Middlehurst Station - connecting with high country farming families
- Maree Carson
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Good things take time. For more than 20 years, Driftwood Eco Tours has put the effort into developing genuine relationships with the communities and families that we visit.
One such family is the Macdonalds of Middlehurst Station. Nestled at the foot of the Inland Kaikōura Ranges in South Marlborough, Sue and Willie purchased the Station back in ‘98, wanting a farm they could pass down through the generations.
As Sue and Willie spent more time away to enjoy their retirement, their son Henry and partner Joy have taken over management of the farm.
We knew what made the Driftwood experience special wasn’t just the stunning landscapes, but the connections with the remarkable people who call these places home. So when we took over the reins at Driftwood, high on the list was getting to know everyone!
Julian and I made the time to visit the Macdonalds on a chilly May weekend and received a very warm welcome.
The Macdonalds are the kind of family who embody the values of trust and resilience that define high-country life. Henry is the calm and capable farmer steering the future of the Station, while Joy, with her background in tourism and passion for horses, ensures visitors feel instantly at home, just like one of the family.
That evening, we gathered around the dinner table for a warm and hearty meal, prepared by their resident chef.
We sampled Middlehurst Station Angus Beef, Merino Lamb and Patoa Pork, just the same as can be bought at their new Farm Store in Kaikoura. This new shop connects growers directly to customers, sharing the stories - and the exceptional meat - with people across New Zealand.
As the food and wine began to flow, so did the tales. From day-to-day farm operations or the annual muster of stock from over 2,500m in the ranges, horses play a vital role in the lives of everyone at Middlehurst. We heard about the challenges and the unique bonds between rider and steed during life on the land.
With a glint in his eye, we also heard from Willie about the ‘holiday’ that involved a 100-mile horse trek across Mongolia. For the details, you’ll just have to come hear it yourself!
Our Molesworth & Rainbow High Country tour visits Middlehurst In March, when the hills start to glow with autumn colours, and the annual muster begins. You’ll witness the rhythms of farm life, taste the quality of the produce and feel the deep sense of family that underpins it all. We can’t wait to guide you to this iconic station and join you at another fantastic meal with the Macdonalds.
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