Highway 85, Wedderburn

Sharing Rail Trail experiences with friends is one thing, but it's something else again to say you stayed on a 8000 hectare high country sheep station. 8000 hectares (almost 20,000 acres) is equivalent to 80 square kilometres which isn't far short of the 96 square kilometres occupied by Hamilton, New Zealand's largest inland city and home to over 130,000. Mt Ida Station's 18,500 sheep and cattle are far less crowded

This lovingly maintained 1920s farmhouse, which until recently has been home to the Becker family, offers unique accommodation in Wedderburn. Only metres off the Rail Trail and a few pedal turns from the highest point plinth, the three bedroom homestead has been refreshed and furnished by Tina and Greg into Rail Trailer, family-friendly accommodation.

For young guests there's an open invitation to make friends and play with the three Becker children. And while young ones are away enjoying themselves, mum and dad can relax and sooth tired leg muscles in a bath tingling with Radox bath salts (bathroom also has a shower) or slip into the swirling waters of the outdoor spa pool. Accommodation is a double, two superkings which convert to two super singles.

There's a fully equipped modern country kitchen for self-catering , or take advantage of Tina and Greg's offer of a courtesy vehicle for dining at a choice of two local taverns. The comfy lounge has FreeView TV and DVD player with a library of movies including kids' favourites.

Now here's a thought. Why not discover for yourself the inside story of running an 8000 hectare station. By prior arrangement, Greg is more than happy to take guests on a tour of farm operations. Which to make the most of should be at least a two-night stay at Mt Ida Farmstay.

Mt Ida Farmstay offers:

• Warm and inviting sunny rooms
• Log burner
• Complimentary home-baked afternoon tea
• Generous country-style continental breakfast included in tariff
• Quality beds and all linen provided
• Laundry with washing machine
• Horses and riders welcome, paddocks available
• Farm tours by arrangement
• Discounted rates for longer stays
• Private outdoor spa pool

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