Some of the estate buildings
1 / 10

Totara Estate

4.7
·170 reviews·Oamaru, New Zealand

Step back in time at Totara Estate, a historic farm crucial to New Zealand's meat export innovation. Enjoy legendary scones!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Easter Saturday

Enjoy delicious scones and great service.

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Some of the estate buildings

Totara Estate

Best Time

Easter Saturday

Enjoy delicious scones and great service.

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Totara Estate, a historic farm crucial to New Zealand's meat export innovation. Enjoy legendary scones!

4.7
(170 reviews)

"The scones are legendary, and the history is fascinating – a true hidden gem!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Best Scones Ever!

Don't leave without trying the scones and tea – they're a highlight! :cake:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Wear comfy shoes for walking the estate and visiting the sheep breeds. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legendary Scones & Tea

Legendary Scones & Tea

Tea Room

Indulge in freshly baked scones and tea, often described as the best you'll ever taste. A must-try treat!

Meat Export History

Meat Export History

Exhibition Rooms

Uncover the fascinating story of New Zealand's early meat production and export experiments. Informative and engaging exhibits.

Sheep Breed Discovery

Sheep Breed Discovery

Paddock Area

Meet various sheep breeds with informative labels. A delightful and educational experience for all ages.

Scenic Estate Walk

Scenic Estate Walk

Grounds

Enjoy a pleasant walk through the estate grounds, including a rewarding walk to the hill for scenic views.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Savor the Scones & History

Don't miss the legendary scones and tea, a highlight for many visitors! Explore the estate's role in New Zealand's meat export history. Arrive early to beat potential crowds and fully immerse yourself in the informative exhibits.

Embrace the Outdoors

Totara Estate offers a refreshing outdoor experience with walking paths and sheep breeds to discover. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds and consider joining a guided tour for deeper historical insights.

Best Times

When
Easter Saturday
Why
Enjoy delicious scones and great service.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Beat the crowds for a peaceful visit.
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Perfect for tea and scones.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Walk through distractions #foryoupage #Outdoors #totara #park #nz #foryou #motivation
@mana_tu_training
2.3K likes • 31.2K views

🎯 Best Scones Ever!

Don't leave without trying the scones and tea – they're a highlight! :cake:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Wear comfy shoes for walking the estate and visiting the sheep breeds. :athletic_shoe:

📍 Totara Estate, Otago 🗺️ Join in with farm activities or enjoy freshly baked scones at Totara Estate 🐑 Proudly cared for by @heritage_nz 🐑
tohuwhenua
17 likes • 541 views
We still think about these scones months later…..🤤🤤🤤 📌SAVE for future travels because this is a MUST-DO, can’t emphasize this enough 📍Totara Estate, New Zealand (search on Google or Google Maps, not on Apple Maps) #newzealandroadtrip #travelcouple #travelhumor #storytime #bestsconesintown #kiwilove #hiddengems
ourendlessodyssey
0 likes • 4.2K views

🗣️ Join a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for deep historical insights from passionate guides. :microphone:

📸 Capture the History

The exhibition rooms offer great photo opportunities of historical displays. :camerawithflash:

Totara Estate ist vielleicht der geschichtsträchstigste Ort der Südinsel für die Entwicklung Neuseelands. Hier läuft im 19.Jh ein Experiment. In England hungern die Menschen und in Neuseeland wird das Fleisch weggeworfen, weil es viel zu viel für die wenigen Einwohner ist. Die ersten Kühlmaschinen entstehen. Das Experiment, gefrorenes Fleisch zu verschiffen gelingt. Zwei Jahre Investitionen und Vo...
reisemitricarda
15 likes • 164 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Best Scones Ever!

Don't leave without trying the scones and tea – they're a highlight! :cake:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Wear comfy shoes for walking the estate and visiting the sheep breeds. :athletic_shoe:

🗣️ Join a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for deep historical insights from passionate guides. :microphone:

📸 Capture the History

The exhibition rooms offer great photo opportunities of historical displays. :camerawithflash:

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Friendly Fun

A quick and easy walk with the family, plus engaging exhibits. :child:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(170 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Totara Estate for its fascinating historical insights into New Zealand's meat export industry and its well-maintained exhibits. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, with many highlighting the legendary scones and tea as an absolute must-try. While the historical aspect is a major draw, the pleasant grounds and sheep breeds add to its charm.

