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Ridge Top Farm

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Ridge Top Farm

Rangitikei, Manawatū-Whanganui


Ridge Top Farm is a unique opportunity to combine the tranquillity of glamping with a true North Island 'Kiwi farm' experience.

Located at Tapuae, halfway between Wellington and Taupō and just 20 minutes from State Highway 1, Ridge Top Farm makes the ideal stop-over for people travelling the North Island. The 1500-acre sheep and beef farm has stunning panoramic views encompassing Kapiti Island, Mt Egmont and Mt Ruapehu - the perfect place to soak up the central North Island scenery.

The country-themed campsite is nestled into a sheltered spot on the scenic farm, right next to a pretty wetland with regenerating native bush. A luxury tent and hut, a camp kitchen and bathroom, and a dedicated campfire area create a social and relaxed space for a farm stay experience.

Wake up between cotton sheets and under a cosy duvet, to the sound of magpies warbling in the early morning light. Start your day off on the right foot with a piping hot shower in the camp bathroom. Cook a meal on the campfire with the kids, or just lie back in the outdoor bath with a cold drink and a good book.

Luxury camping at Ridge Top Farm is an experience that everyone will love. From families and groups of friends holidaying together to couples seeking a peaceful retreat and international tourists looking for adventure - this quintessential Kiwi farm offers an entertaining taste of true rural New Zealand.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Ridge Top Farm is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the BBQ and other facilities provided in your private camp kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you would like to take a break from cooking, head into Feilding for a meal. The Strong Room, Focal Point Cinema & Cafe, Paper Plus cafe and Sushi House are all great options in the region.

The nearest supermarkets are either the Countdown or New World in Feilding (30 minutes drive). The nearest store selling basics, is 15 minutes away in Cheltenham. You'll also be able to stock up on beer and wine at the Cheltenham Pub.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

There will be plenty to do to keep the family busy at Ridge Top Farm!

You'll find plenty of ways to entertain the family, including board games, nearby animals to visit and the wetland to explore. Golf driving for the adults and hill sliding on sacks for the kids offers hours of fun. Relax in the double outdoor baths or spend some time socialising around the campfire - a glass of wine in one hand, and a toasted marshmallow in the other.

Sarah and Angus also offer paid activities on the farm. Enjoy a ‘Glamp n Tramp’ over scenic farmland. More information can be found under the 'Rates & Extras' section.

If you feel like exploring the local area, visit the Feilding Farmers Market, a 30-minute drive away (9:00 am - 2:00 pm on Fridays, only certain times of the year). The Rangitikei River is just 20 minutes away. Vinegar Hill is a popular river swimming spot. The Rangitikei River is also a popular fly fishing river - with Family River Adventures in Mangaweka only 30 minutes away.

The beautiful Cross Hill Gardens (a 30-minute drive away) feature 7 hectares of park-like gardens, including one of the world’s finest collections of rhododendrons and azaleas. For a bit more action, have a round of golf at the Rangatira Golf Course.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Ridge Top Farm are Angus and Sarah Gilbertson and their three young children, Tom, George and Pippa. Part of the original family farm, 'Tapuae', Ridge Top Farm is 1500 acres of truly authentic Kiwi farmland.

Angus grew up in nearby Fielding. After working on several large stations and mustering throughout the North Island, he bought into his mother's family farm 'Tapuae' in 1998, to begin farming his own family land.

Sarah, originally from rural Masterton, met Angus when she was living in Auckland. They were married in 2008 and now very much enjoy their family life in this peaceful part of rural New Zealand.

In 2012, Sarah and Angus came across glamping - and decided it was something they would love to try on their property and went about creating a unique farm-inspired glamping experience. With 1500 acres of rolling farmland, approximately 4,000 sheep, 300 cattle, free-range chickens, farm dogs, pet sheep and goats, plus loads of activities, there's no shortage of farm-style experiences to choose from!

