River Valley Stables

Experience the freedom of riding using natural horsemanship techniques, encouraging communication and connection between horse and rider. All our horses are ridden bitless and barefoot—no metal in their mouths or on their hooves.

River Valley Stables specializes in “Rides for Riders” – from a half-day trek to a multi-day horse riding holiday, and our packages can be tailored to suit you.

Check out your riding ability below to match yourself with one of our horse trekking options.

Alternatively, email our Adventure Consultants on thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz , who can help match your abilities and desires with the right adventure.

Before booking a ride we recommend you check your riding ability using our guide below:

*Sorry but our treks are not suitable for beginner riders. To enjoy a trek with us you must be intermediate or more experienced*

Intermediate – confident and in control on a moving horse at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly.

Strong intermediate – an intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly (outside an arena) and is comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day.

Advanced – a frequent rider who is very fit, has an independent seat and soft hands, and is confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain.

We offer a world-class half-day white water rafting trip with 10 major rapids, as well as plenty of smaller ones, over 11km. Often deemed one of the best half day white water trips in the world (recently deemed one of the top rafting trips on the planet by Red Bull) , and certainly one of the best in New Zealand. Or if you’d like something a little more relaxing we offer scenic adventures, suitable for the whole family where you will be able to soak up the stunning scenery. Or, for the ultimate river adventure, we also offer multi-day wilderness trips on both the headwaters of the Rangitikei and Ngaruroro Rivers.

Whether you’re looking for a short action-packed trip or something more relaxing and discovery focused, River Valley Rafting can provide an unforgettable experience.

Not sure which trip is right for you? Or have more questions about rafting? Check out this helpful blog post on white water rafting and the answers to some commonly asked questions.

Check out our full range of rafting adventures available below: