Embark on a journey with us to a forgotten land, once hot enough to buckle railway iron, cold enough to freeze a steam engines whistle, off the beaten track, nestled under snow tipped mountains in central Otago.

You will travel over clear rivers and streams high into the backcountry lakes filled with brown trout. Ride through the timeless Stonehenge plateau under massive rocky formations on a rolling and tussock covered landscape to the high country locations where, "The Lord of the Rings" was set, backed by the panoramic views of Maniototo and Ida Valley.

Follow the footsteps of eighteenth century goldminers, visit past historic dwellings and pubs. Sleep in their original stone huts and out of the way musterer's camps.

Mustering is still carried out on horseback today, rounding merino sheep and cattle with working dogs at the blow of a whistle. Our local folk and farmer guides have been in the area for four generations and know the local history, and these southern men and women have always got a few tales and yarns to share.

For the less adventurous there are tours to local merino stud and dairy farms, along with art deco, and to some of Central Otago's finest rural gardens. Whilst you are travelling around New Zealand this is an opportunity to experience our true blue kiwi hospitality.

For more information, please visit www.highcountrytours.co.nz