TESTIMONIALS

“ I surprised my partner for her birthday who loves a sunset. There were perfect views of an amazing sunset all while soaking in the double outdoor baths. ”

- 2023-03-07

20 / 20

“ Ridge Top Farm is a wonderful mix of camping and comfort in a beautiful spot. My family and our friends thoroughly enjoyed our time here, making the most of the off-grid lifestyle with an open fire every night and much wood chopping fun by the kids during the day. We had no cause to leave - there was so much to keep us engaged (and relaxed) - but an afternoon at the local swimming hole just topped off an absolutely brilliant long weekend. ”

Louise McKenzie- 2026-02-09

1 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Ridge Top Farm, thanks to Sarah and Angus for creating and curating a top-notch glamping spot! Such wonderful views and great facilities. The off-grid setting and the journey to the farm really help you unwind from "normal life". Being a short drive to a few local attractions makes it a handy retreat! The tent was lovely and cosy during our summer visit. The views and sunsets on the property are magic! Thanks again! ”

Rhys James- 2026-01-14

2 / 20

“ This glamping is the best moment to switch the mind off from all the hard work for the year. A place where we can breathe deeply, and the brain can calm from the crazy circle round. ”

Shirvaun Abbott- 2026-01-09

3 / 20

“ Excellent location and great setup, will definitely be staying again! ”

Karen Hemingway- 2025-12-11

4 / 20

“ We absolutely loved our stay at Ridge Top Farm. We took our two-year-old and the glamping tent was perfect for us all with the main bed and a single. We loved the kitchen facilities which felt clean and user friendly while still feeling like you were camping. The surrounds felt safe for our two-year-old to run around with a clearly defined area for the campsite. We would love to come back with extended family to also utilise the second hut. ”

Anna Barham- 2025-11-24

5 / 20

“ The kids loved the unique experience. A beautiful peaceful place. The stars at night were amazing. ”

Julian Clarke- 2025-04-27

6 / 20

“ This place is unbelievable! Set in literally the middle of nowhere. Total peace and quiet. Would love to come back and bring friends next time. Just perfect. Communications from the owners were straight to the point and left nothing to chance. Thank you! ”

Dawn Sparrow- 2024-12-16

7 / 20

“ Excellent atmosphere, communication, directions, and information on points. Helpful and pleasant hosts. ”

- 2024-04-14

8 / 20

“ What a beautiful and serene place. So quiet, relaxing, and romantic. We especially loved the twin outdoor baths and the cosy fires. Love telling everyone about this amazing place. Wonderful hospitality, and we can’t wait to come back again. ”

- 2024-03-12

9 / 20

“ A magical place. Wouldn't change a thing. ”

- 2024-03-12

10 / 20

“ Such a peaceful setting. Excellent facilities. ”

- 2023-12-09

11 / 20

“ Such a great spot for our small work team to get away for the night to celebrate a great year of work successes. Cosy fireplaces, plenty of outdoor space for games, all the facilities you could need—this place is amazing. ”

- 2023-11-27

12 / 20

“ We absolutely loved our stay. We booked again to bring our boys back. It is such a beautiful and private setting that's great for couples or families. ”

- 2023-04-30

13 / 20

“ Sarah and Angus have created a truly lovely getaway. Private, comfortable, cute, peaceful and innovative. A perfect romantic getaway or a chance for a group get together. ”

- 2023-04-27

14 / 20

“ Great stay in the middle of nowhere with the sheep and cattle. ”

- 2023-04-06

15 / 20

“ It was perfect getaway for a couple of days! Amazing atmosphere and beautiful place in contact with the nature! ”

- 2023-03-25

16 / 20

“ This was a great adventure. One of the best farms walks in New Zealand. ”

- 2023-03-24

17 / 20

“ We recently stayed at Ridge Top Farm. The facilities were amazing and the view was superb. We would recommend anyone to stay here. It's the perfect setting for a few days away. ”

- 2023-03-08

18 / 20

“ Ridge Top Farm was just what the doctor ordered, complete peace and quiet, able to wind down in a wonderful setting was pure bliss for my husband and I - without the kids. We loved lighting the established fireplaces, having an outdoor bath, and watching the sunset up on the hill. Definitely recommend. We will bring the kids for a trip here one day! ”

- 2023-03-07

19 / 20

“ I surprised my partner for her birthday who loves a sunset. There were perfect views of an amazing sunset all while soaking in the double outdoor baths. ”

- 2023-03-07

20 / 20

“ Ridge Top Farm is a wonderful mix of camping and comfort in a beautiful spot. My family and our friends thoroughly enjoyed our time here, making the most of the off-grid lifestyle with an open fire every night and much wood chopping fun by the kids during the day. We had no cause to leave - there was so much to keep us engaged (and relaxed) - but an afternoon at the local swimming hole just topped off an absolutely brilliant long weekend. ”

Louise McKenzie- 2026-02-09

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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