In the saddle
(Horse treks for experienced riders only)
Travel through three very different New Zealand locations; beginning north of Auckland on the white sands of Pakiri Beach. After five days riding the ancient Maori Warrior Trail transfer to the lush native forest of Kahurangi National Park’s Baton Valley* in the South Island. Finally, on western saddles and appaloosa horses, journey the barren landscape of Cardrona Valley and the golden tussock lands of the Deep South*.
All accommodation as follows
- 1 night De Bretts Hotel, Auckland* Built in 1841 as The Commercial Hotel, this was Auckland’s first hotel. Set in the heart of Auckland's CBD, Hotel DeBrett links two unique precincts High Street's hip fashion and Shortland Street's tailored commerce.
The iconic building has been stylishly reinterpreted into a 25-room boutique hotel. Every room is individually designed and complemented with eclectic furniture, New Zealand art and photography. Throughout its history, the famous House Bar has been the soul of the hotel and has been meticulously restored as Auckland’s premier meeting place. - 1 night Beach Cabin, Pakiri Beach*
Very private with easy access to a private beach, these rustic beach cabins are nestled amongst sand dunes, on a riverbank, or on the edge of a tidal estuary. - 1 night Lake View Chalet
- 1 night beach cabin, Pakiri Beach
- 1 night Maori Omaha Marae*
A very special opportunity to visit and sleep on a traditional Maori marae; as is customary, sleeping on mattresses on the floor of the meeting house. Talk with the locals and learn about life on the marae now and in the past. - 2 nights River Cabin, Baton Valley*
The rustic timber cabin sleeps six. Meals are cooked in a woodstove or outside over an open fire. Enjoy the view of the Mt. Arthur ranges and the pristine Baton River from the verandah; or fish for brown trout, pan for gold or enjoy an invigorating swim. Soak in a relaxing wood-fired bath down by the creek or enjoy a hot shower under the stars. - 2 nights historic Cardrona Hotel, Cardrona Valley
- 2 nights Eichardt’s Private Hotel, Queenstown
- 1 night De Bretts Hotel, Auckland
Other details
- Full breakfast provided on Pakiri and Baton Valley rides, the Cardrona Hotel, Eichardts and De Bretts
- Hand cut lunches and country style dinners are provided on all riding days
* For an extraordinary Dream Experience
Riding Trek includes
Day 1: Two hours intro ride
Day 2 – 4: Five hours per day
Day 5: Four hours
Transfer from Auckland to Baton Valley
Day 6 – 7: Six hours per day
Transfer from Nelson to Wanaka
Day 7: Eight hours
Day 8: Three hours
Non-riding days can be spent at your leisure. If you wish, we can arrange more riding or alternative activities - just ask us for ideas.