Nestled amongst 180,787 hectares of towering mountains and river valleys, Molesworth Station is New Zealand’s largest farm and a truly unique place on earth.
Located three hours drive of either Nelson, Blenheim or Christchurch, Molesworth is cradled in the headwaters of the three great rivers of Marlborough – the Wairau, Clarence and Awatere.
This is rugged, isolated terrain with a long and chequered history. Ngai Tahu Maori were the first to establish trails across the area. Later, Molesworth captured the imagination of early European settlers, who used the valleys as short cuts for moving stock from Marlborough to Canterbury.
Over the years, numerous owners and managers attempted to turn a profit in this inhospitable environment, but by the late 1930s overstocking, overgrazing, scab mite, erosion, rabbit infestation and economic recession had all taken their toll, and the land was largely abandoned to the Crown.
Today, Molesworth is administered by the Department of Conservation. Careful management has enabled the land to recover and the station is now home to around 10,000 cattle.
Molesworth Station is only open to the public for a limited period every summer. It’s a not-to-be-missed chance to experience the wide open spaces, remote beauty and remarkable history of a true high country station.
Experience Molesworth Station on our 5 Day North Canterbury and Marlborough Cycle Tour
Starting out in Christchurch, this tour takes you through the wine growing district of the Waipara Valley and idyllic Hanmer Springs (where wonderful hot springs await). Day three sees you cycle the scenic road through Molesworth Station. Breathe in the spectacular landscape and learn more about the station’s history, as you pass buildings from the original stock droving days. After a night in the shearers’ quarters of a merino sheep station, you’ll follow the river down the beautiful Awatere Valley to emerge amongst vineyards alongside the ocean. You’ll overnight in Kaikoura with options to view whales, dolphins and albatross, before returning to Christchurch via the spectacular inland Kaikoura road.
Fancy Christmas in New Zealand? We’re currently taking bookings for this tour’s 27 December departure date. Head here for full tour details (more dates are available).
Have a great week,
Steve
