Conditions: Minimum Age 13 Years. Maximum weight 95 kg.
The Ride
The absolute gift of an eight day ride is the flow that comes with consistent time in the saddle. You’ll fall into a gentle rhythm with your horse, your fellow globetrotters and your guides, giving yourself the time to disconnect so that you can re-connect.
For those Globetrotters who yearn for the rhythm and sense of accomplishment that comes with eight glorious days in the saddle, and hold a deep desire to return to mother nature and to lift the veil on this enchanting part of New Zealand while being swathed in Maori culture, then – The River Valley Ride is for YOU.
This ride is a world exclusive – only bookable through Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays.

What we provide:
- 7 Nights twin share accommodation (single supplement also available)
- 8 Days of riding
- Meals (from dinner on day 1 through to lunch on day 8)
- Transfers to and from Taupo on days 1 and 8
- All equipment – Riding Boots, helmet, leather chaps, and long oilskin riding coats for changeable weather
- A full list of what you need to bring will be sent upon booking

What to bring:
- International and regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Accommodation in Taupo the day before and after the ride
- Alcohol (BYO is welcome but not at River Valley Lodge)
- Lunch on day 1
Accommodation
The accommodation varies throughout the ride. While staying at River Valley Lodge (first two nights then last night), you’ll enjoy comfortable twin share rooms with ensuites.
You’ll spend two nights ‘glamping’ (bell dome tents, camp stretcher and all bedding provided) and will have access to basic shower and toilet facilities.
You’ll also spend one night at a traditional Maori Marae (communal space, no single room available) and one night at Tarata Lodge with comfortable twin share rooms.
**For our solo globetrotters who opt for a twin share, you’ll share with another solo traveller of the same gender.
Your Guides
You’ll be hosted and guided by Nicola Megaw and her daughter Janey. Days in the saddle will be narrated with Nicola and Janey’s in-depth knowledge of the land that you’ll be traversing while drawing on the diversity and vibrance of their cultures.
Nicola lives and breathes horses and is proud to have a string of naturally educated horses (majority are Kaimanawa) who are blissfully happy bit-less and barefoot.


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