We were excited to stay at a real NZ farm. In the email, the hostess asked that we don't arrive before 4:30pm as it's a working farm. Fair enough, but after a days drive, we arrived at 4:10 and didn't think it was a problem. Well, we got reprimanded by Florence, the hostess. as if we were stupid schoolchildren for... More

We stayed here for 1 night. The farm tour was informative and John was more than willing to share his experiences in running his farm, as well as answering any questions which we had. If you don't take lamb, be sure to inform Florence beforehand else expect to be reprimanded. It was forecasted to be very cold that night, with... More

My wife and I stayed here three nights while we explored the Milford and Doubtful Sounds. Owned by two warm and gracious hosts, John and Florence Pine, Crown Lea is a deer, sheep and cattle farm about 30 kms. east of Te Anau. The house is a modest farm house with rooms that are small but comfortable and clean. Some... More

We stayed here during our honeymoon and were looking to stay somewhere different to use as a base to travel to Milford Sound. This is truly a working farm and John will give you a farm tour on yuour first night which is fantastic. We travelled on the back of his Ute with the sheepdogs rounding up the sheep (we... More

We stayed at CrownLea during our three week trip of New Zealand on our honeymoon and found the entire experience to be fantastic. If you want to see the 'true' South Island then a farmstay is the way to go and CrownLea is the one to do. Its like going home in the middle of your holiday as you stay... More

When traveling New Zealand you might want to find something very different, and this is it. A cozy farmhouse with 4 double guest bedrooms, some ensuite, and a terrific farm! Rooms were bright and airy. There's a nice front porch on which we were served afternoon tea. They raise deer, cattle and sheep, and have a lovely vegetable garden. Rates... More