Description: Imagine riding through North Canterbury`s high country including Molesworth and St. James Stations, viewing snowcapped mountains, alpine lakes, lush native bush, snow fed rivers and rugged countryside which will enchant and captivate you. Relax after an exhilarating ride with billy boiled tea and a hearty meal.

Satisfaction is guaranteed - our unequalled knowledge of the area and horses will ensure The Ultimate Ride.

Location: [map here] Waitohi Downs, Hawarden
Prices: $40-00+

Contact person(s): Lawrie and Jenny O`Carroll
Address: Waitohi Downs, Hawarden, North Canterbury.
Phone: +64 3 314 4293
Fax: +64 3 314 4293
Email: alpinehorse@xtra.co.nz
Website: www.alpinehorse.co.nz

Description: Join us in the Canterbury High Country, Ryton Station on the shores of Lake Coleridge, to travel through scenery that will take your breath away. Your nature encounter consists of an exhilarating ride in the fresh mountain air on a horse especially chosen with your needs in mind.

We cater for exprienced riders ,as well as first time trekkers.
Rides are from 1.5hrs to 5 days

Location: [map here] Ryton station 1.5hrs from Christchurch
Prices: From $60

Contact person(s): Noel Stanger
Address: 17 Acheron Avenue, Lake Coleridge
Postal Address: PO Box 8, Lake Coleridge
Phone: 03 318 5080
Mobile Phone: No coverage
Freephone: 0800 386 336
Fax: 03 318 5081
Email: noel@horsetrek.co.nz
Website: www.horsetrek.co.nz

Description: Imagine a land of snow-tipped mountains, rolling green hills and river-slashed valleys; of ice cold sapphire lakes, and dense bush ringing with birds under a clear sky. Where the loudest sound you will hear over the tinkle of crystal water dancing over brown stones is that of your horse cropping the grass in the early morning dew.
This is a land that has never heard the roar of traffic, the din of people, or been soiled by the haze of pollution.
It is the high country of North Canterbury on the South Island of New Zealand.

Hurunui Trails and Adventures will take you there, to live in it, ride through it and experience it.

Based at "The Peaks", among foothill farms, these treks will take you through working sheep stations into isolated back country, where the biggest crowd you will see will be a herd of cattle.
You will experience silence so dense you will feel you can touch it.

The spectacular scenery and tranquillity will leave you refreshed in body, mind and spirit.

Come ride with us. You too can experience the unspoiled beauty of New Zealand`s back-country. We offer a variety of multi-day horse riding adventures through the mountains, rivers and lakes of the spectacular high country of North Canterbury.

We have the adventure for you that will totally immerse you in the culture of the New Zealand high country.

We are internationally recognised for some of the finest treks available worldwide, and have been featured in Horse & Hound magazine (UK) and many other magazines and TV shows. Ours are also the only New Zealand treks to be included in Julie Miller`s acclaimed book "Great Horse Treks of the World".

We offer 1 to 8 day treks. Small groups + professional guides = great rides.

Location: [map here] Approx. 1 hour North of Christchurch
Prices: $195.00 - $3595.00
Season: September to May

Contact person(s): Heather or Pete
Address: 757 The Peaks Road, Hawarden
Phone: 03 314 4500
Mobile Phone: 027 314 5029
Fax: 03 314 4500
Email: info@nztreks.co.nz
Website: www.nztreks.co.nz

Comments: Bookings essential

Description: Farm stay for people interested in improving their horse riding skills, professional instruction on quality horses.

Treks available for different levels - flat farm land, willow trees and river, hill country to 300mts

Great views of the Canterbury Plains all the way back to Christchurch

All treks include basic instruction.

Complete beginners are always welcome at Kowhai.

Over 80 well schooled horses available

Transfers from Christchurch, private rooms & meals included. Stay from 1 day to 3 months.

Location: [map here] 45 minutes from Christchurch Airport.
Prices: Various packages available. See our website for details.

Hosts: Chris Thomas.
Address: 711 Island Rd, Oxford 8253.
Phone: +64 3 3124 309
Fax: +64 3 3123 079
Email: ride@kowhai.co.nz
Website: www.kowhai.co.nz

Comments: Qualmark approved visitor activity.
Single day tour also available, includes pick up from Christchurch, riding lesson with a professional instructor, lunch and scenic farm trek for $250.00 per person. Senior Instructor holds NZEF Grade 2 certificate.
Credit cards & EFTPOS accepted.

