Horse Riding Tours
Half-Day Tours
What are the highlights of this high-country horse ride?
- Half-day horse trek through the hills around Pukeokahu
- Opportunities to canter on suitable stretches of open country
- Views towards Mt Ruapehu
- Views across the northern Ruahine Range
- Lookouts over the Rangitikei River canyon
- Small-group riding with River Valley Stables guides
- Horse matching based on riding ability and experience
- Introduction to River Valley’s freestyle riding approach
- Experience River Valley’s Natural Horsemanship philosophy
- Designed specifically for intermediate to advanced riders
We provide the essential riding equipment needed for the trek:
- Riding boots
- Helmet
- Short chaps
- Long oilskin riding coat for changeable weather
What to bring:
- Long trousers
- Socks
- Warm top on cooler days
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
We recommend dressing for outdoor conditions, as the trek travels across exposed high-country terrain and weather can change during the ride.
Burn the Breeze is only suitable for competent riders. An intermediate rider is someone who's confident and in control on a moving horse at all paces outside an arena, even if they are not currently riding regularly. Strong intermediate and advanced riders are also suitable.
The minimum age is 13 years and the maximum rider weight is 100 kg. The trek is not suitable for beginners or riders whose experience is limited mainly to introductory lessons or arena riding.
Riders need to be comfortable travelling over uneven and variable terrain and riding a responsive, forward-moving horse. Be accurate about your riding experience when enquiring so we can confirm the trip is appropriate and match you with a suitable horse.
A minimum of two riders applies on public holidays. The stables close over winter, with Burn the Breeze operating from 1 November to 18 April.
Adventure activities naturally come with risks to both people and property. We do our best to reduce these risks, but we can't promise your safety. It's important that you pick activities that match your fitness level and expectations. For horse treks, make sure your riding ability matches the ride you choose. Making the right choice helps keep everyone safe.
📌 Booking this trip means you have read and agree to the risks associated with this activity. Download the full Risk Disclosure here.
- More than 30 days before – Deposit not refunded; other payments refunded*
- Less than 30 days – Deposit not refunded; 50% of other payments refunded*
- Less than 14 days – No refund.
Note: *Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
