Experience Remote High Country at McDonald Downs
Stay, ride, and explore a 9,000-hectare working farm in the heart of North Canterbury.
Authentic high country experience
25km gravel track featuring river and creek crossings
9,000-hectare working sheep and beef farm
Stay in a cabin or camp on-site
See McDonald Downs in action
McDonald Downs is a family-owned high-country station where wide open spaces, fresh air, and uninterrupted quiet are part of everyday life. Whether you're staying the night or travelling through, this is a place to step away from the pace of the outside world and experience a genuine working farm.
Explore
Access through the heart of the farm
Travel one of our private farm tracks by bike or 4WD, passing through rivers, rolling hills, and working farmland. This is a one-way 25km journey through real high-country terrain — not a public road, but a true farm access experience.
One-way access (booking required)
River crossings and gravel tracks
Suitable for bikes and 4WD vehicles only
Stay
Simple, comfortable accommodation in a remote setting.
Our cabins are designed for travellers looking for a practical, no-fuss place to stay. With everything you need for a comfortable night, it’s the perfect stopover to relax, recharge, and take in the surroundings.
Sleeps 2–8 people
Kitchen facilities included
Breakfast provisions supplied
Working farm experience
McDonald Downs is an active farm, and life continues as normal during your visit. You may see stock being moved, dogs working, and day-to-day farm operations in action.
We ask all visitors to respect the land, livestock, and people who work here — helping us keep the farm running safely for everyone.
Important information
This is a private, working farm with changing conditions.
Bookings are required for all access
No mobile phone coverage on the property
Track access may be affected by weather
Featured adventures and experiences
Biking
Get off the beaten track on two wheels with our farm routes. Gravel tracks, creek crossings, and rolling terrain make for a rewarding ride. Not overly technical, but best suited to confident riders. Routes can be flexible if arranged in advance. No mobile coverage — come prepared.
Adventure Riding
Enjoy a relaxed adventure riding experience along our well-formed gravel track. Following the main access route, the trail winds through scenic countryside with multiple creek crossings along the way. It’s a rewarding ride designed for those looking to explore without highly technical terrain.
4WD
Get off the beaten track with our 4WD route. Gravel tracks and creek crossings create a rewarding drive through varied terrain. Not extreme, but 4WD required. With no mobile coverage and some steeper sections, this experience is best suited to prepared and capable drivers.
How it all began at McDonald Downs
McDonald Downs is a 9,000-hectare family-owned high-country property nestled in the hills of the Hurunui District, North Canterbury.
First purchased by Bill Paterson in 1966, the farm has remained in the family for nearly 60 years. In 2025, Wayne and Liz Higgins took over ownership and operation of the property, continuing the legacy Liz’s parents began. Today, with their family, McDonald Downs is proudly run by multiple generations working together and sharing a deep connection to the land.
As a working fine wool and beef breeding operation, the farm carries approximately 13,000 sheep and 900 Angus and Hereford cattle. The farm has evolved over the decades, but the core values remain the same — hard work, respect for the land and animals, and a commitment to leaving it in good heart for the next generation.
McDonald Downs is more than just a farm — it’s a place to slow down. A place to step away from the noise and pace of the outside world and experience the peace and quiet of the North Canterbury hills. Wide open spaces and fresh country air create the perfect setting to unwind and recharge.
Farm life continues as usual around you, and it’s not uncommon to see stock being moved during your stay. For everyone’s safety, we kindly ask guests to be mindful when using the laneway and to approach staff and working dogs with care and common sense.
We look forward to welcoming you and sharing a small part of our farm, our landscape, and our way of life.
Tom S, Christchurch NZ
"From the minute we drove in, we could tell McDonald Downs was one of a kind. Comfy beds, big smiles and the ride through those rolling hills was the highlight of our trip."
Ariana M, Dunedin NZ
"If you need both adventure and a good place to crash without a fuss, this is it. The team at McDonald Downs knows how to make you feel welcome."
Gareth P, Wellington NZ
"Simple, clean accommodation and a host who makes sure you have everything you need. McDonald Downs delivers a proper Kiwi experience!"
Claire B, Auckland NZ
"Adventure rides were a blast."
Common questions answered
Is the property suitable for children?
Yes, but must be occupied by an adult at all times
How do I get there with a 2WD car?
2WD cars are suitable to get to the accommodation at the start of the property but not past this point. 4WD and high clearance bikes only on lane way.
Is there mobile service?
Please note that once on the farm laneway, there is no mobile phone service. We recommend carrying a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for added safety. Once signed in on the property, guests are responsible for their own health and safety while travelling through to Lees Valley.
Are pets allowed?
No pets allowed.
What should I bring?
Food for dinner & Sleeping bag
Are there any restrictions during lambing/calving season?
No useless briefed for this prior to heading out.
Start your next adventure here
Whether you’re after a quick break or a weekend of riding, McDonald Downs offers true Kiwi hospitality and a unique countryside backdrop. Plan your high-country escape today.
McDoanld Downs
438 MacDonald Downs, Hawarden
North Canterbury 7385
New Zealand
Monday – Sunday:
8:00am – 4:30pm