A historic North Otago sheep station responsible for supplying New Zealand's first shipment of frozen meat for export in 1882 is to throw open the doors and allow the public to experience Victorian farm life for a day.
Totara Estate, which is managed by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (NZHPT), was established in the 1850s as a sheep and grain station. Property manager Anne Sutherland said the farm would once again be ''buzzing'' with the sights and sounds of a traditional farm at an open day on April 7.
She said the estate, near Oamaru, was widely regarded as the ''birthplace'' of the New Zealand frozen meat industry, and the farm's rich history made Totara the perfect venue for The Victorian Farm Comes Alive festivities.
''New Zealand is said to be founded on the sheep's back, and Totara Estate is central to that history.''
Ms Sutherland said the day would run from 10am to 4pm and would celebrate all aspects of life on a Victorian farm.
It would feature heritage farm animal breeds, traditional crafts, food and demonstrations of working machinery.
Local authors would also give talks and there would be demonstrations from cookery writer Joan Bishop and farrier Malcolm Oakes.
''This is a wonderful chance to step back into that history and enjoy one of the best heritage experiences you will get anywhere in New Zealand,'' she said.
NZHPT destinations manager Paul McGahan said similar events at the estate had attracted large crowds and he expected a good turnout again.
''The passion and enthusiasm within the North Otago community for heritage and events such as this is incredible.''
