Te Aratipi Homestead Farm Experience
Step into the heart of a working New Zealand sheep and beef station.
Enquire now
Step into the heart of a working New Zealand sheep and beef station and experience the stories, people and places that have shaped Te Aratipi for over a century.

Hosted by fourth-generation farming family Ed and Ro Palmer, this relaxed and authentic experience offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into life on a genuine working farm. Explore the historic woolshed and farm yards, learn about modern farming practices, hear stories from four generations of the Palmer family and gain insight into the challenges and rewards of farming in rural New Zealand.

Travel through the farm by tractor and trailer, taking in the scale of the landscape and the rolling hill country that surrounds the homestead. Depending on the season and what is happening on the farm that day, guests may have the opportunity to observe aspects of daily farm life including stock work, sheep handling, shearing, working dogs or other seasonal farming activities.

A highlight of the experience is gathering at the homestead for a generous farm-style morning or afternoon tea. Enjoy homemade hospitality in the garden or on the lawn while taking in the peaceful surroundings and learning more about life at Te Aratipi.

No two visits are ever the same. Every experience is shaped by the season, the weather and the rhythm of life on a working farm.

Every visit is unique. As a genuine working farm, activities vary throughout the year and are dependent on seasonal farming operations. Guests may have the opportunity to observe stock work, sheep handling, shearing, working dogs or other farming activities as part of an authentic working farm experience.
Minimum 8 guests, maximum 18 guests.
Not just another tour...
When you book this tour with Mates Travel.
A Day In The Life Of A Real Farm
Animal Encounter
Local Knowledge
Private Transportation
What you can experience
  • Private hosted experience with Ro and/or Ed Palmer
  • Explore the historic woolshed and farm yards
  • Learn about modern New Zealand sheep and beef farming
  • Hear stories from four generations of the Palmer family
  • Insight into native bush regeneration and conservation projects
  • Tractor and trailer farm journey to viewpoint
  • Meet some of the farm's friendly resident animals
  • Generous farm-style morning or afternoon tea at the homestead
  • Opportunity to observe seasonal farming activities where available
Itinerary
1
Pickup in Napier
2
Scenic drive through the Hawke’s Bay countryside
3
Meet your hosts and explore the historic woolshed and farm yards
4
Travel across the farm by tractor and trailer
5
Learn about farming life, family history and seasonal farm activities
6
Return back to Napier
7
8
Enquire now
Te Aratipi Homestead
Step into the heart of a working New Zealand sheep and beef station.
1
A Day In The Life Of A Real Farm
Animal Encounter
Local Knowledge
Enquire now
FREE cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
from
What to Expect
When you book a tour with Mates Travel
1
Enquire about booking via our contact page
2
We will arrange tour details
3
Sit back and enjoy the tour
Have a question before you want to book?
Read our FAQ
What’s Included
Everything arranged so you can simply enjoy the journey.
Private Transportation
Morning or afternoon tea
Refreshments
Additional Information
Have a question before you want to book?
Read our FAQ