$20m redevelopment programme for Walter Peak

A proposed farm demonstrations amphitheatre at Walter Peak. Graphic supplied.
A proposed farm demonstrations amphitheatre at Walter Peak. Graphic supplied.
Queenstown tourism firm Real Journeys is investing $20million in farm tourism at Walter Peak, on Lake Wakatipu.

The company plans sweeping improvements to its lakefront facilities, accessed via the steamer TSS Earnslaw.

The programme of work has been approved by the company's board.

Real Journeys confirmed it is seeking to host conferences and weddings.

''We have constant inquiries for weddings,'' company chief executive Richard Lauder said.

''Our problem is usually people want weddings in summer and it just displaces our summer business.''

As a result, it will build a multi-denominational chapel.

It is also converting Ardmore House into a separate restaurant and conference and function centre for 150 people.

A 400-person capacity amphitheatre for farm demonstrations will be built this winter.

The woolshed - where farm tours are based - will be extended and converted into a delicatessen and licensed cafe, and the gift store will be upgraded.

Since 2013, when it bought the Walter Peak property it formerly leased, Real Journeys has upgraded the Colonel's Homestead restaurant.

''Its popularity has grown even faster than the current growth in tourism,'' Mr Lauder said.

Real Journeys will undertake infrastructure works that will include moving its wastewater plant and upgrading the power supply.

Staff accommodation, which at present houses 17 staff, will be upgraded and extended to cater for up to 50.

-By Philip Chandler

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