walter peak high country farm - stewart island experience · and was the last mckenzie to remain at...

Walter Peak High Country Farm Queenstown, New Zealand

Real Journeys Special Events DepartmentLevel 2, 74 Shotover StreetQueenstown, New Zealand

Email: [email protected]: +64 3 442 4847

A vintage wedding at an iconic destination – Walter Peak High Country FarmFrom the moment you board the Edwardian steamship TSS Earnslaw for a romantic journey across Lake Wakatipu, to the moment you set foot back in Queenstown, everything about your wedding will be remarkable.

Nestled on the western shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm has expansive lake and mountain views, exquisitely manicured gardens and rustic wooden jetties. With its endless photo opportunities, the hardest part is deciding where you would like to hold the ceremony.

The historic Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant has the charm and style of a nostalgic era with open fireplaces, chandeliers, and antique-filled rooms. It is perfect for receptions or pre/post wedding celebrations.

Our menus offer a delicious array of locally sourced produce and high quality New Zealand wines to match.

The TSS Earnslaw and Walter Peak High Country Farm are steeped in Queenstown’s pioneering history and together with unrivaled views, location, exceptional cuisine and dedicated service; we are the perfect choice for your wedding.

We look forward to talking to you about your wedding soon.

Rachel & JosieThe Real Journeys Weddings team



WALTER PEAK HISTORY

THE WEDDINGS TEAM

Walter Peak became a high country sheep station in 1879. Scottish immigrant Hugh Mackenzie and his wife Anastasia had six sons and two daughters and lived in Scholan house (the middle house at the back of the current homestead). The sons all worked for a time at Walter Peak and helped plant the large block of trees that provide such a magnificent setting.

The original Colonel’s Homestead was built in 1908 for one of the sons who became a Colonel in World War 1 and was the last McKenzie to remain at Walter Peak; finally selling out in 1960 when his only son showed no interest in farming.

The homestead was first used to host visitors for morning and afternoon tea, in 1969 and a launch arrived twice daily from Queenstown.

In 1977, the homestead was destroyed by fire. It was rebuilt with a very similar exterior but the interior was designed on a larger scale, with a variety of rooms suitable for entertaining. Some items were rescued from the original house (like the small chiffonier in the Mahogany Room) and other antiques were purchased from England and Scotland, in keeping with the character and period of the earlier homestead.

In the late 1960’s Real Journeys bought the TSS Earnslaw and in 1999 the company took over Walter Peak High Country Farm. That year a ballroom was added on and in 1999 the Long Room was built.

Walter Peak High Country Farm has remained an iconic destination for visitors from all over the world.

Rachel Brian - Event Sales ManagerOriginally from Christchurch, Rachel has been with Real Journeys since 2011. Rachel’s favourite part of a wedding is seeing the bride and groom together celebrating with their family and friends.

Josie Debenham - Event Sales ExecutiveOriginally from sunny Nelson, Josie is a mad keen skier, and made the move to Queenstown in 2011 and joined the events team in late 2012. Josie is all about the details and loves seeing all the ideas, discussions and pinterest inspirations turned into a reality.



GETTING TO WALTER PEAK

Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw was originally built to service the high country stations around Lake Wakatipu before there was road access. This beautiful old vessel remains in exceptional condition thanks to careful maintenance and the purity of the water of the lake. The TSS Earnslaw is believed to be the only original coal-fired passenger carrying steamship still operating in the Southern Hemisphere. Guests are welcome to travel to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board any pre scheduled TSS Earnslaw departure.

Options include: drinks and canapés on board; a private saloon solely for wedding guests; separate travel on our exclusive charter vessel for the bridal party. Exclusive charter of the steamship itself is also available at certain times of the year.

Sailing times:Sailing times from Queenstown to Walter Peak: 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pmSailing times Walter Peak to Queenstown: 10.45am, 12.45pm, 2.45pm, 4.45pm, 6.45pm, 9.15pm, 11.15pm****Available for additional fee

Charter Vessel: Real Journeys owns and operates a smaller vessel which is available to charter for groups of up to 65.

Planes & Helicopters: Walter Peak High Country Farm has its own landing strip for small planes and helicopters. For helicopter transfers, we recommend contacting local helicopter companies directly as they can package the transfer with suitable photo locations enroute to Walter Peak.

TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship

Alternative Travel Options



WEDDING DAY TIMELINEBelow is an example of a wedding ceremony and reception that features transport on the TSS Earnslaw’s regular sailings.

