About Heights Experience
Heights Experience is a unique rural event venue and shooting range set on a 2,200-acre, 5th-generation sheep and beef farm near Shannon (Koputaroa) in the Horowhenua District of Manawatū-Whanganui (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.newzealand.com ). It centres on a restored 1905 woolshed – once the community shearing shed for local farms (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.scoop.co.nz ) – that has been refurbished into a rustic event space. Surrounded by rolling farm country and the Tararua Ranges, the venue blends authentic rural charm with modern amenities (like Wi-Fi, a kitchenette and BBQ area). Signature offerings include clay bird shooting, archery, axe-throwing and lawn games (www.newzealand.com ) (heightsexperience.co.nz ). The experience is notable for its family-run heritage (the Robinson family has farmed here since 1907 (www.scoop.co.nz )) and its combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and Kiwi farm hospitality. It draws both locals and visitors seeking an out-of-ordinary adventure or celebration in the heart of New Zealand’s countryside.
Events and Programming
Heights Experience operates mostly by pre-booked events (corporate team-building days, farm celebrations, stag/hen parties, birthdays, and small weddings) rather than a regular public entertainment schedule. Typical bookings include group packages of clay shooting, archery and axe-throwing (ranging $90–$150 per person) (heightsexperience.co.nz ). The venue hosts these activities mainly on Fridays and Saturdays, with occasional mid-week corporate functions. In addition, Heights Experience has begun hosting public gatherings – for example, it’s the site of the “Ales & Eats” food, beer and cocktail festival (first held in summer 2026) (www.alesandeatsnz.com ) (www.nzmca.org.nz ). That open-air festival features dozens of local food and drink vendors, live music, and picnic-style seating under the open sky. For smaller private events (e.g. meetings or retreats) the indoor **Barn** (the converted woolshed) is used, as well as lawns and paddocks outdoors. Attendees often comment on the relaxed farm atmosphere – you’ll see casual “lawn games,” barbecues and friendly hosts in gumboots – making it a hips and hearty complement to the Manawatū event scene.
Tickets and Booking
There is no box office or ticket office at Heights Experience. All visits are by prior booking or ticket purchase. To reserve a package or event, you must contact the owners directly (typically via phone at 027 457 4273 or email) (heightsexperience.co.nz ). Packages cost from about NZD 90 up to $150 per person (heightsexperience.co.nz ). Popular team-building packages include the full “Heights Experience” ($150pp: 24 clay targets, 15 arrows and unlimited axe throws) or the shorter “Heights Taster” ($120pp: 10 targets, 10 arrows, 12 axe throws) (heightsexperience.co.nz ). Clay shooting only can be booked at $90 (heightsexperience.co.nz ). There are add-ons (e.g. extra ammo or golf challenges) and you can hire the woolshed/Barn by the hour (for $250/hr including BBQ facilities (heightsexperience.co.nz )). Pricing typically requires a minimum group (the website notes a 6-person minimum and a $500 minimum spend (www.newzealand.com )). Bookings often require a deposit (50%) and balance on arrival. For one-off ticketed events like the Ales & Eats festival, tickets are sold online in advance (general admission was about $49 + fees (www.nzmca.org.nz )) – watch year announcements or the venue’s social media for details. In general, popular dates (especially summer weekends) fill up fast, so it’s wise to book early. For group events, simply call or email ahead to plan your day; there are no walk-up sales at the gate except special public events that advertise online.
Seating and Layout
Heights Experience is largely an open-air facility with one main indoor structure (the refurbished woolshed/Barn). The Barn is an intimate meeting/event room – it seats up to 20 at tables (for lunch or dinner) with standing room for about 50 more (heightsexperience.co.nz ). The layout is informal: long rustic tables, wooden benches and open space. If you book the Barn, you can gather round a central fireplace or kitchen bench and enjoy catering. Outside, the venue has wide gravel walkways leading across grassy lawns and ranges, with plenty of room to spread out. There are no fixed theatre seats or numbered tickets – activities like clay shooting take place on open ranges and targets. At festivals or gatherings, people typically bring picnic blankets or folding chairs on the lawn near the stage or vendor area. The best “seats” depend on the event: for the food festival, shade tents and lawn spaces are set up; for group days, participants rotate through shooting stands or archery targets in small teams. The property’s flat terrain means viewing over fields is easy – no obstructions. Sound carries clearly across the open air, and lighting for evening activities (like a bonfire or inside the Barn) is simple – think string lights and rustic lanterns rather than nightclub-style spots.
