Description
Join the extremely friendly and passionate owners, Don and Gail, for a day in the saddle at Cape Farewell Horse Treks, in Puponga, New Zealand. Don and Gail believe that they live in the most beautiful place in New Zealand, and we tend to agree.
The amazing variety of scenery as you trek around on horseback will leave you in total awe and the thrill of the ride will have you grinning from ear to ear. If that's not enough to rein you in (pun intended), the adrenaline-filled thrill of a canter along Wharariki Beach will ensure you never forget your experience at Cape Farewell.
Cape Farewell Horse Treks are Department of Conservation and Qualmark approved, and suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels. The excellent horse trek tour guides are highly experienced and dedicated to ensuring your safety and comfort. There are several great horse treks to choose from, depending upon time and location preferences.
Puponga Beach (1.5hrs) - All levels (children 4yrs+)
From the base, you will trek down the road and across the estuary, before heading through the Manuka and out into Puponga Channel, which leads you onto the tidal beach. The old wharf with its historical relics will fascinate you and the return track – with its gorgeous views of Golden Bay – ensures a perfect final leg of your ride. You may even spot a seal! This is a great all round trek with a good variety of terrain and an opportunity to ride fast if you choose to. Great for families and time-limited horse lovers.
Old Man Range (2.5hrs) - All levels (children 13yrs+)
Classed by Fodor's Guide as the most scenic horse trek in New Zealand, this trek has it all – roads to flat, hills, grassy paddocks and sandstone tracks, not to mention world-class views! The sensational scenery includes Farewell Spit, and hopefully a whale or two if you are lucky. There are plenty of opportunities for a fast pace along this trek and it is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Wharariki Beach (3.5hrs) - Experienced riders only
This amazing trek combines aqua with equine in an amazing three hour long adventure. More suited to adults, teenagers and older children (10 and above, unless they have riding experience), this is where you can give your horse the opportunity to really stretch its legs! Climb above the beach, over the Puponga Farm Park hills and onto the beach itself. You will be able to ride through the caves and see the gorgeous seals with their babies, playing in the rock pools. See gorgeous ocean scenery and enjoy the views of the Kahurangi National Park before going for a canter along the sandy stretch – there is really nothing like it!
Trip Includes
- Guided horse trek
- Informative & friendly guides
- All gear supplied (helmets, jackets)
Duration
- Allow 2 - 4 hours depending on the ride you choose
Departures
- Morning & afternoon
- Cape Farewell Horse Treks is located in Puponga, 26kms north of Collingwood & 2.5hrs from Nelson
- Operates daily all year
Other Information
- You will need to make your own way to the stables in Puponga
- Puponga Beach ideal for those with no experience
- The Wharariki Beach Ride departs when the tide is at it's lowest point. This varies during the year with the tides and moon. Contact us for departure times. This ride is for experienced riders only
- Operates all year round
- Wear sturdy footwear (toes enclosed)
- Bring your camera, sunglasses, lunch & water
Hi Philip. The Cape Farewell horse ride departure times depend on the tides and moon etc. If you could give me an idea of when you were thinking of doing this I can let you know approximately what the departure times will be. Did you have a specific date in mind?
Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 21st Sep 14 at 20:39