A genuine homestead accommodation experience at the heart of a New Zealand high country station on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Mount Nicholas Station – a New Zealand family owned, fully operational High Country Sheep Station – lies at the foot of the Southern Alps, Fiordland National Park to the west and the spectacular, clear waters of Lake Wakatipu immediately below the lodge to the east. Nestled within this breath-taking panorama is Mt. Nicholas Lodge – a destination which offers a unique and memorable experience of the New Zealand high country.

At over 100,000 acres, Mt. Nicholas is the largest station on the lake. The 27,000 merino sheep produce some of the world’s finest quality wool fibre, the majority of which is used in the production of the iconic “Icebreaker” range of high quality, natural fibre garments.

Several hundred Red Deer, Fallow Deer, Chamois and Himalayan Tahr can also be found on the slopes of Mt. Nicholas, providing an extraordinary environment for the photographer or hunter. And with the Von River running across the station, this is a world famous trout fishing destination – rainbow and brown trout are abundant in both the lake and rivers.

Hunting
Hunting is what we do, pure and simple, the New Zealand hunting heritage has a deserved reputation as the home of the Red Stag, being the Holy Grail of the South Pacific hunting trophy. The trails which criss-cross the exclusive property are tracks through time; trodden in by majestic stags, bulls, rams and bucks, and are the domain of skilled guides and dedicated hunters who sought and still seek these trophies out. Species you can come across are the Red Stag, Fallow Deer, Wapiti (Elk), Tahr, Chamois, Arapawa Ram, Wild Boar and the Alpine Goat. Our season dates are from February 15th – August 15th. 

Accommodation
Your hosts combine exceptional hunting with an exceptional hunting base, the new lodge is a promise kept and one well worth the wait. Featuring three stunning guest rooms complete with ensuites, a trophy room, dining room, inviting lounge bar, library, gun room and outfit room.

Tour Style:

• Small groups (max 20 passengers)
• Coach: Toyota Coaster or similar
• Experienced driver/guide
• Accommodation: Comfortable 3 star or better

Their fully-trained professional guides will match you with the best horse for your ability, and make sure your riding experience is nothing but fun. We will start with a free riding lesson to help you gain confidence with your chosen horse. Ride up to the back of the farm amongst the grazing sheep and green pastures. Ride through native New Zealand bush up towards some superb views over Lakes Rotorua and Rotoiti. There is enough time to take photos and have a drink before heading back down towards the terraces. If you are an experienced rider you will be able to canter, otherwise relax and trek along flat paddocks under the cliffs and forest. Complete your trek by crossing the Paradise Valley Springs and head back to the stables.

This ride is recommended for confident beginners to fully experienced riders (minimum age 12)

This 2.5 hour horse trek takes you into the Punakaiki Valley and along the beach to the famous Pancake Rocks. We will ford the Punakaiki River and take a scenic route to view the Paparoa National Park. Ride through native bush to view large limestone bluffs capped with lush temperate rainforest.

If you are lucky, you can come across our native Kereru wood pigeon which can sometimes be seen swooping low through forest corridors. Other birds include our Paradise duck, the nosy Weka and gorgeous Pukeko which you will most likely come across as well as oyster catchers, spur-winged plovers and harrier hawks. After our stroll through the rainforest, we stop on the r iver flat at a bush hut for a stretch and some photographs, before we ride our way back to the coast. Riders will be able to take a stroll down Punakaiki beach, where you can experience the powerful sea rolling onto the famous Pancake Rocks.

Be transported to Middle-Earth astride your own steed! Following the beautiful scenic drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, passing Ithilien and stopping en-route to admire The Misty Mountains, you eventually arrive in Paradise where your 1 and a half hour ride begins. Winding through the golden woods of Lothlorien, passing Amon Hen, the track opens up and the ‘Golden Mile’ begins. From here the views of the Wizard’s Vale and the mighty peak of Methedras are breathtaking. A gradual descent takes riders down into Nan Curunir, finally dismounting at the base of Isengard. This ride is a must for The Lord of the Rings fans, and is suitable for beginner riders.

This trip is available for a 3 hour option, following the trail of Saruman’s army with breathtaking views of The Misty Mountains, Wizards Vale and the Mighty Methedras. (for advanced riders only) Please contact us for more information on this ride.

Accommodation is provided in wooden cabins set in Paradise’s untouched beech forest. and all meals are included. This trip is available for a day option as requested.

Who is suitable for this trip?
You will need a reasonable level of fitness and riding experience for this trip.

Tour Style:

• Small groups (max 20 passengers)
• Coach: Toyota Coaster or similar
• Experienced driver/guide
• Accommodation: Comfortable 3 star or better.

Tour Style:

• Small groups (max 20 passengers)
• Coach: Toyota Coaster or similar
• Experienced driver/guide
• Accommodation: Comfortable 3 star or better.