Description: Enjoy a horse trek through the spectacular Mackenzie Country. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding Southern Alps.

Choose from a 1 hour, 2 hour, 3 hour, Half Day, Full Day or overnight trek.

We cater for all levels of riders and can arrange shorter rides for children.

Location: [map here] Five minutes south of Lake Tekapo
Prices: From $45

Contact person(s): Sam Bray
Address: Godley Peaks Road, Tekapo
Postal Address: PO Box 113, Lake Tekapo
Phone: 0275 444 880
Mobile Phone: 0275 444 880
Freephone: 0800 628 269
Email: maht@xtra.co.nz
Website: www.maht.co.nz

Comments: We provide transport from Lake Tekapo accommodation.
Eftpos and credit cards are accepted.

Description: We offer a unique personalised horse trekking where experienced riders are given the opportunity to trot and canter. We are located in North Loburn 30/40 minutes from Christchurch. Our farm is situated on gently rolling downs with views to the foothills and snow covered Southern Alps in winter.

We welcome children and adults of all ages, from total beginners to experienced riders. We cater mainly for small groups of up to 3 riders per trip. Our horses are good natured and reliable. Tuition will be given during the rides.`Your ride should be an enjoyable experience in which beginners learn the basics of horse riding and gain confidence; while more experienced riders will also be catered for with trotting and cantering.
Instruction and safety briefing will be given prior to the ride. Riding helmets, gumboots and chaps are provided. For small children we also have donkey rides available. For your comfort we recommend you wear long pants (preferably seamless) and long socks. Don’t forget your camera!

We offer 2 hour horse rides:

• VALLEY RIDE which is 15 minutes by car from the farm. We take the horses by trailer to the valley from where the ride starts. The ride is varied and goes through farmland, along and through the river, and native forest.
• BEACH RIDE which is 25 minutes by car from the farm. We take the horses by trailer to the beach. This trek is a dream come true for any rider. You have the option to meet us at the beach or come to our farm. The ride is along a river, the sea and through a forest. You will be able to walk your horse through the waves.
• COUNTRY ROADS. This trip leaves from the farm riding along undulating country roads with great views of the mountains.

Longer or shorter trips can be offered on request.

Location: [map here] North Loburn is 30 to 45 minutes from Christchurch. A map is available on request. A regular hourly bus service is available from Christchurch to Rangiora and return (blue Northern Star; www.metroinfo.org.nz ) free pick up from Rangiora
Prices: $50 per person per hour. Valleyride is $120 and beach ride is $150 per person. For the sea trek a minimum of 2 people required. Longer trips price on request. Bookings are essential.

Contact person(s): Wouter and Ellis Stegehuis
Address: 13 Chapel Road North Loburn
Postal Address: 13 Chapel Road RD 2 RANGIORA
Phone: 03 312 8862
Mobile Phone: 027 266 5557
Email: elmoon@xtra.co.nz

Comments: See also Meanderine farm park/stay Canterbury on The TrueNZ Guide to Farmstays for more information on our farm.

Description: Come and enjoy a horsetrek through the peaceful atmosphere of the Canterbury foothills! We are located in Glentunnel, 2kms from the main Highway, 35 minutes from Christchurch.

We operate throughout the whole year. Treks are kept to a comfortable number to ensure your enjoyment and safety, and can be tailored to suit your requirements.

Our horses are good natured and no riding experience is necessary. Treks available from 1 hour up to 2 days with overnight stay.

We ride through farm land in the beautiful Canterbury foothills, offering riders magnificent high country views, rolling hill country and excellent river riding. Scenery that will take your breath away, making the trek a memorable experience. Pick up from Christchurch is available (minimum 2 people) and accommodation depending on number of guests.

Location: [map here] 2kms from the main highway, 35 minutes from Christchurch
Prices: $40+
Season: Open all seasons

Contact person(s): Denise Wright
Address: 241 Riversleigh Road, Glentunnel, Rd 1 Coalgate
Postal Address: PO Box 43004, South Terrace, 7541 Darfield
Phone: +64 3 318 2940
Mobile Phone: +64 212 561 919
Fax: +64 3 317 9698
Email: millslodge@gmail.com
Website: www.millslodge.co.nz

Comments: Pickups from Christchurch is available for $30 dollars per person (minimum of 2 people). Only cash accepted.

Description: "Build a Bond Beyond Belief"

We teach and apply the principles of natural horsemanship.

