Molesworth Station

Molesworth Station is a sprawling high country cattle operation spread across vast mountains and valleys between the Inland Kaikoura range and the Wairau River. The landscape features open grasslands mixed with rocky peaks and creek systems that run through the terrain.

The station came together in 1949 when three separate properties merged into one operation, creating one of the country's largest cattle holdings. Before this consolidation, the land had been worked intensively for sheep farming for many decades.

The Māori name Rangitahi means converging skies and speaks to how indigenous people once traveled through these lands to gather food and resources.

Public access is managed by the Department of Conservation and only opens between October and May when roads become passable in the high country. Visitors should plan visits during these months and can arrange guided tours to explore different sections of the property.

The property supports New Zealand's largest cattle herd made up of Angus and crossbred animals that live outdoors year-round. These herds shift from high summer pastures down to sheltered valleys when cold weather arrives, following patterns shaped by the mountain landscape.

GPS coordinates: -42.23600,173.05700

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:23