Getting There and Parking
Heights Experience is located at 46 Te Rohenga Road, Koputaroa (just off State Highway 57) (www.newzealand.com ). It’s about 10 km northeast of Levin town, 25 km south of Palmerston North, and roughly 100 km north of Wellington. The approach is a short gravel road from SH57 (watch for the sign at Koputaroa). There is abundant free parking on site – a large flat lot with room for cars, vans, coaches or even motorhomes (manawatunz.co.nz ) (thecommunity.co.nz ). The farm access road and parking area are wide and well-graveled, so most vehicles (including buses) can enter easily. If you have a campervan, motorhome or caravan, it can also park in the field during festivals (or by arrangement). Rideshares or taxis will drop you at the gate; as there’s no public shuttle, the best bet for those without cars is to take public transit to Levin or Shannon and then taxi/Rideshare from there. The nearest train station is at Levin (roads access to the farm from Levin is about 12 km, roughly a 15-minute drive). Palmerston North Airport is ~35 minutes away by car, and Wellington Airport about 1.5–2 hours driving. If you’re coming from the city on event day, note that Te Rohenga Road is a rural road – it’s wide but unsheltered, so drive carefully (especially after dark). Once on site, the venue layout is easy to navigate on foot: the Barn and toilet block are near the car park, and outdoor activity areas spread out beyond. Overall, accessibility is good: there’s a disabled parking stall and ramp access to the Barn, and level ground to the sheds.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, an attendant will usually greet you at the Barn or farm office. For shooting activities, you’ll sign a waiver and put on provided safety gear (ear and eye protection for shooting; gloves for axes, etc.). Animal-free policy: live farm animals are kept separate, but note that dogs and pets are not permitted anywhere on site (for safety and livestock reasons) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Inside the Barn you’ll find a casual lounge/game area and kitchen facilities (including a BBQ, fridge and crockery). The Barn is decorated with old farm equipment and photos, giving it a classic Kiwi rural feel. There is free Wi-Fi and a speaker system in the Barn (useful for corporate presentations or music). The owners often set quieter acoustic music or tunes during meal breaks. Restrooms (toilets) are in a separate block near the Barn; they are unisex and basic but clean. If you booked catering, you might find an onsite chef or food-cart setting up – otherwise, making your own family-style lunch on the BBQ is common. Water, tea and coffee stations are usually available (as part of packages) (heightsexperience.co.nz ). No ticket scanning at a door – rather, after check-in you’re free to move between activities. Security is minimal (as this is private farmland), but staff keep an eye out on proceedings. If you need to connect your laptop or phone, the Barn’s strong internet connection covers most of the yard. Otherwise cell coverage (Vodafone/ Spark) is usually fine (or bring a hotspot just in case). Dress code is informal: think comfortable country casual – sturdy shoes or boots are encouraged (especially for outdoor activities) and sunscreen/hat for sun. Because it’s a rural site, things get dusty or muddy in wet weather, so an extra layer or raincoat in cooler months is wise. The overall atmosphere is very relaxed and friendly – groups relax with drinks at picnic tables between activities, chat by the firepit at night, and browse merchandise or local brews at any stall events.