You will Learn:

• How horses think
• To overcome your fear of horses
• To communicate easily with your horse

We offer:

• One hour to all day treks
• Small riding groups (6 max)
• Mt. Lyford to Hanmer (3 days)
• Luxury rides from Sherwood Lodge
• Alpine Accommodation
• Lessons and Clinics
• Riding weekends

Our guides will will enhance your connection with your horse, using the horse`s own language, during a partnering-up session at the beginning of your ride.

Alpine Riding in the heart of the Alpine Pacific Triangle. We have a variety of trails through farmland, river valleys, and impressive beech forest with spectacular views. Our trails go as high as 4,000 feet, and we often go up to 3,000 feet.

Treks are suitable for adults, young people and children with all levels of experience.

Location: [map here] 145 km north of Christchurch, 21 km north of Waiau, 60 km from Kaikoura, 65 km from Hanmer Springs.
Prices: Rides from $80. Usual rides: half day $100, full day $220
Season: All Year Round

Contact person(s): Cathy Johns, Chief Trek Guide
Address: Mount Lyford Village - Inland Road Waiau
Postal Address: P.O.Box 13 543, Armagh, Christchurch
Phone: +64 3 315 6361
Email: kate@lyfordtreks.co.nz
Website: www.lyfordtreks.co.nz

Comments: All rides include gear: helmets, gloves, chaps, long riding coats, extra warm clothes, some riding boots, digital photo service, hand-out called "Prey Animal to Partner". Lunch is provided on day rides.

Accommodation in our log house, "Pokaka" in the Mount Lyford village amongst native beech forest can be arranged, with discounts to riders for the perfect holiday with horses.
Or stay at Mt Lyford Lodge right across from the horse trekking base at 1500 feet.
Mt. Lyford Horse Treks is operated by Kate Tapley Horse Treks

Description: Experience the dramatic scenery of Banks Peninsula on well-mannered, western trained Quarter Horses on our 309 ha sheep and cattle farm.

Ride safely on well formed tracks through serene pastoral land with spectacular views over native bush and the Akaroa harbour. Cross murmuring streams, pass native forest with ancient Matai and Totara trees. Visit a historic homestead site, watch grazing sheep and cattle. Enjoy the peace, quiet and and abundance of bird life.

Exclusive horse treks for 1-4 riders. Basic riding skills are required, not suitable for novices or children.

Privately guided, tailor-made rides for our house guests, 1.5 hours to full day treks.

Location: [map here] 10 minutes south of Akaroa
Prices: From $110. Backpacker Specials available.

Contact person(s): Eckhard Keppler
Address: 166 Haylocks Road, Akaroa
Postal Address: RD 1, Akaroa
Freephone: 0800 748 732
Fax: 03 304 7116
Email: onuku.heights@paradise.net.nz
Website: www.onuku-heights.co.nz

Comments: All riders are to wear long trousers, closed toe shoes and are advised to bring a bottle of water and sunscreen. A camera is recommended.
Onuku Heights Horse Treks provides protective helmets.

Description: Orton Bradley Horse Treks are located at Historical Orton Bradley Park, Charteris Bay, Lyttelton Harbour. A variety of horse treks with our friendly, fully trained, experienced guides are available, including 1 hour and 2 ½ hour treks.

The 1 hour trek meanders gently through the valley beside Wharau stream, through stands of exotic trees and farmland. This is an easy flat valley ride.
The 2 ½ hour valley and hill trek offers spectacular scenic views of Lyttelton Harbour Basin and Quail Island, plus trekking through a mix of native bush, exotic plantations and open farmland. Suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. We have a Shetland pony for kiddies rides.

You will need to wear long trousers and solid footwear (boots with small heel or runners). Bring a jacket and sunscreen for summer time. Camera essential.

Location: [map here] 30 min from Chch city centre. From the square, travel along Colombo St to Cashmere hills. Follow Dyers Pass Rd onto Governers Bay. Follow signs to Diamond Harbour. We are 6 km before the Harbour.
Prices: One hour $50.00, 2.5hr $90.00
Season: Open 7 days, all year round

Contact person(s): Penny Sparrow
Address: Marine Drive, Charteris Bay, Lyttelton Harbour
Postal Address: 70 Charteris Bay Rd, RD1, Lyttelton
Phone: +64 3 329 4900
Mobile Phone: 027 210 5150
Email: info@obhorsetreks.co.nz
Website: www.obhorsetreks.co.nz

Comments: Bookings essential. Eftpos, Visa and Mastercard accepted.
Pickups available from outside Christchurch information centre. Pickup times: 9.15am for 10.00am ride. 1.15pm for 2.00pm ride.
Other activites at Orton Bradley Park include Golf, Tennis, Walking Tracks, Adventure Play ground, Historic Buildings, Picnic Area with gas BBQ`s. Nearby B&B accommodation is available.

