The Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station

Somewhere past the Forgotten World Highway, there’s an incomparable restaurant where chef Jack Cashmore and his small team serve a standout 10-course menu to 10 guests – it’s that exclusive. The menu showcases farmed and foraged produce from the station and changes every day. On our visit a stash of wood-eared mushrooms was celebrated alongside venison that is grown right here, too. This immersive experience begins with a back-country drive across the land, which reinforces the flavours endemic to every plate. Relish savoury baked custard delicately infused with horseradish and topped with High Country salmon roe; delight in baked Jerusalem artichokes grown in the garden with a sauce that features rose petals and white truffle from Whanganui; melt into sweet leeks cooked whole on the grill and drizzled with a preserved lemon and buttermilk sauce. A curated drinks list, fine glassware and crockery designed specifically for this out-of-this-world table round out an unforgettable event. Check website for opening hours. MAINS: ATV Bush Safari, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast $895, ATV Bush Safari and Dinner $495.