Burn the Breeze

Taihape, New Zealand – Great location - show map

Season: 1st November-31st May

Riding Ability: Intermediate to Advanced riders

A ride for experienced riders who want to pick up the pace out in the hills. This is a half-day ride that moves along, exploring longer trails, with lots of opportunities to canter your horse.

Duration: Half Day

$230

PER PERSON

Start time

9.00 AM / 1:00 PM Daily

Book Now

Book as Stay & Play

Book as River Wild, Mountain High

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.

Conditions:

Minimum Age 13 Years
Weight limit 100kg
Minimum of 2 riders on a public holiday
This ride is not suitable for beginner riders

The wind of heaven is that which blows between a horse’s ears.

You are an experienced rider who would love to get out and explore some new country on a responsive, forward-moving horse. Heaven is under your feet as well as over your head on this ride. You explore the foothills of a significant local landmark known as Pukeokahu (Hill of the Hawk).

Close your eyes and turn your face toward the wind

You want to feel less restricted and have a chance to feel the wind in your hair while cantering through the countryside. This trail ride also allows you to experience views of Mt Ruapehu and the northern Ruahine Range and incorporates stopping at some spectacular viewing points overlooking the Rangitikei River canyon.

Our Philosophy on the Ride

Group size will be small, and you will need to be a competent rider. River Valley Stables guides will take special care to match you with a horse that you will enjoy. Before the ride, you will be given instruction to feel competent riding freestyle and understanding our Natural Horsemanship techniques.

What is Natural Horsemanship?

Natural Horsemanship is about the partnership between horse and human. At River Valley Stables, our guides have spent time building this connection with the horses and working with them in a way that makes our horses feel good about their work. It is this connection between you and your horse that makes River Valley Stables unique.

What is freestyle riding?

Freestyle is a centred style of riding. It is not English or Western but has many similarities to both these disciplines. Riding freestyle encourages you to connect with your horse through focus, feel, balance and timing. It’s an incredible feeling when you have that communication together.