"A fascinating look back into New Zealand’s meat production history. Well maintained exhibition rooms and plenty of interesting information. Super friendly staff that even gave an introduction talk and explained how to best experience the place. Super wonderful, thank you for the great time 🙏🥰"

Helena Ying Cecilie Wang

"This is a hidden gem! I joined the paid walking tour and learned so much about the history of meat export in NZ. The tour guide was very informative and obviously passionate about this place.

The tea and scones set is great, easily the best scone I ever had.

They also have an area with various breeds of sheep, along with info labels about each breed.

I felt this place is very well maintained by a passionate team, I hope this place gets more publicity for more people to enjoy the experience."

Tan Zhen Tak

"We've visited Totara Estate on Easter Saturday.
Whilst the story of the Estate is fascinating and was of great interest to myself as a chef (which I reflected on the customer satisfaction form we were given to fill in), the one thing I've forgotten to mention was how courteous, knowledgeable and friendly the two female members of staff have been! 10/10 for both of you! The introduction to the museum was excellent, and so was to roam the vegetable garden and enjoy a piece of cake and some freshly made scones, which was delicious!
Top customer service! Thank you very much!"

Markus

What People Like

Fascinating meat export history
Legendary scones and tea
Friendly and knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Limited public transport access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Totara Estate is located in Otago, New Zealand. It's best accessed by car. While specific public transport options are limited, it's a popular stop on road trips through the region. Many visitors use Google Maps for navigation, as Apple Maps may not be as accurate for this location. Instagram

Yes, Totara Estate is generally easy to find using GPS navigation. It's recommended to search for 'Totara Estate, Otago' on Google Maps for the most reliable directions. Instagram

Many visitors recommend joining a paid walking tour to gain a deeper understanding of the estate's history, particularly its role in meat export. Alternatively, a self-guided walk through the exhibition rooms and grounds is also very rewarding. Reddit

Yes, there are typically parking facilities available at Totara Estate for visitors arriving by car. This makes it convenient for day-trippers and those on a New Zealand road trip. TikTok

Absolutely! Totara Estate is a fantastic addition to any Otago itinerary, offering a unique historical perspective alongside the region's natural beauty. It's often visited in conjunction with other local attractions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Heritage New Zealand website or contact them directly before your visit. They are often open on weekends and public holidays. Reddit

There is an admission fee for Totara Estate, which often includes access to the exhibition rooms and grounds. Special tours, like the paid walking tour, may have an additional cost. Reddit

While walk-in tickets are usually available, purchasing tickets in advance, especially for guided tours, is recommended to secure your spot, particularly during peak seasons or special events. Reddit

Discounts may be available for specific groups such as children, seniors, or members of Heritage New Zealand. It's advisable to inquire about potential discounts when booking or upon arrival. Reddit

General admission typically grants access to the historical exhibition rooms, the grounds, and the opportunity to see the various sheep breeds. The famous scones and tea are usually purchased separately. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the well-maintained exhibition rooms detailing New Zealand's meat production history, meet different sheep breeds, enjoy a walk around the grounds, and savor delicious scones and tea. InstagramReddit

Yes, a paid walking tour is highly recommended. The guides are described as fabulous, informative, and passionate, offering deep insights into the estate's significance. Reddit

The historical exhibition rooms offer unique photographic opportunities. The scenic views from the hill walk are also popular for capturing the landscape. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it can be a quick and easy walk, especially if you focus on the main exhibits and enjoy a treat. However, to fully appreciate the history, allocating more time for a tour is beneficial. Reddit

Totara Estate features an area with various breeds of sheep, each with informative labels detailing their characteristics and importance. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The highlight is the tea room, famous for its delicious, freshly baked scones and tea. Cake, coffee, and other refreshments are also typically available. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Visitors consistently rave about the scones, with many calling them the 'best scones ever' and a must-try experience. InstagramReddit

