport to and from the departure point. Meeting time is 20 minutes before departure.

Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours (around 3:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.)

Price includes: Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw, guided tour of Walter Peak High Country Farm, tree planting, as well as high tea and a light meal.

Remember to bring: Weather-appropriate clothing and practical footwear.

Note: The tour departs daily from 1 December to 12 April (except on 25 December). If the TSS Earnslaw is in dock for maintenance, the cruise will be replaced by the Spirit of Queenstown catamaran.