Nearby Amenities
While Heights Experience itself is remote, a few conveniences are nearby. The small settlement of Shannon is just 3–4 km away, with a café (The Horseman’s) and a general store for last-minute groceries or coffee. About 10 km away is the town of Levin, which has supermarkets, petrol stations and several cafes/restaurants (e.g. Whispers Cafe, The Post Office Greendale, and local pizza/takeaway shops). Levin also has a liquor store (“bottle shop”) if you need to pick up beers or wine before an event. For pub meals or evening drinks, Levin has a handful of hotels and taverns (like the Memorial Square Bar or the Levin Club, depending on your taste). Many guests arrive with a picnic dinner or barbeque supplies to enjoy post-activities. If you plan to stay overnight, Levin offers several motels and B&Bs – from budget (like the mid-range Gaerloch Court Motel or Tall Trees) to more upscale (Bentleys Motor Inn is a popular option on the way into town). For motorhome or campervan travellers, Horowhenua has some campgrounds – and for those attending festivals at the farm, onsite overnight parking/camping can sometimes be arranged (with a camping pass) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.nzmca.org.nz ). In terms of timing, many visitors arrive 30-60 minutes before their booking to settle in. If flying in, allow extra time for the rural roads; the Palmerston North–Wellington railway services Levin, from where you could taxi to the farm. Late-night transit is limited – post-event, guests either stay in Levin/Shannon or pre-arrange a ride, since regular buses don’t run on those country roads at night. Overall, the venue is about a 30–60 minute drive from major centres, so plan your accommodation or shuttle accordingly.
What Makes This Venue Special
Heights Experience stands out for its authentic country charm and backstory. The key feature is the century-old woolshed: originally built in 1905, it’s packed with family heirlooms and artifacts (www.scoop.co.nz ) (www.newzealand.com ), making it more than just an event hall – it’s a little local museum. The owners (Anna and Blair Robinson and family) were raised on this farm, so their passion for sharing rural life is evident. Guests often note how the earnest hospitality (the “rural yarns” over a beer) makes it feel warm and genuine. Also unique is the on-farm shooting range – relatively rare around Manawatū – so sets it apart in the local scene. Economically, the venue brings agritourism dollars to Horowhenua, promoting local products and craft producers (as highlighted in events like Ales & Eats (www.alesandeatsnz.com )). Culturally, it preserves a piece of Kiwi heritage (the shearing shed and farm practices) and gives urban visitors a taste of New Zealand farming life. The Robinsons emphasize themselves as caretakers of a family legacy (www.scoop.co.nz ), so events here feel like joining in a longstanding tradition. Famous moments? While it’s not a performance hall for big bands, it may host local folk musicians during gatherings, and every year brings smaller highlights – like the start of lambing or a fasthouse tournament. In short, artists and guests love the space because it’s intimate, off-grid and far from the ordinary theatres or bars. You won’t find pop-up velvet ropes here – instead you get bonfires under stars, clay pigeon clatter, and the kind of storytelling only a farm can provide. Ultimately, Heights Experience is special because it’s built on family history and a love of the land, creating an experience that’s as heartfelt as it is exhilarating.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility and Facilities: A paved path leads from the parking area to the Barn, and there is one accessible toilet stall. The venue boasts a wheelchair-accessible carpark (thecommunity.co.nz ). The indoor Barn has wide entrances, but some uneven ground outdoors may make maneuvering a challenge. If mobility is an issue, let the hosts know in advance so they can accommodate (e.g. bring your armchair or guide you to a flat viewing spot).What to Bring/Not Bring: Wear sturdy shoes (gumboots or closed-toes) and weather-appropriate clothes (it can get dusty or muddy outside). Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are recommended on sunny days. Bring your photo ID if you go to any R18 events or to sign shooting waivers. Hearing protection is supplied for shooting, but if you have your own comfortable earplugs, bring them. Do not bring pets (no dogs allowed except service dogs with notice) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Alcohol rules vary: at private bookings you can usually bring drinks, but for public events like the festival NO outside alcohol is permitted (www.ticketfairy.com ). And avoid wearing loose scarves or flapping clothes near moving clays or axes for safety.Age Restrictions: For safety reasons, gun shooting and axe-throwing have a minimum age of 13 (children under 13 are not allowed) (www.newzealand.com ). The Ales & Eats festival and