Lodge to Lodge Multi-Day Horse Riding Holiday
Taihape, New Zealand – Great location - show map
Duration: 2 Days / 2 Nights
$2190
2 Pax Twin Share or Double
$1295
per person for single*
*Minimum requirement of 2 people per trip. If you are travelling on your own please enquire to see what dates are available.
Conditions:
- Minimum Age 13 Years.
- Maximum weight 95 KGs
Season:1st January to 30th March
Riding Ability: Intermediate-Advanced
Join An Existing Trip:
No dates for next season yet – please check back
Or enquire for custom departure dates (minimum 2 people)
A 2-day adventure with a demanding ride by day, followed by a touch of luxury by night. This ride takes you down into the spectacular Rangitikei river gorge, crossing the river several times before reaching your destination.
Before booking a ride we recommend you check your riding ability using our guide below:
Beginner – reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
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.
The Drive into North Island High Country
Every corner a new vista, the great volcanoes of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe out to the north, the Ruahine Ranges to the East.
You will become a part of these hills and deep river canyons while exploring and trekking over this, at times, dramatic landscape.
The True Base for Adventures
Dinner the first night inside River Valley Lodge a true base for adventures and holidays on horseback. There is the hustle and bustle of other people preparing for the next day, some white water rafting, some horse back riding. There is a sense of excitement in the air.
Leaving the main Lodge and heading back to your room, it is as if you have entered another world. The darkness is quiet, it is hushed, except for the ever present sound of the river.
A sound that is urging you to explore. Tomorrow you will answer that call.
Meeting the Horses
A hearty breakfast, then up to the Stables to meet the horses. Strong sure footed hill country trekking horses.
You will already have indicated the type of saddle you preferred, and as much as possible, this preference has been met. Soon you are mounted, and heading out of the yards for the big adventure.
And what an adventure. You will ride around the flanks of 3000′ high Pukeokahu, before following a trail down into the Rangitikei River Canyon.
A canyon of immense papa cliffs, river terraces, and crystal clear water. That water will need to be crossed a number of times as you travel downstream towards your destination, Tarata Fishaway Lodge.
Feet Up Time
Late afternoon, horses have been fed and let go, you can put your feet up, a well earned glass of wine, and soak in the hot tub.
After relaxing, it will be time to head over to the Tarata Homestead for dinner. Conversation round the table of horses, rivers, fish and landscapes.
Bed with dreams of Horses, Rivers and Landscapes
Bed that night feels so good. On the breeze you can hear the river talking to you still, telling you about tomorrow. Come and explore more it says.
The next day, as you head back towards River Valley Lodge, there will be more river crossings, and then up and over the summit of Pukeokahu. Everywhere you look is full of one picture postcard scene after another. A late lunch is spent taking it all in.
Home and the Magic of Memories
All too soon, the gate into the Stables yard closes after the last horse. Home. This adventure is over, except for the magic of memories.
The Details
Minimum Age – 13 Years – (we do make exceptions to this if a younger person has extensive riding experience)
This ride is only suitable for people who have at least an Intermediate riding ability. It is not suitable for novice or beginner riders.
Gallery
Accommodation
The first night is spent at River Valley Lodge. Check in any time from 3pm and relax in a deluxe ensuite guest room. Enjoy a 3 course dinner made with free range, organic meat and fresh vegetables from our on-site gardens.
The second night is spent at Tarata Fishaway lodge. To recover from your day in the saddle, take a soak in the hot tub, overlooking the river. Then head over to the homestead for a home cooked dinner.
Rooms can be made up as doubles or twin.
Make sure you bring your swimwear to enjoy complimentary use of the spa facilities.
What we provide:
- Riding Boots, helmet, leather chaps, and long oilskin riding coats for changeable weather
- Meals provided – 2 x Cooked Breakfasts, 2 x 3 Course Dinners, 2 x Trekkers Lunches.
- Meals (from dinner on day 1 through to lunch on day 8)
- Rides – 2 x full days riding
- Accommodation – Deluxe ensuite guest rooms for 2 nights
What Is Not Included:
- Travel Insurance (recommended)
- Transport to/from River Valley before and after the trip
- Any extra food or beverages purchased at either lodge
What to bring:
- Long pants
- Warm top on cooler days
- Sunscreen
- A camera suitable to be taken riding
- Lodge clothing
- Swimwear
- A full list will be sent to you upon booking
Lodge to Lodge Horse Trek with River Valley Stables
Have any questions?
Speak to one of our friendly adventure consultants who would love to help you out.
thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz / 0800 248666 / +64 6 38 81444