Richie is the Experience and Education Manager at Lake Hāwea Station, and few people have the ability to bring the land, stars, flora, and fauna to life as he does. With a Master’s in Wildlife Management, Richie’s knowledge of ecosystems is not only extensive but deeply insightful. Whether he’s talking about the stars above or the delicate balance of local ecosystems, Richie’s intellect and captivating storytelling make the natural world feel not only fascinating but profoundly relevant.
Have a read through our tour and educational experiences below. Come and gain a new perspective on the environment—one that connects you to the land in ways you never imagined. Richie’s expertise and enthusiasm are contagious, and you’ll leave feeling inspired and will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience that changes the way you see the world.
To make a booking please send an email directly to [email protected]
Deep Sky Starbathing
The night sky of the lower South Island is among the clearest in the world, enabling you to see deep into space with just the naked eye. Cosy up around a fire pit with hot water bottles, blankets, sweet treats and local Pinot.
Regenerative Farm Tour
Meet the animals in this front country experience, learn about Lake Hāwea Station’s approach to climate positive and regenerative farming, and see how our farm supports the environment and contributes to healthier farm animals and fibre (you might even meet the shepherd and his 17 dogs!)
Back Country Immersion
Travelling by ATV with our guide Richie, an experienced outdoor instructor, enjoy exclusive access to some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscape. This adventure combines kaleidoscope views, wildlife spotting, fresh mountain air and morning or afternoon tea.
Beech Forest Bathing
Nestled within the rugged valley of Lake Hāwea’s front country are pockets of extraordinary forest, Mountain Beech, Nothofagus solandri, forms the natural timber line within South Island’s mountainous environment. An opportunity to experience stunning views and sounds and enjoy a locally sourced morning or afternoon tea.
Children, Our Earth Stewards
We are proud to be able to nurture the next generation in a nature-based educational space with interactive activities. Your children will be in safe hands with Guide Richie, who is also a trained medic and nature-based education. After time learning and adventuring enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate or a cold local drink and snack with views of the station.
Regen Dining
At Lake Hāwea Station, dining is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that connects you to the whenua and comes with a story about a purpose to fight for a healthier climate, healthier food systems and healthier you. During your stay gather your close ones to dine and immerse yourself in lush regenerative pastures as the sun sets. Chef Danes food is world class art – locally and seasonally sourced with dishes created from station foraging.
Deeper Dining
Join Chef Dane and guide Richie for a ‘Deeper Dining’ experience – a unique tour and teaching trip which includes a back country saddle blast and regenerative farm tour with a stunning lunch harvested from regenerative pastures and local sources. Both experiences come with commentary which relates the food to the source in beautiful story telling. Eating is after all an agricultural act.