any similar events are for over-18s only (they'll check ID at the door) (www.nzmca.org.nz ). Kids are welcome in dining or non-shooting areas at private events, but all shooters must meet the age rule.Security and Rules: You’ll sign a liability release for shooting sports. Follow all instructions from the certified instructor at all times. Never handle firearms or axes unsupervised. Smoking is usually only allowed in designated outdoor areas away from dry grass. Large bags may be checked or asked to stay with a supervisor, since shooting ranges require minimal obstruction. Photography is allowed in general, but don’t take photos while someone is on the shooting line unless asked (safety first). Always supervise any children on site.Weather Policy: Heights Experience is weather-dependent. Shootings and outdoor activities will run rain or shine (there is shelter near the ranges), but if extreme weather (like storms) is forecast, the hosts may reschedule or offer mostly indoor activities. The Barn provides shelter – if rain starts, guests typically retire there for snacks and games. In hot summer weather, keep hydrated (water fountains are available) and take breaks in the shade. In winter, note that the farm closes during the coldest months (typically late May through August) – check availability when booking. Also, allow extra travel time in bad weather on rural roads.General Tips: Arrive about 15–30 minutes before your booking to check in, fill out paperwork and get fitted with gear. If it’s a group event, someone can serve as a leader to liaise with the hosts. Vehicles should follow posted speed limits on the farm roads (10 km/h common sense pace). Cell service is patchy out in the fields, but you can usually get a signal at the Barn. With phones on airplane mode during shooting, pick them up afterward to see photos of your clays or targets – everyone likes a souvenir selfie with a clay! Lastly, keep an open mind and have fun – many visitors say they came just for target practice and ended up loving the laid-back country camaraderie.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets or make a booking for Heights Experience?
There is no walk-up ticket booth. To arrange a visit, you must book in advance. Contact the venue by phone or email (details on their website) to reserve a date and package. For special public events (like festivals or food fairs), tickets are sold online through event platforms. In all cases, book early — popular weekends fill up fast.
What are the prices or packages available?
Heights Experience offers activity packages from about NZD 90 to 150 per person. For example, a basic clay shooting session (25 shots) is ~$90pp, while a combined package (“Heights Experience” package) including clay shooting, archery and axe-throwing runs about $150pp (heightsexperience.co.nz ). Corporate or custom packages can include catering and Barn hire. Festival tickets (when offered) are separate; for the food festival it was around $49 GA. In any case, prices are quoted per person and usually require a minimum group size.
Can I just walk in and buy a ticket at the door?
No. Heights Experience is not a drop-in public venue; visits are by reservation only. There is no box office on site. You must book in advance for private group activities. The exception is one-off events (like the Ales & Eats festival), where tickets are sold online before the event. Even in those cases, there are usually no tickets for sale at the gate, so plan ahead.
What is the address and how do I get there?
Heights Experience is at 46 Te Rohenga Road, Koputaroa (RD1, Levin). It’s just off SH57 between Shannon and Levin. From Levin or Palmerston North, drive north on SH57 toward Shannon and turn off at Te Rohenga Rd. The farm drive is gravel but well-maintained. Follow the signs once you’re on-site. GPS and Google Maps will find it by the address; it’s about 10 km from Levin and 25 km from Palmerston North. See the venue’s website for a map or directions if needed.
Is parking available and how much does it cost?
Yes. Parking is free and plentiful at Heights Experience. There is a large flat parking area at the entrance big enough for cars, buses and trailers (manawatunz.co.nz ) (thecommunity.co.nz ). You can park on firm gravel or grass. Just drive in and park; no parking fee or permit is required for day visitors. If you have a campervan or caravan and an event allows on-site camping, there will be a small fee for an overnight spot.
Is there public transportation to the venue?
Heights Experience is in the countryside with no direct bus or shuttle service. The nearest public transport hub is Levin (train and bus station). From Levin, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare to cover the 10 km to the farm. Alternatively, some festival events offer paid bus passes from towns like Foxton and Palmerston North (as was done at the food festival). In general, we recommend driving yourself or carpooling.
Are there disabled parking or wheelchair facilities?
