We can offer rides ranging from 2 hours to 12 days - the longest ride available in New Zealand - travelling 300kms in a loop around the North and 400kms directly South of Waitohi Downs. These safaris cover diverse landscapes from high mountain passes with scree covered slopes to vast river flats to thick scrub and native beech forest. Many rivers are crossed along the way, some reaching 2 miles across, others mere creeks. Whichever safari you choose to join, a good time is guaranteed, but at all times safety is paramount for us. If a river is unsuitable or dangerous to cross, we do not cross it until we know it is safe.
We also don't want you or your clothes to get wet, so it's pretty important to carefully pack everything before we leave. We do this the night before a long trip, when we ask that participants arrive at Waitohi Downs in order to prepare their gear for the ride and meet each other for a chat before departure. Each season we employ highly competent girls as guides to help us, and in the evening they teach everyone how to roll their sleeping bag and clothes into a swag roll, to keep it waterproof and the right shape for the pack horses to carry. We also roll the oilskins and waterproof leggings to carry at the front of each saddle to use in wet weather.
 On the trips, we stay in mountain camps and musterers huts, and where there is little room, we also carry tents to sleep in with airbeds for your comfort. In most of these huts we cook over an open fire or gas cooker, preparing meals like roast lamb, smoked chicken or beef steaks, with a variety of vegetables. Vegetarians can also be catered for if we are told in advance. In the warmer weather we often sit around a camp fire under the stars talking over the day's events with cheese and crackers and the beverage of your choice, whether it be billy boiled tea, beer, wine or port.
On the actual rides, we walk the horses at all times, although there are places to trot and canter at the discretion of the guides. Again, safety is paramount, and we will only allow you to do what you are capable of. We spend about 6 hours in the saddle most days (about 32km per day) although this may vary depending on conditions. We prefer to leave early in the morning and arrive at our camp not too far into the day, so that we have time to relax and explore during the afternoons. This also gives those with aching legs and behinds a chance to recover a little!
Lastly, one of the most important things to remember is that we ride in the high country where you can experience 4 seasons in one day, so warm clothes are absolutely essential, even in the warmer months. Strong boots, like tramping boots, are also essential as we lead the horses down steep terrain. In addition to this, we have compiled a list of things that you need to bring, and what we supply. We just ask that you bring the minimum possible, all of your belongings must fit into one swag roll, or it will be left behind! More details of what to bring would be sent on confirmation of a booking.
We supply:
| *Horse, saddle, bridle, saddle bags, and associated harnesses required |
| *All meals and accommodation on the trip (excluding alcohol) |
| *Swag roll to carry your sleeping bag (can be hired) and clothes |
| *Wet weather gear - full length oilskin rain coats and waterproof leggings (worn over trousers) |
| *Our experience of guiding you on a Ride of a Lifetime |
Your personal gear should include:
| *Sleeping bag |
*Warm clothing |
*Warm Jacket |
| *Towel & toiletries |
*Swim suit |
*Footwear (boots & sneakers) |
| *Gloves |
*Insect repellent |
*Sunblock |
| *Camera & film |
*Flashlight |
*Hat (sun/rain) |
Trips available for the 2010/2011 seasons
For More information or bookings contact:
Alpine Horse Safaris
Waitohi Downs, Hawarden, North Canterbury, NEW ZEALAND
Ph/Fax: +64 3 314
4293 Email: alpinehorse@amuri.net
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