This should be used as a guideline as we will work with you to tailor an itinerary that suits your requirements.

2.00pm: Groom and guests depart Steamer Wharf, Queenstown on board TSS Earnslaw2.45pm: Guests arrive Walter Peak High Country Farm and are seated for ceremony 3.00pm: Bride arrives by helicopter / separate charter vessel3.15pm: Ceremony begins3.45pm: Ceremony concludes / drinks served 4.00pm: Canapés are served / photos / lawn games if desired6.00pm: Guests move through to Homestead for reception dinner6.05pm: Bride & groom arrive6.10pm: Speeches6.30pm: Dinner9.15pm/11.15pm: TSS Earnslaw departs Walter Peak10.00pm/12.00am: TSS Earnslaw arrives Queenstown



THE CEREMONYFrom an intimate ceremony on board the TSS Earnslaw, to a large lakefront beach wedding;

Walter Peak High Country Farm offers an array of stunning ceremony locations.

With its authentic brass and wood fittings, a ceremony on board this steamship is a classic choice for small intimate groups. Ceremonies may take place on the promenade, beside the grand piano, or outdoors on the forward deck as the vessel traverses the lake.

The private saloon on board can accommodate up to 55 guests for drinks and canapés.

In most cases ceremonies would be on a shared sailing although exclusive use options are available at certain times of the year.

Suitable for smaller weddings of up to 50.

TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship

The Lakefront

On the shores of Lake Wakatipu your ceremony takes place in front of a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and water. Alternatively opt for a more Kiwi beachfront look; complete with a wooden jetty. Your guests arrive on the TSS Earnslaw, whilst the bridal party arrives in style on its own separate vessel.

Suitable for weddings of up to 150.

The Lawn

Set amongst the flowers of a cottage garden, the lawn in front of the Colonel’s Homestead is a large flat area with views from every angle.

The most popular of our ceremony venues, this beautiful spot is private, sheltered and provides perfect photo opportunities of gardens, lake or mountains.

Suitable for weddings of any size.



THE RECEPTIONThe Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant has a variety of elegant rooms that may be used

separately or together to cater for weddings of all sizes.

Named after the Scottish immigrant family that established Walter Peak High Country Station in 1879, the Mackenzie room is our most intimate reception venue. With views across the gardens and lake, the room has its own separate entrance, private bathrooms and direct kitchen access.

Furnished in a classic combination of leather and wood, it also features two beautiful old fireplaces and a romantic window seat.

Suitable for up to 70 guests.

The Mackenzie Room

The Long Room, Ballroom & Pergola

On the west side of the Colonel’s Homestead, these three lavish areas complement each other and form the perfect combination for a grand wedding with entertainment.

The Ballroom, at the heart of the Homestead features a large open fireplace, grand chandelier and country-style bar; all adding to its charm. Dine, dance or simply enjoy the views, your guests will flow through the venue and mix and mingle with ease.


Exclusive use of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant

For ultimate privacy, the entire Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant can be hired out exclusively ensuring the entire property is dedicated to your wedding reception. This option is only available at certain times of the year and an additional surcharge may apply.




FOOD & WINEWith its own vegetable garden, the Colonel’s Homestead kitchen specialises in fresh, seasonal,

locally sourced New Zealand produce. Below are samples of our current gourmet menus. Our team of dedicated chefs are only too happy to cater to your special

requests.

Our extensive wine list features a range of local and New Zealand wines designed to compliment the menu. All inclusive beverage packages are available. Our wine list is regularly updated, so please

contact us for a copy.

Sample Canapés MenuCOLD

Rock Oysters, served natural with shallot red wine vinegarGolden bay paddle crab mayonnaise & brioche

Rabbit rillettes with fig and apple chutney & crostiniFried ham hock terrine with pear chutney & pease pudding

Beef tartare with horseradish crème fraiche & parmesan crumbChicken liver pate with pistachio praline & bruschettaLocal cherry tomato,basil & buffalo mozzarella tartlet

Marinated zucchini with mint, chilli, lemon, goats cheese bruschettaBeetroot tartare with horseradish & orange

WARM/HOTFish taco with chipotle aioli, coleslaw, lime & baby coriander

Salt cod brandade with salsa verde & caper crumbSmoked warehou croquettes with paprika aioli

