Ride Overview

Our amazing Wild Coast New Zealand ride is about a 2.5 hour drive from Auckland city and/or the international airport.  We strongly encourage riders to rent a car as that is most economical.  The crazy scenic drive is though the mountains at one section (amazing views) and on a winding gravel road – best driven during daylight hours.  It’s very near the famous surf coast and quirky hip town of Raglan, with the epic and well known surf beaches.

Rides cover an amazing variety of terrain including the long black volcanic sand beaches which are very unique to the area.  In fact, there are only a couple of black sand beaches in the world and often not accessible to riders.  The riding is specifically geared toward you – those that prefer small adventurous rides with raw terrain with vast mountains that run to the Tasman Sea and roll back to pockets of unique forests.

Accommodations are in 2 quaint (think cozy and very clean) eco cottage which comfortably sleeps 2 adults (1 bed), but if needed, can fit in a 3rd person (or 2 teenagers) on the lounge/sofa bed.  This is New Zealand at it’s most authentic with views of the majestic mountains as well as the beaches far below – it’s off grid with no service, though up at the main house (a short walk) there are facilities that can charge phones or allow you to make any needed calls as well as access the internet.  But of course – we encourage you to embrace the feeling of your childhood – when it was just you, the wide open sky and a fabulous horse – leave the outside world for these few days, it’s the soul reset we all so very much need…….

Both the ride and the cottage offer stunning outlooks over mountains and beaches.  And your fit and nimble station bred horse easily navigates the steep terrain as well as go for a good forward canter on the beach.

The cottage has tea and coffee making facilities and is supplied with local bacon, eggs and yoghurt made locally on the farm, so each day you can make your own breakfast as you choose.  The horses are mixed breed  and responsive – all excellent for traversing the varied terrain.  Tack includes mainly stock saddles as well as some all purpose saddles.

For non riding times or for any non rider accompanying a rider, it’s an easy 45 minutes to Raglan surf beach which sports a few lovely (if not unique) cafes, and is famous for its surfing.  Additionally, nearby are glow worm caves to explore, kayaking, hiking treks, waterfalls, beer tasting and a boutique winery, as well as a famous thermal hot spring or bungee jumping (for all you thrill seekers!). There is also an option to have a
small bus tour that will take you out for a fun day trip – a perfect idea for families.

Children over 15 to ride if they are Intermediate riders.

NOTE:  Please ensure boots are declared at the airport and disinfectant before leaving your home country. The customs are very strict on quarantine.

2025 Dates:   November 17-20, Dec. 2-5
2026 Dates:  Jan. 16-19,  Feb. 16-19, March 9-12
Rates:  $1,995.00 USD or $3,300.00 NZD per person (no single rooms available)
Minimum:  2 riders, maximum of 4 (NOTE:  We can run the ride for a single rider for an additional fee of $605.00 USD or $1,000.00 NZD)

Included

  • 3 nights cottage accommodation
  • 3 days of guided riding
  • All meals as indicated
  • Horse and all tack
  • Guiding services
  • Wine tasting
  • Massage
  • All Local Taxes

Not Included

  • Airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Transfers to/from the farm (rental car recommended)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Any meals not indicated
  • Gratuities for the team at the end of your stay

Day 1: Arrival

Arrival is 1PM or later - please plan to advise us of your estimated time so the hosts are available to welcome you. You'll have the chance to settle in the cottage and relax or go for a walk. In fact, you may even want to consider a soak in the outdoor bath - a nice way to unwind and be "in" the best of this natural space.

A short stroll away are the horse yards and under the stables, an inviting ranch set-up. Your official trip begins with an introduction to the horses with your hosts Wayne and Penny while you enjoy some lovely snacks.

At your leisure, you can then head back to your cottage to prepare your own dinner {if you are still hungry), provisions are supplied in the cottage.

Day 2: 10AM Ride

Rise with the sound of the local birds and the waves below crashing on the shoreline. The air is clean and crisp and the water from the tap is clean and fresh. After you enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the cottage, you'll saddle up and head out for a 3 hour ride to the wild coast Ruapuke Beach. It's a gorgeous ride over hills with incredible views - up through the native forests to the base of Mt Karioi, before heading back down through running creek crossings while all the time hearing the songs of the local birds.

Head back to the horse stables and hop in the car (or you can walk the c. 2km) to a local boutique winery to enjoy a delicious platter with local wines that are grown on site, the platter and wine tasting is included in the package.

Head back to your cabin for a little relaxation, a hot bath or shower and then wander down to the horse yards and join the crew with burgers and homemade chips, (fries) for dinner.

Day 3: Full Day Ride

Today is a big day in the saddle, about a 6 hour ride along the wild coast heading over the headland out into the mountain area . It is the longest day but the reward is views that are only seen between two ears and on the back of a horse. Truly remarkable in every way, in fact, it's difficult to put into words the feelings that are evoked in this corner of the world that is so untamed and unspoiled.

You will ride down to the isolated black volcanic sands for a fast-paced canter along the shoreline, your horse loves the water and enjoys the waves, head along the beach to get to your picnic lunch at the beach with locally sourced meats and salads and fruit. If the weather is not ideal, the picnic will be amongst the pines, still completely stunning, Hop back on your horse for a huge ride back over hills and down into gullies - this is what makes a fit rider work! There is always water and snacks in your saddle bag to keep your energy up throughout the day. This - this is the truly one of a kind countryside of Ruapuke.

When you return, you'll have a very welcome massage awaiting you. After which, you'll enjoy a delicious dinner provided by your hostess Penny before retiring for the evening. You will surely sleep well tonight.

Day 4: Final Day

After you enjoy your final breakfast in your charming cottage, you have the option to take a 2 hour ride, over the beautiful hills which overlook the wild coast and Ruapuke back down to the black sand beach for a nice run before returning to the farm to bid a very fond farewell to your horse and your hosts .

In summer it gets dark around 9PM, so you'll have plenty of time to navigate your return road trip to the airport or your next destination.