About Dusky Ridges
Where breathtaking Fiordland National Park meets beautiful rolling farmland
Our Story
Sandra and Ian welcome you to what they call their own slice of paradise.
Having long holidayed in Te Anau with family, exploring Fiordland boating or hiking, they were drawn to the peaceful beauty, ever-changing landscapes and lifestyle here. They're proud to now be able to call this place home and look forward to sharing their dream lifestyle with guests.
Third-generation farmers, Sandra and Ian have spent decades building and caring for their family farming business in Northern Southland. What began as a traditional sheep farming operation gradually grew into a diverse 720-hectare mixed farming operation home to sheep and cattle while growing a wider variety of crops including peas, wheat, barley and rapeseed. Today, the main family farm is operated by their son, continuing the family's farming legacy into the next generation.
Together, Sandra, Ian and their family enjoy sharing their love of farming and the outdoors, embracing the lifestyle that Fiordland offers.
Life on the Farm
Dusky Ridges is a 500 acre farm situated 5 kms from Te Anau, just a 7 minute drive from town.
While visiting us, you can expect to see farming sheep and cattle, with a flock of 50-100 sheep lambed in Spring, and upwards of 300 cattle grazing in Winter. During Summer hoggets, also known as cheeky teenage sheep, and cattle enjoy the sun.
Besides livestock, we have an array of pets, many of whom are now part of the family.
Meet the Team
Ian
Happiest outdoors, whether he is out on the lake, hiking the hills, or sharing stories from a lifetime on the land. Waking up with this view is something he has always dreamed of.
Sandra
Sandra manages the farm business behind the scenes while maintaining the accommodation, gardens and caring for the family pets. It is highly likely you will spot her out and about in her signature blue overalls.
Team Members
Nugget
A rescue kitten who wandered onto the back porch one morning, purring around Ian's heels, Nugget won him over in a heartbeat despite him never having owned a cat before. These days, she proudly rules the main homestead.
Pet Sheep
Sandra's pet sheep and lambs are a medley of orphans raised by hand over the years. Keep an eye out for the famously mischievous Three Musketeers, and come spring, expect to wake to a chorus of loud morning maaaas when breakfast is due.
Alpacas
The alpacas have called this property home longer than anyone else and seem to know it. Curious, calm and full of personality, they are often found watching over the farm and greeting guests from the nearby paddock.
Sally
Ian's trusty sheepdog sidekick, Sally helps with livestock on the farm. While she has a little less work to do these days, she is still always nearby lending a hand and will never say no to a friendly pat.
Jeff
Son of the family's much-loved previous Labrador, Jeff is more pet than working dog these days. A fluffy gentle giant aka the world's biggest softie, he loves making new friends and will eat absolutely anything if given the chance. More often than not, you'll find him closely following his best friend Sally around the farm.
Chickens
Usually found pecking around the yard in search of snacks, the chickens are an important part of daily farm life and keep everyone supplied with fresh eggs. While they are technically not allowed in Sandra's gardens, they do not always seem to agree with that rule.