Crispy panko fried salmon bon bonWest coast whitebait fritter with tartare sauce

Braised Cardrona lamb croquettes with pesto & pecorinoSeared venison sliders with horseradish with rocket & caramelized onion jam

Gorgonzola beignets with honey & trufflePotato mousse with baked potato powder & truffle



Subject to seasonal changes



Sample Gourmet BBQ MenuBREADS

Walter Peak white sourdoughRosemary & maldon salt focaccia

Wholemeal loaf

SALADS / ENTREEQuinoa with pomegranate, feta, almonds, raisins & herbs

Beetroot & local goats cheese topped with hazelnuts & sageRed cabbage coleslaw dressed with dijon mustard mayonnaise & sesame

New potato salad with spring onions, capers & parsley mayonnaiseLocal asparagus with eggs & croutons

Iceberg lettuce topped with bacon & blue cheese dressingFresh seasonal salad leaves with a vinaigrette

Black beans, avocado, coriander, cherry tomato served with tortillaTart of caramelised onion, brie, pistachio & thyme

COLD SEAFOODSmoked mackerel served with rocket & topped with aioli

Home cured Stewart Island salmon dressed with fennel, capers & lemonCloudy Bay clams with dried salami & fennel

ANTIPASTO SELECTIONMarinated olives, sundried tomatoes, artichokes proscuitto, salami,

chargrilled vegetables, New Zealand cheeses

VEGETABLESHerb crusted butternut squashButtered potatoes with chives

Zucchini topped with almonds & lemon

OUTDOOR GRILLVegetable skewers with Blue River halloumi

Whole prawns sautéed in chilli & garlicGrilled skate

Grilled octopusSpiced rotisserie chickenSlow roasted pork belly

Cardrona leg of lambLocal Zamora creole sausage

Beef short ribs & sliced beef rump

DESSERTS Crème brulee served with fruit compote

Panna cottaSticky date pudding

Freshly baked chocolate browniesVanilla ice cream

Trifle TiramisuChocolate mousse




ENTRÉE(choice of 3)

Farm house pate & homemade chutney with crostiniHam hock terrine & pea pistachio pesto

Beef tataki with soy, sesame, coriander & chilliLardo crudo with honey & truffle

Natural oysters with shallots & red wine vinegarFried west coast white bait & smoked paprika aioli

House cured salmon with beetroot relish, horse radish & crème fraicheCrispy squid in a thai green curry sauce

Grilled haloumi with red onion jam & rocketHomemade onion bharji & minted yoghurt

Chickpea fritters & tomato chilli salsa

MAIN(choice of 3)

Spit roasted Cardrona Valley lamb & caponataSpiced rotisserie chicken with cous cous & yoghurt dressingCharred beef rump cap with chimmichurri, tomato & rocket

Slow roast crispy pork belly with apple & watercressWhole roasted Riverton flounder with capers, lemon & parsley

Green lip mussels & clams with riesling, butter, fresh herbs & crusty breadWhole Stewart Island salmon with grapefruit, chive hollandaise & fennel salad

Grilled summer vegetable platter, mozzarella & basil pesto

SIDES(choice of 3)

Smoked potato pureeRocket salad

Wilted greens topped with almondsButtered gourmet potatoes

Herb and peanut pilafCorn, chilli lime butter

Quinoa, avocado, roast pepper & pumpkin seed salad

DESSERT(choice of 2)

Vanilla ice cream cones with fresh berries, honeycomb, meringue, praline & saucesChocolate brownies with caramel mousse, hot fudge sauce & sugared walnuts

Crème brûlée with roasted peach & biscottiSummer berries with citrus curd, meringue & honeycomb

Sample Shared Platter Menu




ENTRÉE(choice of 2)

Chicken liver parfait with homemade chutney & grissiniScallops & pork belly with broad beans, pea & mint pestoVenison carpaccio with pickled stone fruit & micro greens

Pan-fried fillet of gurnard with marinated vegetables & crispy onionHome smoked salmon with horseradish, crème fraiche, beetroot & watercress

Local tomatoes with buffalo mozzarella, basil & balsamicSlow cooked free range egg with white beans, toasted oats & truffle

MAIN(choice of 2)

Ballantine of hake with saffron, mussel clam risotto, seaweed & paprika oilRump of lamb with roast vine tomato, eggplant puree & fondant potato

Wakanui rib eye steak with caponata & rocketHapuka fillet with jersey benny, green bean, cherry tomato, olive, tapenade & basil

