Guided scenic horse ride in St James conservation land. 1,5 hours.

This page is for booking the morning ride, start at winter time is 10 am unless specified differently at time of booking.

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 1 hour and 30-45 minutes.

You might be riding with other guests.

📌If you would like to book a trip less than 3 days in advance, please contact us directly for availability +642102946123

🔆 For the afternoon starts please go here

🏔️ If you would like to ride out at a specific time - like sunrise or sunset - please enquire!

🐎Check out our other offers here.

• Beginner friendly. You will be provided with a short lesson in the beginning of the ride - if you would like.

• Advanced riders are very welcome. Please let us know your experience level when booking so we can match you with the right horse and, where possible, plan a more challenging route within the group.

  If you’re keen for a truly advanced experience, we’re happy to arrange an individual ride led by our most experienced guide. The St James Conservation Area offers endless opportunities for adventure — from river crossings to rugged alpine climbs — and we take pride in creating immersive, authentic high-country experiences for confident riders who want to go further.

• Kids over 10 years old are most welcome.

• Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Please note that even on our shorter treks, 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 rides run in all four seasons, and we are happy to ride in almost any weather — sunshine, crisp alpine air, or even a light dusting of snow can make for unforgettable adventures. That said, we understand that riding in rain or snow isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. On the morning of your ride, we will confirm the weather conditions. If you have any concerns, you’re welcome to drive up to the St James Homestead and make your own judgment. If the weather is deemed too cold, wet, or uncomfortable for riding, we will issue a full refund or offer the option to reschedule.

Even for our shorter 1.5-hour rides, it’s important to dress for the high country conditions, which can change quickly. We recommend wearing layered clothing so you can adjust to the weather, and closed-toe shoes with a small heel if possible. In wet weather, gumboots are far more practical than fabric sneakers, which quickly get soaked and uncomfortable. For health and safety reasons, guests wearing open shoes such as sandals or jandals will not be permitted to ride. With the right layers and footwear, you’ll stay comfortable and enjoy the ride no matter the season.

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). Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, along with sunscreen and insect repellent — the sun in the high country can be strong, and sandflies are part of the wilderness experience. With just these few essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy the ride in comfort.