McDonald Downs is a 9,000-hectare family-owned high country station nestled in the hills of the Hurunui District, North Canterbury.

First purchased by the Paterson family in 1966, the farm has remained in the family for more than 60 years. In 2025, Liz and Wayne Higgins took over ownership and operation of the property, continuing the legacy started by Liz's parents. Today, McDonald Downs is proudly run by multiple generations of the family, all sharing a deep connection to the land and a passion for its future.

As a working fine-wool and beef breeding operation, the station carries approximately 15,000 sheep and 1,000 Angus and Hereford cattle. While the farm has evolved over the decades, its core values remain unchanged: hard work, respect for the land and livestock, and a commitment to leaving the property in good heart for future generations.

At the heart of the station sits the 23-room McDonald Downs Homestead, built in 1902 and surrounded by gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Alfred Buxton. The homestead remains an important part of the station's history and character.

Visitors can experience the station firsthand by travelling along our private farm road, which begins at 438 McDonald Downs Road (Hawarden/Waikari end). The journey through the station takes approximately one hour to reach our locked gate and the Okuku Pass public road. From there, travellers can continue through Lees Valley to Oxford or head towards Loburn and Rangiora, with the route also available in reverse when booked.

In 2025, we completed the rebuild of our woolshed, creating a modern, multi-functional venue that blends the character of a working station with contemporary facilities. Featuring a commercial-style kitchen, modern bathroom amenities, a spacious veranda, and a flexible indoor area, the venue can accommodate everything from weddings and celebrations to workshops and corporate events.

McDonald Downs is more than just a working farm. It is a place to slow down, step away from the pace of everyday life, and experience the peace and quiet of the North Canterbury high country. Surrounded by wide-open spaces and fresh country air, guests have the opportunity to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the landscape around them.

As farm life continues around you, it is not uncommon to see stock being moved or other day-to-day farming activities taking place during your stay. For everyone's safety, we ask guests to be mindful when using the laneway and to approach staff, livestock, and working dogs with care and common sense.

We look forward to welcoming you to McDonald Downs and sharing a small part of our farm, our landscape, and our way of life.