Fillet of salmon with fennel, citrus salsa, rocket, radish & lemon oilSupreme of chicken with black beans, avocado, roast capsicum & coriander

Pea risotto with broad beans, crème fraiche & pecorinoCherry tomato, gnocchi, buffalo mozzarella, olive & basil

DESSERT(choice of 2)

Vanilla crème brulee with baked peach & biscottiTreacle tart with salted caramel & vanilla ice cream

Summer berries served with citrus curd, honey comb & lemoncello sorbetChocolate mousse with chocolate crumble & macerated fruit

Vanilla ice cream cones topped with berries, honey comb & sauce

Sample Set Menu


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How far away is the venue from Queenstown?Walter Peak High Country Farm is a leisurely 45 minute cruise via the vintage steamship – TSS Earnslaw. On a separate charter vessel it is approximately a 25 minute cruise and helicopter transfer time depends on the route. The departure point for the TSS Earnslaw and charter vessel is at Steamer Wharf in downtown Queenstown.

Can I change the departure time of the TSS Earnslaw?The TSS Earnslaw operates on a set schedule and is unable to be changed unless an exclusive charter is booked.

Do my guests and I have to travel on the TSS Earnslaw?No, but it certainly is a major highlight and a special part of holding your wedding with us. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for your guests to experience an iconic piece of Queenstown’s history.

How do the bride & groom get to the venue separately from the guests?Most couples opt to have the bride travel to Walter Peak earlier in the day with her bridesmaids and the groom to travel on the TSS Earnslaw with the guests. Alternatively, the bride can arrive via a separate vessel or helicopter.

Can we drive there?Although there is a road access to Walter Peak, it is approximately 4 hours from Queenstown with a large portion of gravel road and several river crossings. Access is often restricted because of high water levels and it is not recommended.

Can we arrive by helicopter?Yes. Several local helicopter companies are familiar with the location and the heli-landing area is an easy 5 minute walk to the Homestead.

Can you supply a wedding cake?We recommend contacting a local supplier to create your cake. We can assist with transporting it to Walter Peak in time for your reception.

Do you provide printed menus?Printed menus can be provided for the shared platter and set menu choices only.

Where do we have pre dinner drinks & canapés?These are usually served on the main lawn.

Do you allow BYO beverages, food or outside caterers?All beverages and catering must be provided on site by Real Journeys.

Do we have to take a beverage package?Not at all – we also offer beverages charged on consumption.

Transport

Catering & Beverages



Do we have to have both the ceremony and reception onsite?No. You can have either or both but we highly recommend having the ceremony and reception with us to take advantage of the unique location and special experience for your guests.

Do you provide a sound system?The Colonel’s Homestead is equipped with a sound system with iPod connection that can be played through the PA system. There is no sound system outside, however we can provide access to power for you to provide your own.

Can you organise a microphone and audio visual equipment?We have two wireless microphones available for use in the Colonel’s Homestead which is included in the venue hire. If screens or projectors are required then these can hired in from an outside supplier for an additional fee.

What if the weather is bad?With all of our ceremonies we have a good and bad weather option which we will work through with you at the planning stage. But if the weather is bad, then the ceremony would be moved inside to a suitable room. Depending on the size of the wedding a marquee may be required at your own expense and this would be advised at the enquiry stage.

Do you have a dance floor?The Ballroom has a hard wooden floor which is an excellent dance floor. The pergola has a concrete floor and the rest of the floors throughout the homestead are carpeted.

Can we extend the finishing time of our reception?The packages listed in this document outline the latest time your reception can finish. This is because of our licencing and operational requirements.

What sort of tables do you have and how many people can fit on each?We have both long and round tables. When the shared platter menu is selected, round tables must be selected and they can seat up to 10 people on each. Long tables are suitable for the gourmet BBQ and set menu’s and each table can seat up to 10 people.

Can you provide decorations and centre pieces?We recommend you source your own table decorations from a local specialist to ensure your own personal preference. We can work with them directly to arrange the logistics of the set up.

Will there be other people around during my ceremony?Walter Peak is a year-round destination and caters to tourists from around the globe. During your ceremony it is likely there will be other guests on the grounds however they are generally occupied with pre-scheduled activities and we do our upmost to ensure that your celebration is as private as possible. At certain times of the year we do offer the option to ensure exclusivity of the grounds for an additional fee.

