Riding through our beautiful trails is amazing at any time of the year. The colours change with the seasons and during the Autumn and Spring native birds often fly alongside our horses. We ride through the river whenever it is possible on all treks from 1 hour or longer. The cool, clear blue water makes for a picturesque and relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy your ride. We cater to riders of all levels – whether it is your first time on a horse or your 100th, we have trails and horses suitable for all levels.
Bookings are essential and we require 24hrs notice of cancellation.
Transport:
You can take the Blue Line bus north towards Rangiora/Kaipoi, and hop off at the last stop before the Motorway (aka The Belfast Hotel or The Peg which is the pub just before the corner of Dickeys Road). We are a 15-20 minute walk from this bus stop. There is a link to the bus time table in our FAQs page.
Exclusive Private Treks
The opportunity to ride with only a guide and yourself and enjoy the adventure in a private envoirement is optional for every Ride we offer. Special prices are in place. Minimum riders: 1. To enquire please email us on info@wrrc-ltd.com or give us a call on: 033-3239064.
Fantail: River Ride – 1 hour $99 per person
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Ideal for beginners to experienced riders, those in a group or on a team building excursion, trekking can be relaxing and sociable or a bit more thrilling for those more capable. This ride is one of our most popular as it includes river crossing (as the river permits) woodland areas and open green spaces. Our horses love beginners as well as capable riders and the river is great for group and individual photos. You will get amazing views of the Waimakariri River and the Snow-capped Southern Alps in the winter, plus ride through beautiful natural bush and wide-open spaces. Dubbed the “Fantail River Ride” because these very friendly little native birds will often follow us and swoop around the horses and riders. Keep an eye out for their distinctive black and white fanned tails.
Minimum age: 10 years
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
Falcon: Extended River Ride – 2 hours $160 per person
Book NowGreat for all levels of riders. Anyone from beginners to intermediate or experienced will enjoy this ride. We are able to explore more of our beautiful trails and the river bed, as well as taking in the gorgeous views on offer through all seasons. Our experienced guides will lead you through ever changing landscapes including the riverbed and crossings to enjoy the cool, aquamarine waters of the Waimakariri. When there are larger groups it will be mixed with beginner riders. For safety reasons we have to adjust the pace to the lowest level rider.
Minumum age: 10 years
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
Blue Heron: Evening River Ride – 1 hour $125.00 per person
Book NowEvenings are undoubtedly one of the best times to ride. There is a tranquility about being out on the river at these times, consequently a perfect way to relax after a long day or even week.
Whilst many people will be arriving home you and your trusty mount will meander through the aquamarine waters of the Waimakariri River (stopping to let the horse drink and have a bit of a splash) and then into wild woodland trails allowing you to soak up the dappled sunlight and peacefulness of the area. You may even spot the elegant Blue Heron on your travels. A superb way to relax and unwind after the stresses of the day.
Join our fabulous experienced guides on a ride you will want to do again once you’ve experienced the state of well-being this ride offers.
Minimum age: 10 years
!!Limited Season from February to mid-March. Operating on Thursdays and Fridays. Requires 24 hours notice. Departs 6.30pm!!
Helmets and a safety demonstration provided
Min 4 and Max 8 riders
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
Kingfisher Ride – 3 hours including snack break $250.00 per person
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Discover the majority of our trails and explore the river with your guide whilst taking in the amazing views North Canterbury has to offer. This ride caters to those of any level of riding, however beginners will find it physically challenging. We ask you to keep in mind that it is a very long time to spend in the saddle for those who are not accustomed to it so let your guide know if you would like a break. Multiple river crossing experiences may be available (river permitting). You choose the pace based on experience and capability. During this ride you will get to know your guide and your horse very well, as well as enjoying the peace that comes from being surrounded by nature.
Minimum age: 12 years
Not suitable for first timers
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
Chaffinch Groom & Ride – $90.00 per person
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Do you want to try something different and have a great One on One Horse Experience? Try the groom & ride option. With the groom and ride option you will learn how to approach, groom and tack up a pony or horse and take it for a ride along the stunning Waimakariri river!
This option is great for team building, birthday’s, children, and everyone that wants to learn more about horses than just ride.
Offered to adult groups, groups of young children or families, but also a great way to get a taste of riding for the first time! Children on ponies under the age of 10yrs are led by our friendly helpful staff who point out sights and birds of interest along the way. With groups of tourists or language school students who may be first time riders and/or still find English challenging our fabulous staff will walk along beside the horses to give guidance and assistance as well taking photos along the way.
Minimum age: 5 years
Maximum group numbers: 10 (2 groups of 10 is optional)
Tuesday to Friday at 3:30pm (days & time are negotiable)
If you have any questions or equiries regarding different times and days, please give us a call on 03-3239064
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
Robin Ride – Half Hour $75.00 per person
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Offered to groups of young children, or families, large international groups and Language Schools and those who may have time constraints, but also a great way to get a taste of riding for the first time! Children on ponies under the age of 10yrs are led by our friendly helpful staff who point out sights and birds of interest along the way. With large groups of tourists or language school students who may be first time riders and/or still find English challenging our fabulous staff will walk along beside the horses to give guidance and assistance as well taking photos along the way.
Minimum age: 5 years
Requires a minimum of 4 people.
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
Jet Trek Combo – $190.00
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Our Jet Trek is a unique combo including a 1 hour horse trek and a 20-minute jet boat ride or air boat with Alpine Jet Thrills. You choose the pace of both the horse trek (based on the overall riding ability of the group) and the jet boat (which can be from Mild to Wild!). Allow 2 and a half hours for this combo adventure.
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
Pony rides:
Paddock Ride (10 mins) – $30.00. Fabulous for the little ones as a treat. A great way to build up confidence. Children are led by staff in one of our many paddocks and depending on their level of confidence may experience a trot!
Birthday party trek:
Groom & ride (45min.) – $60.00 Pony fun, grooming, riding, etc. Party hats included. Minimal of 4 kids required.
Please call or email us on 03-3239064 / info@wrrc-ltd.com to book.
Please note; your arrival is required 30 minutes before departure. This includes helmet fitting and all necessary safety instructions.
What to Bring For your comfort please wear comfortable long trousers preferably stretchy and not too tight (shorts and three quarter pants are NOT recommended), sturdy covered in shoes (sports shoes are acceptable if that is all you have) and other clothing appropriate for the weather on the day. A camera (preferably one you can attach to yourself) to capture the sights. Sunglasses are great for protecting your eyes from the sun and wind, sunblock to protect your skin and a big happy smile!
Can’t wait to see you here!
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Location
Operating Hours
6 days a week every day of the year except Christmas Day, Boxing day and New Years day.
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