TSS Earnslaw, The Lady of the Lake

The TSS Earnslaw is New Zealand’s most iconic boat and an integral part of Queenstown’s pioneering history.

She is the only remaining commercial passenger-carrying coal-fired steamship in the southern hemisphere making it one of the most unique experiences in the world. 

The Edwardian vintage twin screw steamer was commissioned by New Zealand Railways to service the communities around Lake Wakatipu. Her maiden voyage was on 18 October 1912, the same year as the ill-fated Titanic. 

Known as ‘The Lady of the Lake’, she provided an essential link between the isolated farming communities along the lake and the outside world. At 48-metres long, she was the biggest boat on the lake and carried passengers, sheep, cattle, mail and supplies. 

Nearly decommissioned in 1968, the TSS Earnslaw was bought by a family run tourism company, Real Journeys, and was lovingly restored to near original condition. The vessel is now featured as one of Queenstown’s main attractions, taking travellers on a leisurely 90-minute cruise across the picturesque Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Station. 

Inside, explore the over one hundred years of history, including a visit to the engine room to see the giant steam engines at work. View the collection of historical photos in the mini museum, check out the bridge and enjoy a singalong by the pianist with your iconic song book.

Enjoy a sing-a-long by the piano

Walter Peak High Country Station

On the south-western shoreline of Lake Wakatipu sits the Walter Peak High Country Station, a fully functioning sheep farm and native wonderland.

Stroll through the beautiful lakeside gardens and experience the best of New Zealand’s high-country cuisine at The Colonel’s Homestead, featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food. An award-winning dining experience like no other. 

The Colonel’s Homestead was originally built in 1908, then carefully rebuilt in 1977 after an accidental fire. Its colonial architecture and sweeping grounds evoke the elegance of a bygone era.

Explore the stunning gardens at Walter Peak High Country Station

With agriculture as one of New Zealand’s biggest industries, farming is a way of life. Visitors to the farm get an authentic taste of this lifestyle and breathe in the fresh country air. 

Learn about the farm and the Walter Peak land restoration project to restore native trees, then watch the remarkable skills of sheep shearers and their farm dogs as they demonstrate working the land from the new amphitheatre.

The fresh air and calming sounds of nature are what makes this experience so authentic and memorable. With a full belly and camera roll, reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a relaxing cruise back to Queenstown.