Totara Estate primarily offers light refreshments like scones, cakes, and beverages. It's more of a place for afternoon tea rather than a full-service restaurant. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to check with the estate management regarding their policy on outside food. Enjoying the local offerings is highly recommended. Reddit

The tea room offers a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after exploring the estate and enjoying a delicious treat. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historical exhibition rooms with their vintage machinery and displays are excellent subjects. The sheep breeds and the scenic landscape from the hill walk also make for great photos. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally allowed inside the exhibition rooms, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure. Be mindful of flash photography, especially around delicate artifacts. Instagram

As a historical site managed by Heritage New Zealand, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited to protect the heritage values and ensure visitor safety. It's best to confirm this with the estate directly. TikTok

Morning light can be beautiful for outdoor shots of the estate grounds and sheep. The indoor exhibits are well-lit, making them suitable for photography throughout the day. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos of the sheep breeds. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Totara Estate offers a quick and easy walk that's perfect for families. The exhibits on meat production history can be surprisingly engaging for older children, and the chance to see different sheep breeds is always a hit with younger ones. Reddit

Consider joining a guided tour if your children enjoy stories; the guides are known for being very engaging. The highlight for many families is the delicious scones and tea available in the tea room – a sweet reward after exploring. InstagramReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While there is an admission fee, Totara Estate offers significant value for its historical insights and unique experiences. The cost of entry often includes access to extensive exhibits and the grounds. Reddit

To maximize your budget, focus on the self-guided exploration of the estate and its history. While the famous scones are an extra treat, they are often considered worth the splurge for their quality. Instagram

couples

Totara Estate provides a charming and historically rich outing for couples. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the scenic grounds, perhaps followed by a romantic afternoon tea featuring their renowned scones. InstagramReddit

The estate's historical significance offers a unique backdrop for conversation and shared discovery. Consider a guided tour together to delve into the fascinating stories of New Zealand's past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Totara Estate: A Pioneer in Meat Export

Totara Estate holds a significant place in New Zealand's agricultural history, particularly as a pioneer in the frozen meat export trade. In the late 19th century, when England faced food shortages and New Zealand had an abundance of meat being wasted, an ambitious experiment was launched here. The estate was instrumental in developing and testing the technology that would allow meat to be shipped frozen across the globe, revolutionizing New Zealand's economy and its relationship with international markets. Instagram

Visitors can explore the original buildings and machinery that were part of this groundbreaking venture. The exhibition rooms are meticulously maintained, offering a tangible connection to this pivotal era. Understanding this history provides a deeper appreciation for the estate's importance and the ingenuity of early New Zealanders. Reddit

This historical context is crucial for understanding why Totara Estate is more than just a picturesque rural location; it's a living museum that tells a vital story of innovation and economic development. The passionate staff often share these stories, making the experience even more immersive. Reddit

The Unforgettable Scones of Totara Estate

If there's one thing that consistently earns rave reviews at Totara Estate, it's the scones and tea. Many visitors describe them as the 'best scones ever,' a testament to their delicious taste and perfect texture. This simple offering has become a signature experience, drawing people in and leaving them with lasting memories. InstagramReddit

The scones are typically served warm with cream and jam, making for a delightful afternoon tea. The tea room itself provides a charming and relaxed setting to enjoy these treats after exploring the estate's historical exhibits. It's a perfect way to round off your visit, offering a moment of indulgence and comfort. Reddit

This culinary highlight is often mentioned alongside the historical significance, showcasing how Totara Estate offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to both history buffs and food lovers alike. It’s a simple pleasure that elevates the entire visit. Instagram

Exploring the Grounds and Sheep Breeds

Beyond the historical buildings, Totara Estate offers a pleasant outdoor experience. The grounds are well-maintained, inviting visitors to take a leisurely walk and enjoy the rural scenery. A particular highlight for many is the walk to the hill, which rewards visitors with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Reddit

The estate is also home to an area showcasing various breeds of sheep, a nod to its agricultural heritage. Each breed is accompanied by informative labels, providing insights into their characteristics and importance to New Zealand's farming industry. This is an engaging feature for families and anyone interested in agriculture. Reddit

Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended to make the most of exploring the estate's outdoor areas. The combination of historical exploration and natural beauty makes Totara Estate a well-rounded destination. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2