Description: "Build a Bond Beyond Belief"

We teach and apply the principles of natural horsemanship.

You will Learn:

• How Horses think
• To overcome your fear of horses
• To communicate easily with your horse

We offer:

• One hour to all day treks
• Small riding groups (6 max)
• Lessons and Clinics
• Saddle Club for children
• Demonstrations

Our guides will will enhance your connection with your horse, using the horse`s own language, during a partnering-up session at the beginning of your ride.

Treks are suitable for adults, young people and children with all levels of experience.

Location: [map here] Tai Tapu. 20km from Christchurch City Centre along Akaroa Highway.
Prices: Rides from $80. Usual rides: half day $100, full day $220

Contact person(s): Kate Tapley
Address: Otahuna Road, Tai Tapu, Christchurch
Postal Address: P.O.Box 13 543, Armagh, Christchurch
Phone: +64 3 3290160
Email: kate@katetapley.co.nz
Website: www.otahunariding.co.nz

Comments: All rides include gear: helmets, gloves, chaps, long riding coats, extra warm clothes, some riding boots, digital photo service, hand-out called "Prey Animal to Partner". Lunch is provided on day rides.

Stay at award winning Otahuna Lodge. Order lunch or a massage beauty treatment to compliment your ride.
Ride to near by cafes and wineries.
Stunning views of the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains.
Riding through coastal native bush creek valleys and farmland.
All day riding at the beach.
Public transport from Christchurch can be arranged.
Otahuna Horse Riding is operated by Kate Tapley Horse Treks

Description: We offer treks from one hour to over night. Our trails go along the Rangitata River, crossing creeks where you are able to swim with your horse. Through the Podocarp forest, some of which is up to 1500 years old and up along the side of Mt. Peel where you can experience stunning views of the Canterbury Plains out to the Pacific Ocean.

All treks are lead by our very experienced guides who have a lot of local knowledge and who have been known to spin the odd yarn!

Safety is paramount to us so you can be sure that you will be well matched to a horse that will suit your ability. We welcome children as young as four years old or if you are confident we do have a dickie seat that can go on the front of Mum or Dads saddle.

Location: [map here] Peel Forest Horse Trekking is 1.5hrs South of Christchurch on the Inland Scenic Route (Highway 72) or 25 minutes drive from Geraldine.
Prices: Starting at $55 for an hour. Half Day with lunch $220. Full Day with lunch & snacks $450. Overnight treks POA
Season: All Year

Contact person(s): Bert How
Address: 105 Dennistoun Road, Peel Forest, Geraldine
Postal Address: RD 22, Geraldine
Phone: 03 696 3703
Mobile Phone: 027 246 4423
Freephone: 0800 022 0536
Fax: 03 696 3730
Email: info@peelforesthorsetrekking.co.nz
Website: www.peelforesthorsetrekking.co.nz

Comments: Pick up & drop off Geraldine area.
Visa & Mastercard accepted. EFTPOS available.
Bookings essential. Accommodation available.

Description: Located right next to the Waimakariri River we offer scenic rides encompassing farmland, woodland areas, river bed and river crossings (as the river permits). All this as well as stunning views of the Southern Alps and Port Hills.

We cater for all levels of riding ability and even offer Jet Boat and wine tasting combos! Children are welcome as we have a range of very cute friendly ponies for the kids to ride too! If riding just isn`t your thing then how about a wagon ride instead or just chill out in our picnic area and interact with the friendly farm animals. In other words we have something for everyone at very reasonable rates. Bring your smile and prepare to have fun! We are Christchurch`s only Qualmark Endorsed Horse Trekking Centre.

Location: [map here] 15 minutes from Christchurch city centre
Prices: From $35 for 1 hour to $150 for full day
Season: all year

Contact person(s): Erika and Stan McStay
Address: 219 Coutts Island Road
Phone: 03 323 9064
Mobile Phone: 027 242 7785
Fax: 03 323 9067
Email: smcstay@xtra.co.nz
Website: www.gohorsetrekking.co.nz

Comments: Return transfers from the central city are available at $15 per person. Bookings are highly recommended to prevent disappointment.
No EPTPOS or Credit card facilities at this stage.