New Zealand - Walter Peak Sheep Farm

Our last full day in New Zealand was a visit to the Walter Peak Sheep Farm outside of Queenstown.  This proved to be one of the nicest and most fun days in New Zealand, with lots of laughs and smiles from all of us.  While it poured until about 10:30 AM, the rest of the day was beautiful.  A short walk to the Queenstown pier, and we were headed off to the sheep farm on the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamboat.

A few family shots during a short cruise on the steamboat.

We have arrived at Walter Peak Sheep Farm!  First, we headed for a great outback barbeque, full of delicious New Zealand food.  After our great lunch, we headed out to the sheep demonstration area to learn more about sheep dogs, sheep shearing and this working farm with over 20,000 sheep ranging through the mountain.

Our guide for the day ... and his faithful (but old) sheep dog.

Working the sheep.

Demonstration of sheering sheep.  In this position, the sheerer does not need to hold the sheep as he will stay like this for hours.  Wonderfully funny demonstration.

Checking the teeth, the final requirement after sheering.  Sheep typically only "live" 5 or 6 years "in the wild" before heading for the food market.

Lamb friend.

Beautiful scenery and a beautiful blue skied day!!!  What a last treat before leaving New Zealand.