Things to Do
Takaka Hill is a vast place to explore and deserves a holiday, rather that just a quick stop.
A gentle journey back in time
Our High Country Holidays at Hidden Valley Farm offer a gentle journey back in time, evoking cherished memories for our baby boomer guests, while inviting a new generation to discover the simple joys of country life.
Here, children and adults alike can experience meaningful connections with the animals of Hidden Valley Sanctuary. Our friendly, domesticated farm animals welcome gentle interaction, offering moments of closeness, curiosity, and quiet delight.
Set across 400 acres of weathered Tākaka Hill marble, the land tells its own ancient story. Shaped by time and hidden cave systems beneath, the landscape reveals striking natural features that invite exploration and wonder.
Wander into the cool embrace of the forest, where dappled light filters through trees, shrubs, and tall ferns. Birdsong drifts through the trees, calling you inward. To step into the forest, find a quiet place upon the moss, and simply sit and listen… this is a rare and peaceful gift.
Hidden Valley Farm Activities are by appointment only. Most of our animals are gentle, well-handled, and enjoy spending time with people.
Self-guided, in your own time
Plunge in our Stream
A 40 minute easy walk through our farm land and into the wilderness of the Hidden Valley brings you to the Tannin & Crystal streams where guests can plunge to escape the heat.
Children can spent hours enjoying the hill country holiday vibe, while parents relax with a picnic and beverage. If you are quiet you may get to see wild deer.
Explore the Kindness Walk
Take a walk, get creative, and leave a little kindness behind. Choose a rock, decorate it with paints and pens provided, then place it somewhere along our Kindness Walk for future visitors to discover.
Your rock could be an animal, a message, a word or even a memorial rock for a pet or loved one. Come for the walk. Stay for the memories. Leave a little kindness behind.
Open Fire Pits
The property features several rustic open fire pits, inviting you to gather, unwind, and share simple moments under the open sky. Both camping huts have their own recycled fire pit.
Please note that these experiences are subject to regional fire restrictions and seasonal conditions.
Stargazing, Sun & Moonrise
Hidden Valley Farm rests in a place of quiet beauty, where the rising sun and moon can be witnessed in their full, breathtaking presence. The sky itself offers some of the most incredible star systems and satellite viewing. Our stars up here are incredible and have been mentioned by some keen stargazers.
Sunrise Pilgrimage
From the camping huts, the dawn unfurls across the hills in quiet beauty, but for those who wish to deepen the experience, a breathtaking pilgrimage from the Hamlet to the top of the hill offers something even more profound.
As the first rays of sunlight spill over the horizon, the world feels hushed, alive with possibility as the birds break the quiet with the dawn chorus.
Time with the animals, and guided walks
All by appointment. Please get in touch and we’ll arrange it.
Pony Rides
Our resident miniature ponies are perfect for little ones to enjoy a short guided walk around the farm. Adults aren’t left out, we also offer pony or goat walking for a fun and relaxing experience.
Pony time
Join in with our daily pony activities! Help with grooming, enjoy a gentle pony walk, or, if you’re small enough, experience a special little pony ride.
We also offer magical birthday party options where you can bring your own picnic and cake. Enjoy table activities, dress-up fun, and more. Finish with a cosy story time with Farmer Terri or Clairecrow.
Just being with Horses
While we don’t offer adult or large-child riding, spending time with our horses is deeply rewarding. You can enjoy grooming, walking, singing too, or simply sitting quietly with them, a stress-free way to connect with these incredible animals.
Wilderness Walks
Self guided only. Among the farm’s rolling land and rugged hills lie pockets of untouched woodland, lush green vegetation, and meandering streams, where a chorus of birdsong will mesmerise you.
Our forest is seldom touched and we do not use 1080 poisoning to manage vermin.
Therapy with Horses
Our Sanctuary is a true Haven for All Hearts, a place of calm, connection, and quiet joy. For those seeking a deeper journey, we offer thoughtfully guided therapy experiences. These include family sessions, small group gatherings, and one-on-one support.
Therapist Led Workshops
In collaboration with trained therapists, we run workshops that use our environment, horses and animals to help people explore positive relationships, build self-esteem, improve communication, and gain confidence. These can be a day or residence sessions.
One-on-One Programmes
For a more personal experience, we create tailored programmes to help you build confidence around your chosen farm animal companions. With a gentle, supportive approach, these sessions focus on breaking old boundaries and nurturing new courage. Options include day visits or residential stays.
Sanctuary Day Visits
Visits can be half or full day, and must be booked in advance. Summer opening hours are 10 am to 3 pm, with extensions on request.
Half day 10 am to 12 pm, or 12 to 3 pm: $10 per child, $20 per adult
Full day 10 am to 3 pm: $15 per child, $30 per adult
Extensions, family and group bookings: price on application
Visits are paid in advance. Upgrades and extra activities can be paid on the day, for example Adopt-a-Rock, $5 small or $10 large, paints included.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
A safe, welcoming space for homeschoolers, school groups, families and learners who may benefit from a different approach to education. Gently encouraged through animals, nature, and hands-on experiences, we invite curiosity, confidence, communication, and small achievements, without pressure or judgement. Whether learning one-on-one, in a small group, or independently, everyone is welcome to learn at their own pace, in their own way.
Doggy Walkies Club
With limited dog-walking options in the Tasman region, we’re excited to offer responsible dog owners access to our 400 acres of beautiful wilderness for you and your furry companions to explore.
Well-behaved family dogs and their responsible owners are welcome to enjoy the farm, both on and off lead where appropriate. As we have animals roaming freely, some conditions do apply. Please contact us before booking.
- Family membership: $5 per month
- Dog walks: $10 for the first dog and $5 for each additional dog
- No time restrictions during our opening hours of 10am–3pm, or visit by special request
- Children are welcome and can join you for free
- Just travelling through? A day entry is available by appointment from $20 per person. Bring your own picnic
To join we need your name, your dog’s name, an email and a mobile number. By appointment only — 027 526 8771
The Tasman region is exceptional too
All by appointment. Please get in touch for more information.
Caving – Ngarua Caves
The farm is home to a number of fascinating cave openings, offering a sense of mystery and natural wonder. These caves are accessible to experienced cavers only. If you have the appropriate skills and would like to explore further, please get in touch.
For a more accessible experience, our neighbours offer guided tours through Ngarua Caves. These family-friendly tours provide a safe and memorable way to discover the beauty beneath our land. Located just a three-minute drive from the farm.
ngaruacaves.co.nz
Takaka Hill Adventures
Our friend Peter offers an exciting range of climbing adventures on and around Marble Mountain on Takaka Hill. Just a short distance from the farm, these experiences make for a perfect off-farm activity.
Whether you’re seeking a gentle introduction or something more adventurous, Peter’s guided climbs offer a unique way to connect with the landscape and enjoy the natural beauty of our region.
Two more ways to spend time here
“A Peace of You”
Four days and three nights with Terri and Renée, using the environment, the horses and the animals. Open groups, or a private workshop for your business, organisation or community.
See the workshops →Celebrate in nature
Affordable, intimate, and unforgettable wilderness celebrations. Terri is a Registered New Zealand Celebrant and an award-winning event consultant.
Plan a celebration →Tell us what you want…
All by appointment. Please get in touch and we’ll arrange it.
Most of our animals are gentle, well-handled, and enjoy spending time with people.
All arrivals are by appointment so we can welcome you properly and keep you safe.
- 027 526 8771
- info.hvfnz@gmail.com
- 1356 Takaka Hill Highway, Motueka, Tasman 7198