Walter Peak Garden to Table Experience – Sustainable Food & Nature Journey

The Walter Peak Garden to Table Experience is a unique eco-tourism and culinary experience that combines a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, a guided exploration of flourishing kitchen gardens, hands-on conservation activities, and a delicious farm-fresh dining experience. Set on the picturesque shores of Lake Whakatipu, this immersive excursion showcases how locally grown produce is transformed from garden to plate while highlighting New Zealand’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity. (RealNZ)

Experience Highlights

• Scenic return cruise across Lake Whakatipu aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw.

• Guided tour through Walter Peak’s productive restaurant gardens and orchards.

• Opportunity to harvest and sample seasonal produce straight from the garden.

• Learn about sustainable farming, conservation, and native ecosystems.

• Plant a native tree or shrub as part of Walter Peak’s land restoration programme.

• Enjoy generous garden platters and locally sourced refreshments in a stunning lakeside setting. (RealNZ)

Cruise Across Lake Whakatipu

Your journey begins with a 45-minute cruise from Queenstown aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, one of New Zealand’s most beloved heritage vessels. As you cross the crystal-clear waters of Lake Whakatipu, you'll enjoy spectacular views of The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Walter Peak, and the surrounding alpine landscapes. The voyage itself is a memorable part of the experience, offering a glimpse into Queenstown’s pioneering history. (RealNZ)

Explore the Market Garden

Upon arrival at Walter Peak High Country Farm, a knowledgeable rural host leads guests through the extensive restaurant gardens.

What You'll Discover

• Seasonal vegetables growing in raised garden beds.

• Fruit orchards producing fresh ingredients.

• Culinary herbs and edible flowers.

• Sustainable gardening techniques.

• The journey of food from cultivation to the dining table.

Visitors can often sample freshly harvested produce while learning how the farm supplies ingredients for Walter Peak’s culinary experiences. (RealNZ)

Conservation & Native Tree Planting

One of the most meaningful aspects of the tour is the opportunity to contribute directly to local conservation efforts.

Guests can:

• Walk through a reforested lakeside peninsula.

• Learn about New Zealand's native wildlife and ecosystems.

• Understand restoration initiatives undertaken by RealNZ.

• Plant a native tree or shrub as part of the property's ongoing biodiversity programme.

This hands-on activity creates a lasting connection to the landscape and supports long-term environmental restoration. (RealNZ)

Garden-to-Table Dining

After exploring the gardens, guests enjoy a relaxed dining experience featuring ingredients harvested from the property.

The menu typically includes:

• Fresh seasonal vegetables.

• Garden platters showcasing local produce.

• Homegrown ingredients prepared by the Walter Peak culinary team.

• High-country tea selections and locally sourced treats.

• Farm-inspired flavours that celebrate the region's agricultural heritage.

The emphasis is on freshness, sustainability, and showcasing produce at its seasonal best. (RealNZ)

Stunning Lakeside Setting

Walter Peak sits on the southwestern shores of Lake Whakatipu and is surrounded by mountains, native plantings, and beautifully maintained gardens. The tranquil location provides a peaceful contrast to Queenstown’s adventure-focused activities and offers exceptional photography opportunities throughout the experience. (RealNZ)

Visitor Information

(RealNZ)

Why Visitors Love It

Unlike traditional farm tours, the Garden to Table Experience focuses on sustainability, local food production, and environmental stewardship. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to engage directly with the gardens, learn practical horticultural insights, contribute to conservation efforts, and enjoy produce harvested just moments before dining. The combination of nature, food, and education creates a deeply rewarding experience. (Queenstown New Zealand)

Perfect For

• Sustainable tourism enthusiasts.

• Food and wine travelers.

• Gardeners and horticulture lovers.

• Couples seeking a relaxing experience.

• Families interested in conservation.

• Visitors wanting an authentic connection to New Zealand's landscape and food culture. (RealNZ)

Insider Tip

Choose a departure during spring or summer when the gardens are at their most vibrant and productive. Bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera, as the combination of flourishing gardens, native restoration projects, alpine scenery, and Lake Whakatipu views creates some of the most picturesque settings around Queenstown. The experience pairs beautifully with a TSS Earnslaw cruise and offers a refreshing alternative to the region’s adrenaline-based attractions. (RealNZ)