Guided scenic horse ride in St James conservation land. Full day experience.

For advanced riders we can make a personalized experience with challenging routs.

Can be beginners friendly.

You might be riding with other guests, max group size is 6 people.

Ride in a small, personalized group through the stunning St James landscape. Each trek is tailored to your riding ability and sense of adventure — whether that means a calm journey through serene river valleys with gentle creek crossings and sweeping mountain views, or a more spirited climb into the high country to catch breathtaking alpine vistas from the Poplars Range. The ride takes about 6 hours.

Have a look in our social media - Facebook and Instagram if you are curious to see what our advanced rides have to offer. St James is 78,000 ha of wilderness and is an ultimate playground. One way, or another we will quench your thirst for adventure.

Check out our other offers here.

Even though this is a full-day trip, we can easily make it beginner friendly. We keep our groups small, allowing us to personalise the experience and adapt the pace to everyone’s comfort. If you’re fit and keen enough to spend 5-6 hours in the saddle, you’re most welcome to join us.

We’re privileged to ride within the St James Conservation Area — a vast wilderness of valleys, rivers, and alpine tracks. Your guide will select the route that best suits your riding ability, adventure spirit, and the day’s conditions.

If you’re a seasoned rider, please let us know when booking — we’ll do our best to match you with the right horse and terrain for a more challenging journey. We are privileged to ride in St James station which is essentially a 78,000 ha of wide open spaces, mountains, creeks and valleys. No fences. Pure wild freedom. St James won't disappoint and neither shall we.

No matter your experience level, we promise to give you a true taste of the St James wilderness — an adventure you’ll remember long after the dust settles.

Have a look in our social media - Facebook and Instagram if you are curious to see what our advanced rides have to offer. You will not be disappointed.

Kids over 10 years old are most welcome.

Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Please note that we ride in true New Zealand high country, where terrain and weather can add a little more challenge and risk than lowland rides. For safety, the minimum age is 10 years, and riders must have a basic level of fitness to stay comfortable in the saddle. A maximum rider weight of 110 kg also applies to ensure the wellbeing of our horses.

We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellations made more than 7 days before the trip start date will receive a full refund. For cancellations made between 3–7 days prior, we will refund 50% of the trip cost. Unfortunately, cancellations made less than 3 days before departure cannot be refunded, as horses, guides, and logistics will already be reserved for you.

If you are unable to make your booked date, we are happy to reschedule your ride (subject to availability) at no extra cost. In the unlikely event that we must cancel a ride due to severe weather or safety concerns, you will be offered either a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Our full-day rides run in all four seasons, and part of the adventure is embracing whatever the day brings. The St James high country is famous for its ever-changing weather — you might ride through sunshine, crisp alpine wind, or even a light scatter of snow, all in one day. These shifting conditions are part of what makes the experience so real and unforgettable.

We expect our full-day riders to come well prepared for the elements — with layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and a spirit for adventure. A bit of wind, chill, or drizzle is all part of the wilderness charm.

Of course, your safety and comfort come first. On the morning of your ride, we’ll confirm weather conditions, and if the day looks too severe or unsafe, we’ll offer a full refund or the option to reschedule.

For a full day in the saddle, being prepared for high-country weather is essential — conditions in the St James can change quickly, even within a few hours. We recommend

•  Layered clothing, so you can easily adjust as the temperature shifts throughout the day.

• A waterproof and windproof jacket is a must. 

• Closed-toe shoes with a small heel (such as riding or sturdy hiking boots) will keep you comfortable and safe.

In wet or muddy weather, gumboots are much more practical than fabric sneakers, which soak through easily and can cause discomfort or even hypothermia.

For health and safety reasons, riders wearing open shoes like sandals or jandals cannot be permitted to ride.

With the right layers and footwear, you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready to enjoy a full day exploring the wild beauty of the St James.

• For your comfort and safety on the ride, please come prepared with the right clothing: wear layers so you can adjust to changing alpine weather, and make sure you have closed-toe shoes (gumboots work best in wet conditions).

• Scarf/buff/balaclava - to protect your face from cold or hot wind, sun, dust

• Hat/cap

• Water bottle to stay hydrated.

• LUNCH - please bring a bite with you, there will be a lunch stop during the ride. If you prefer us to organize it for you, please choose the lunch add-on at a check out.

•  Sunscreen - the sun in the high country can be strong

•  Insect repellent — sandflies are part of the wilderness experience.