Can we stay on site?Unfortunately there is no on site visitor accommodation at Walter Peak High Country Farm and we recommend staying in Queenstown. There is a private lodge - The Lodge at Walter Peak Station is approximately 7kms from the Colonel’s Homestead which is privately owned and operated.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSVenue



PRICINGOne of the most important things when planning your wedding is the budget and with this in

mind we have prepared our pricing based on a per head package with options to add extra special touches.

Ceremony & Reception PackagesOption One

Return TSS Earnslaw CruiseWedding Ceremony Fee

Reception Venue FeeCanapés/Afternoon Tea

Gourmet BBQ DinnerWedding Cake Service

Option TwoReturn TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Wedding Ceremony FeeReception Venue Fee

Canapés/Afternoon Tea3 course Shared Platter Menu

Wedding Cake Service

Option ThreeReturn TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Wedding Ceremony FeeReception Venue Fee

Canapés/Afternoon Tea3 course/2 choice Set Menu

Wedding Cake Service

Off-Peak Peak Off-Peak Peak Off-Peak Peak

$165 per person $190 per person $175 per person $205 per person $185 per person $215 per person

Complimentary InclusionsCeremony with up to 40 chairs • Table for document signing • Use of lawn following ceremony • Use of lawn games (petanque & croquet) • Bridal Table • Tables & Chairs • Table Cloths & Napkins (white or black) • All cutlery, plates &

glasswear • Cake Table • Gift Table • Wireless Microphone • iPod connection • Cutting/service of wedding cake on shared platters

Off Peak: May - NovemberPeak: December - April

Return TSS Earnslaw Cruise included in package is based on a 2.00pm departure from Queenstown and 9.15pm departure from Walter Peak. Later departure is possible for an additional charge.

Packages are based on 20 - 200 people, for numbers above this - please contact us direct.

Extra Special TouchesGlass of bubbles on board TSS Earnslaw $10 per person

Standard Beverage Package - 1 Hour $19 per person

Premium Beverage Package - 1 Hour $22 per person

Wedding cake individually plated with serve of cream $5 per person

Large Wooden Arch $275 flat fee

White gladiator chairs for ceremony $9 per chair

Chair covers for ceremony/reception $10 per chair

Chair covers with sash for ceremony/reception $14 per chair

Charter vessel transfer (Max 65 guests) $520 flat fee (O/P) $650 flat fee (P)

TSS Earnslaw late departure/Extended Venue hire (11.15pm from Walter Peak) $2000 flat fee

All prices are expressed in New Zealand dollars including 15% GST and are valid until 31 October 2016.



POLICIES & GUIDELINESBookingsBookings must be made directly with the Real Journey Special Events team and can be made up to two years in advance.

ConfirmationOnce you have confirmed your reservation in writing, you will be issued our terms and conditions and deposit invoice.

DepositTo secure your booking, a 25% deposit of the estimated total cost is due within 30 days of booking. We accept mostpayment methods.

Payment TermsFull payment is required one week before the event unless prior credit arrangements have been made.

CancellationShould unforeseen circumstances arise and cancellation is required, the deposit is non-refundable. The full cancellation policy will be outlined in your personalised terms and conditions.

NumbersA guaranteed number of guests attending is required three full working days prior and charges will be based on this confirmed number even if numbers are lower on the day.

Venue AccessAccess to the venue for set up will depend on the daily operation at Walter Peak. Any contractors will be advised when they can access the venue to pack in and pack out.

ChildrenChildren are welcome at Walter Peak High Country Farm and those between the ages of 5-14 are charged at 50% of the adult cruise and main meal fares. Under 5 are free of charge.

AlcoholThe TSS Earnslaw and Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant at Walter Peak are fully licensed venues.

MusicWe welcome all forms of entertainment for weddings however when the venue has not been hired exclusively, music must not impact on other guests experience.

Trading HoursThe standard venue hire fees cover access to the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant from 5.00pm until 9.15pm. For an extension to this, the late departure fee for the TSS Earnslaw covers extended use of the Homestead until the TSS Earnslaw departure at 11.15pm.

Site VisitsA site visit for two people accompanied by a member of Real Journeys events team is available and must be pre-arranged. Any further visits to Walter Peak will incur a cost. Any questions that arise after the site inspection can be discussed via phone and email.

ContractorsWe will provide a set number of complimentary tickets for travel on the TSS Earnslaw for contractors such as photographers, celebrants, musicians and florists. The quantity of tickets is determined by the size of the wedding and will be advised with the written contract. Contractors details must be given to Real Journeys in advance.



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