Excursion The road to mesopotamia tour at Timaru

Escape the crowds as we take you on a journey up the glacially carved Rangitata River Valley to visit the historic Mesopotamia sheep station located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

Peel Forest Park, Mesopotamia Sheep Station and Lord of the Rings

Our first stop is visiting the Peel Forest Park with its ancient native forest, a chance for a short forest walk to see the 1000-year-old Totara tree or enjoy the birdsong of the native bellbird, perhaps even an encounter with a fantail or native kereru (Wood Pigeon). After leaving Peel Forest Park, we pass by other sheep, beef, and deer stations, starting with the historic Mt Peel Station. As many of the stations operate their own game parks, we can often see wild game and trophy animals in the paddocks along the way. Once we reach Mesopotamia Sheep Station, we take a visit to the Mesopotamia school, a guide will explain its history.

Guests then have a chance for photos and to take in the vastness of the upper reaches of the glacially carved Rangitata River valley with its stunning panorama of glaciers and snowfields. They will see just why this landscape was chosen as the site for Edoras and Helms Deep in the “Lord of the Rings” movies. We will then have complimentary tea, coffee, and snacks.

Country Town Geraldine and Shearing Demonstration

Our return journey takes us to the vibrant country town of Geraldine, well known for its cafes, art galleries, and craft shops. After a light lunch with complimentary tea and coffee, guests can explore the town at their leisure. The tour commences with a visit to a small farm where a world-class shearer will give a shearing and sheepdog demonstration.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary wine or beer as they watch the show before driving back across the Canterbury Plains to the port.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Mesopotamia Station, Peel Forest Park, Rangitata Valley, Lunch, Free Time, Geraldine (time permitting)

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven, grassy, and natural surfaces and inclines, with 10 steps to negotiate at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a backpack, weatherproof jacket, bottled water and local currency for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary. The coach supply in Timaru is very limited, coaches used are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of larger New Zealand ports.