AUTUMN MUSTER PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

A Rare High Country Experience in the Mackenzie Backcountry

Join Tekapo Adventures for a once-a-year opportunity to witness and photograph one of New Zealand’s most authentic high-country traditions — the Autumn Merino Muster.

Each autumn, shepherds and their highly skilled working dogs bring thousands of Merino sheep down from the rugged alpine basins of the Mackenzie Country before winter arrives. This seasonal movement is a spectacular event, set amongst vast tussock landscapes, glacial rivers, and towering peaks of the Southern Alps.

On this exclusive photography tour, you’ll travel deep into private high-country stations rarely accessed by the public, positioning you in incredible locations to capture the drama of the muster, sweeping alpine scenery, and the timeless culture of New Zealand’s pastoral backcountry.

Whether you're a professional photographer or simply love capturing beautiful landscapes, this experience offers a rare glimpse into real working station life in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, one of New Zealand’s most impressive alpine regions. 

• Witness an authentic high-country sheep muster in action
• Photograph working shepherds and sheepdogs moving Merinos across vast alpine landscapes
• Explore remote private high-country stations normally inaccessible to the public
• Capture stunning views of tussock basins, glacial valleys, and the Southern Alps
• Ideal for photographers, wildlife lovers, and outdoor adventurers
• Small group experience with a knowledgeable local guide

Your day begins in Lake Tekapo where you’ll meet your guide and travel by 4WD into the remote Mackenzie backcountry. As we journey through private station tracks, you’ll experience a landscape shaped by glaciers, braided rivers, and expansive golden tussock.

The highlight of the day is witnessing the annual autumn muster — a spectacular sight as flocks of Merino sheep move across the hills guided by shepherds and their expertly trained dogs.

Throughout the day we’ll stop at carefully chosen locations to give you excellent photography opportunities. Expect dramatic mountain backdrops, atmospheric dust trails from moving flocks, and the timeless rhythm of high-country farming life.

Along the way your guide will share stories about the history of the Mackenzie high country, station life, wildlife, and the unique ecology of this remarkable landscape.

• Landscape photographers
• Wildlife photographers
• Cultural and agricultural photography
• Travellers seeking authentic New Zealand experiences
• Anyone wanting a spectacular day out in the Mackenzie backcountry

Duration: Full Day Experience
Departure: Lake Tekapo
Transport: 4WD high-country vehicle
Group Size: Small groups for optimal photography opportunities, 6 pax per 4wd vehicle.
Season: Limited Autumn departure 1 day per year.

The autumn muster only happens for a short window each year, making this one of the most unique photography experiences in the Mackenzie Country. Combined with exclusive private station access, this tour provides perspectives and moments that most visitors to New Zealand will never see.