Upper Moutere

Set amongst the rolling Moutere Hills, Upper and Lower Moutere are small rural communities, with fantastic views of Mt Arthur.

German immigrants first settled here in 1843 but winter floods forced them out. Some returned later, and they retained their language and culture up until about the 1900s, also bringing in the first grapes to the region.

Nowadays, you will find a village full of creative people, making wine, sheep cheese and olive oils. Stay in unique accommodation, try some artisan produce and explore some of the galleries renowned for showcasing the talent of Moutere residents. Please your tastebuds with a craft beer in New Zealand's oldest pub, The Moutere Inn. Or, for the wine enthusiasts, why not take a picnic and relax on the lawn at Neudorf Vineyards with a glass of chardonnay?

The ultimate hands on farm experience is right at your fingertips in the Moutere, with the Animal Farm situated just off the Coastal Highway. A petting zoo, bottle feeding, llama walking and donkey riding are just a few of the family fun activities on offer.