In the height of summer, the lavender fields at NZ Alpine Lavender burst into colour. From late December through to February, neat rows of fragrant purple lavender stretch across the farm, creating a beautiful contrast with the Mackenzie Basin’s dry tussock landscape. The lavender's colour seems to be the best in January and February, when the blooms are fullest.

It’s the largest certified organic lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere and a lovely place to wander and take photos. There is a small entry fee to walk amongst the lavender and there are fun photo props scattered around the fields including chairs, lace umbrellas, a purple tractor and even bikes you can ride up and down the lavender rows (these may change each season).

You don’t have to pay to enter to see the lavender though as you can view it from the fence next to the car park or enjoy it from one of the picnic tables.

There’s an ice cream truck on site selling some of the most delicious lavender ice creams! Our favourite is the vanilla, honey and lavender ice cream, topped with crunchy bee pollen - sooooo good.

There’s also a shop on site stocked with lavender products including soaps, skincare and gifts.

NZ Alpine Lavender Farm is located on Mount Cook Road (State Highway 80), on the way to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. There’s plenty of parking available.

Tips for visiting the New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm:

• Harvest timing changes each season, so you can call/email ahead to check when the lavender is being harvest but the lavender is visible from the highway, so it’s usually obvious when you drive past if it’s in bloom or not.

• Entry cost into the lavender field isn't too much per person, so choose whether you'd like to go in to get photos and be close to the lavender or take photos from by the store (no cost outside of the fenced area).

• NZ Alpine Lavender operates between November and April (closed Christmas Day), so even if there is no lavender in bloom, you can still enjoy the ice cream and gift shop.

• It can get very busy here over the holidays so if you're wanting photos with just you in them, head to one of the rows away from the entrance as there will be less people there.