Yes. The venue has a dedicated accessible parking space close to the Barn entrance (thecommunity.co.nz ). The Barn interior is on one level with wide doors, making wheelchair access relatively easy. The outdoor lawn areas are flat but gravelly; a companion may need to assist on uneven ground. There is at least one accessible restroom. If you have specific accessibility needs, mention them when booking so hosts can assist you on the day.
What seats or areas should I avoid (e.g. for bad views)?
Since Heights Experience is largely open-air, there aren’t traditional “seats” with good or bad views. In the Barn, any table seat is fine for conversations and meals. Outdoors, the shooting and activity areas are arranged so everyone gets turn. For festivals or music, seating is informal (grass or picnic benches). If you want shade, bring a chair under a tree – otherwise all areas are open. There’s really no spot with a “bad view” since the venue is flat and wide-open.
Can I bring children and what age limits apply?
Children are welcome at Heights Experience, but some activities have age restrictions. Firearm (clay shooting) and axe-throwing are only for ages 13 and up (safely supervised). The venue itself is family-friendly – kids can run around the lawn and play the included farm games – but any under-13 must stay out of the shooting line. Always keep children supervised near equipment. For public 18+ events (like the Ales & Eats fest), no minors are allowed on site.
What should I wear and bring to the farm?
Wear sturdy shoes or boots (the ground can be gravelly or muddy) and casual outdoor clothing. Bring weather-appropriate gear – sunhat and sunscreen in summer, a jacket or jumper in cooler months. Sunglasses can be handy for shooting. You’ll be given ear and eye protection for shooting, but you may bring your own if you prefer. In winter, bring rain gear in case you’re outdoors. If attending an R18 event, bring photo ID. Other than that, pack a water bottle and your own snacks if you like (some events ban outside food, so check ahead).
Can I bring pets or smoke on site?
No. Pets (including dogs) are not allowed on site for safety and livestock reasons (guide dogs notwithstanding). For smoking, if you must smoke/vape, do so well away from the shooting range and under outdoor designated areas (usually the barn patio). Smoke clears quickly outside, but never smoking near animals or gear. In short: leave the family dog at home and smoke only where the staff directs you.
Does the venue have Wi-Fi, food or gear rentals?
Yes – the Barn is equipped with free Wi-Fi for guests. There is a kitchenette and BBQ that can be used for food; some packages include catering (tea/coffee/lunch) as noted. Outside food is allowed for private bookings, but at ticketed festivals outside food/drink is prohibited. There’s no separate “merch shop” on site except for any event-specific stalls, and shooting gear is provided by the venue. You don’t need to bring any equipment except personal clothing and ID.
What is the capacity of the venue?
The indoor Barn seats about 20 people at tables (plus standing room up to ~50) (heightsexperience.co.nz ). Outdoors on the lawn, it can handle larger crowds – festivals there have drawn a few hundred attendees. There’s no fixed limit on open-air events (subject to council/event safety rules), but in practice staff recommend groups under ~100 to keep things easy (unless it’s a marketed event). For private bookings, the site comfortably fits medium-sized groups (20–50 people) depending on your activities and setup.
Are there any rules about photography or videography?
General photography and video for personal use is fine, especially of the farm scenery or after shooting is done. However, do not photograph while people are shooting – it can be distracting or dangerous. Respect any “no flash” directions. For events, if vendors are present (like makers at a market), they may ask you not to post their booth. Also, keep privacy in mind – if you post on social media, don’t tag others without permission. But the stunning rural backdrop makes for great photos, so most guests enjoy snapping memories of their day.
What if the weather changes or is bad?
The woolshed (Barn) offers shelter for small groups, so shooting or eating can move indoors if it rains. For large outdoor events, organizers usually have a rain plan (tents or alternate schedules). If extreme weather hits, hosts may reschedule. Always check the forecast and come prepared (umbrella, warm layers) just in case. Winter storms can close the site altogether – note that Heights Experience does not operate in the coldest winter months (June–Aug typically), so there are no business interruptions in that sense.
