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We’re on winter break until 15 August. The horses are resting up for the new season. Book ahead
Mountain Horses Outfitters · Aotearoa

No experience needed · half-day to full-day

In the saddle
by morning.

Never ridden before? Perfect. Our day rides are made for first-timers and passing travellers alike — gentle horses, easy country, big views. Pick your hours and we’ll do the rest.

Choose your
hours in the hills

All rides leave from the St James Homestead, 20 minutes from Hanmer Springs. Morning and afternoon departures, weather permitting.

Backcountry Scenic Ride
Backcountry Scenic Ride
No experience needed

Minimum age 10Max rider weight 110 kg

For beginners
Perfect
For experienced
Welcome
1.5 hours
$160
Half-Day Trek
Half-Day Trek
Great for first-timers too

Minimum age 10Max rider weight 110 kg

For beginners
Suitable
For experienced
Suitable
3.5–4 hours
$350
Full-Day Adventure
Full-Day Adventure
For intermediate, experienced and advanced riders

Minimum age 10Max rider weight 110 kg

For beginners
Not recommended
For experienced
Perfect
6–7 hours
$550

Want to stay out overnight? The Natural Hot Springs Wilderness Trip — One Night is an easy ride to a private hot-pool camp, and it suits first-timers too.

Book a day ride What should I wear?

Have more questions?

Good to know

Built for the
first-timer.

Our horses are calm, sure-footed and used to the country. We start slow, check you’re comfortable, and read the pace off you — not the other way around.

Bring sturdy shoes, a warm layer and a camera. We’ll cover boots-in-stirrups, reins and the rest before we leave the gate.

Cowboy boots and spurs

A morning like this

A scenic day ride through the New Zealand high country
A scenic day ride through the New Zealand high country
A scenic day ride through the New Zealand high country
A scenic day ride through the New Zealand high country
A scenic day ride through the New Zealand high country
A scenic day ride through the New Zealand high country

The mountains are waiting

When the road ends,
the real story begins.