24 | Expansion into agri-tourism pays off Steph and Warren Burgess. Beresford Heights is a 1200ha sheep and cattle station including 300ha of native bush. Hugh de Lacy AGRI-TOURISM » Beresford Heights • to page 25 Living in the beautiful South Otago Catlins, it was logical for Steph and Warren Burgess to diversify their extensive pastoral farming operation into agri-tourism, and the lodge they built in 2018 has proved the benefits. The Burgesses farm Beresford Heights, a 1200ha sheep and cattle station including 300ha of native bush, all backing onto the untouched Catlins Forest Park. The lodge is designed for couples, and after it opened in late 2019 it drew a rapidly growing stream of guests – at least until the Covid pandemic shut the operation down temporarily. Steph Burgess’ response to that set-back was to use the time finding out more about agri-tourism and its impact on traditional farming operations, and to this end took part in an Agri-Tourism Success Programme, run by consultant Marijka Dunselman. “This covered topics such as social media, marketing, and business planning, and it was extremely beneficial to the operation of our tourism enterprise,” Steph says. Back in operation in March of 2020, the lodge proved a magnet for New Zealanders pleased to be able to travel their own country again, and the recovery since then of overseas tourism has further boosted the business. “We all enjoy meeting people from within New Zealand and all over the world,” she says. “We’re particularly fortunate to live in the Catlins where we’re spoiled by nature with beaches, waterfalls, nature walks and a small but vibrant local community.” The lodge is situated on Table Hill on the Burgess’ farm, with striking views out over the Beresford Range, from which the farm takes its name. Guests are greeted at the homestead, then ferried by all-terrain vehicle to the lodge itself. Leave the crowds behind and explore our iconic coastline, diverse wildlife in The Catlins, or discover Lawrence’s rich heritage along the Clutha Gold Cycling and Walking Trail. Plan your trip - visit CluthaNZ.com Nugget Point Lighthouse
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