Flat Hills Café & Tourist Park has been welcoming travellers since 1984, when local farmer Hilton Davis had a vision to create something unique along State Highway 1.

What began as a working farm looked very different to the Flat Hills you see today. Much of the land was swamp, with very few trees. After extensive drainage work transformed the property, Hilton set about creating a destination where travellers could experience rural New Zealand firsthand.

The idea was sparked after people began stopping to watch sheep shearing on the farm. Those passing by were fascinated by life on a working farm, and before long, Hilton and a friend decided to create an agricultural attraction where visitors could meet farm animals and enjoy authentic country experiences.

Over the years, Flat Hills became much more than an attraction. Deer, horses, sheep and many other animals joined the farm, demonstrations became a regular feature, and a café was added to cater for the growing number of visitors. What started as a simple stop soon became a popular destination for families, tour groups and travellers exploring New Zealand.

Flat Hills became well known throughout the tourism industry, welcoming thousands of domestic and international visitors each year. At its peak, it wasn’t unusual for several tour coaches to arrive at once, alongside regular travellers and locals enjoying the café.

As the business continued to grow, it evolved into the destination it is today; combining a welcoming café, accommodation, camping, family attractions and genuine rural hospitality.

Today, Flat Hills is proudly owned by Peckham Spring Limited and managed by Cheryl Gray and Jack Dekeuleneer, who took over the day-to-day management in 2026.

Their vision is to honour the history of Flat Hills while continuing to grow it for future generations. From refreshing the café menu and accommodation to introducing new events and creating memorable family experiences, Cheryl and Jack are passionate about making every guest feel welcome.

Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, staying the night in one of the pods or cottage, bringing the kids to meet the animals, or simply taking a break on your journey, we hope you’ll experience the warm country hospitality that has been at the heart of Flat Hills for more than 40 years.

Cheryl is currently gathering stories of the history and building a timeline of the journey of Flat Hills, so keep an eye out on the Flat Hills Facebook page and come back to this page and you are sure to find interesting updates and records of the goings on that have led to the Flat Hills known and loved today.