3 Day Private Horse Trek in Fairlie, MacKenzie, New Zealand
Horse Riding Tour in New Zealand
This all-inclusive package will be running throughout the year, putting you right into the heart of the action of the station. Horse hire, food and accommodation are all included in this two-night adventure, meaning all you need to do is book and turn up ready to ride. Challenging riding, fast paced, mountainous country! Experience of a lifetime!
Key information
- Weight limit: 95 kilograms / 220 pounds
- Horse breed: Stationbred, TB, and Standardbred horses
- Tack type: Stock and Western Saddles
- Horses height: 15 hh to 17.2 hh
Meet the instructors
Highlights
- 3 riding days
- Explore the station on horseback
- Ride to the native gulleys of Blue Mountain Station and see the native wildlife
- Evening wool shed tour
- Intermediate to advanced riders only
- 2 nights accommodation at Cook Shop and/or Basin Hut
- Gear cartage and delivery
- Homemade personalised food menu
Skill level
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Types
3 days with instruction in English
Accommodation
Basin Creek Hut (1 night)
This beautifully restored historical hut was built in the late 1800's. The hut sits under the shadow of the mighty Mount Peel in a peaceful gulley just off the Orari River. It is the perfect place to stay for anyone looking to get out and explore the high country.
Facilities
- The hut can sleep up to 6 people - the bunk room has 4 single bunks and 2 doubles joined together)
- Small kitchen and dining area with basic kitchen supplies and electric lights
- Indoor and outdoor fires
- BBQ with gas supplied
Bell Tent
Camp out with bell tent accommodation is possible. Please send an inquiry to Blue Mountain Lake Limited for more information.
- There is a long drop behind the hut.
Cook Shop (1 night)
Blue Mountain Cook Shop was built by the Buick family in the 1960s to supply hot meals for the shepherds & shearers. This cosy little cottage has been renovated into accommodation for people visiting the farm. This is the perfect place to explore the station while having a few home comforts. The Cook Shop makes a great base to ride across the station from, with the sheep yards and float parking right next door.
The Cook Shop is situated right at the heart of the busy working station. It is a great place to see the everyday goings-on of a fully operational Merino station. The Cook Shop is right opposite the mighty Blue Mountain Wool Shed. Most days, you'll see our shepherds training their dogs in the sheep yards.
The building consists of a fully equipped kitchen/lounge with a TV, sofas, and a wood fire. There are 3 bedrooms and the original dining room. The bathroom is accessible via the veranda and has a shower and a toilet. Bedroom One has a double and single bed, and Bedroom 2 has two single beds. Bedroom 3 (The Snorer's Snug) has a double bed.
Please note that night 2 accommodation maybe the Basin Hut or Cook Shop depending on the weekly ride schedule.
Program
Itinerary
Please be informed that 4 to 8 hours in the saddle daily. Rides start at 08:00.
Day 1
- Arrival - Around 13:00.
- Meet and Greet - Meet the crew and riders.
- Meet your Horse - Get matched up with your pony.
- Ride to Camp - Join a ride out to camp, this gives you a chance to get to know your horse and get the saddle warmed up.
- Stay at the Basin Creek Hut.
- Dinner - Served by a professional chef.
- Card Games
Day 2
- Breakfast at the Basin Hut - Up bright and early, breakfast and get you and your horse ready for a big day on the hill.
- Explore the Andrews - You will make your way to the native gulley of Blue Mountain Station, stopping at historical huts and seeing the native wildlife.
- Lunch - Stop for a scenic lunch along the way.
- Cook Shop - Return back to the heart of the station to stay at a traditional New Zealand cottage for a hot shower and to put the ponies to bed.
- Dinner - Have dinner at the homestead with the farm owners, learn some of the rich history.
- Wool Shed Tour - An evening wool shed tour after dinner, learn about the New Zealand wool industry and the quality of wool produced.
Day 3
- Breakfast at the Cook Shop - Up bright and early, breakfast and get you and your horse ready for a final ride around the river.
- Pack your Bags - Return home by 10:00.
- Final Goodbyes - Say goodbye to the crew, your newfound friends, and group photos.
- See you next year!
Rider Requirements
- Weight limit 100 kilograms / 220 pounds.
- Intermediate to Advanced Riders only: All riders must be able to walk downhill, while leading a horse. Some walks off the hill may last up to 40 minutes, depending on the route. Walks can be on slippery, on rocky ground, long grass, and steep.
- All riders must be honest about their experience and ability with horses. You will be partnered with a horse that suits your ability. The track has some steep climbs in the open country and the back country.
- All riders must be physically fit. You could be in the saddle for many hours; all riders must be prepared for this. You will be sent an information sheet for you to tell about your riding experience. This ride is not suitable for anyone with hip, knee or ankle injuries.
Instructors
Lauren
Lauren is the main guide at Blue Mountain Station. Lauren has over 15 years of experience in the horse world, an equine bachelors degree and a huge passion for Blue Mountain Station. Lauren will guide you throughout your ride across the station and tell you all about the farm. Lauren also the camp cook and keep you entertained in the evenings!
Sophia
Sophia is Blue Mountain's Head Groom and Guide. She is an all American girl originating from Washington! Sophia grew up riding and working in barns close to home. After university, she travelled the world and found a place here at Blue Mountain Station. Sophia is an integral part of daily horse care and management.
Location
Blue Mountain Station is one of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand, the best-hidden gem in the MacKenzie. The farm nestled under the Four Peaks' Range just a short 30-minute drive from Fairlie. Completely secluded and 100% privately owned, this sanctuary provides an amazing place for any group to come and play with total privacy.
Food
Meals will be provided from dinner on Night 1 to breakfast on Day 3. Preference and information sheets will be sent prior to arrival. Alcohol BYO is allowed.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soda
- Alcoholic beverages
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten Free
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
- Seafood
What's included
- 2 nights stay at Cook Shop and Basin Hut
- Explore the station on horseback
- Gear cartage and delivery
- All-inclusive stay (BYO alcohol)
- Homemade personalised food menu
- Tailored trip to your needs/levels
What's not included
- Airfare
- Transportation
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Transfer available for additional US$ 88 per person
Christchurch International Airport
126 km away from your destination
Arrival by car
Fairlie is a 30-minute drive from the main homestead.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
Reviews
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