FAQs
We have covered the most frequently asked questions below.
If you would like to know anything else, please contact us here.
I have never ridden a horse before. Can I still go on a trek?
Yes you absolutely can. Our horses are very calm and beginner friendly. We will do an introduction were we show you everything you need to know for the trek and we will take care to match the horse with your ability.
I am an experienced rider, can I also trot and canter?
We always adjust our pace to the least confident rider. If you want to make sure that we will go in a faster pace, get in touch with us for information about our private treks.
What do the different experience levels mean?
Beginner: Someone who has never ridden a horse before or has only ridden a few times in a controlled environment. This also applies to nervous riders.
Intermediate: Someone who can control their horse over uneven terrain, and independently from the group and can rise to the trot.
Expert: Someone who has ridden for several years and is confident on any horse with any temperament. A person who may enjoy a forward, responsive horse, can rise to the trot and sit a canter comfortably.
What time should I arrive for my trek?
Please make sure to arrive ready for the trek at least 10 minutes before your booked time, so we can start with introductions on time.
What should I wear?
Please wear long pants and closed shoes e.g. sneakers, sport-shoes, boots.
Wear weather appropriate clothes. We also recommend bringing a thin jacket in warmer weather, as it is often more chilly and windy on the hills we are riding on. We recommend wearing sunscreen and sunglasses if it is sunny.
Do you provide helmets?
Yes, we have helmets in all sizes which are compulsory to wear for your safety.
Do you have a weight limit?
Yes, for the well being of our horses the weight limit for all of our rides is 100 kgs. You will be asked to provide us with your weight during booking. Please be honest when filling in your weight – no refunds will be given if we have to turn you away on the day of the trek because inaccurate information was provided.
Do I need to speak English?
As this is an education based adventure, at least one rider in your group must have sufficient English and be able and willing to translate all instructions and exchanges between the Guides and other members of their group
Can I take pictures during the trek?
Definitely! The scenery is amazing and well worth taking photos as we ride. We will also stop for a group picture that your guide will take for you.
Do you offer shorter rides for children?
Our 1 hour ride is ideal for small children (5 years and older). Depending in their age and ability they will be led by your guide.
Can I share a horse with my small child?
No, for safety reasons we have to insist parents and children have separate horses. Although our horses are big (we do not have ponies), they are very child and beginner friendly. For small children who cannot control a horse by themselves, the safest option is for them to be led by our guide.
Where do I find you?
We are located at 68 Kawarau Gorge Road, 9384 Cromwell. You can find a map of the exact location here.
We will open the gate for you when you arrive. In case you are more than 30 minutes early and we are not there yet, you can park next to the gate while you wait.
How and when do I pay?
At this stage we only accept cash payment or bank transfer from New Zealand bank accounts.
What is your cancellation policy?
If for any reason you find it necessary to cancel your trek, please notify us as soon as possible. We will offer a full refund or reschedule at no extra cost if you have given at least 48 hours notice and a 50% refund if you cancel between 48 and 24 hours before your trek. If you cancel later than 24 hours in advance, we will unfortunately not be able to offer you a refund as it is unlikely that we will be able to fill your spot on such short notice.
If we have to cancel due to bad weather conditions (see next question), you will receive a full refund.
What happens in the event of bad weather?
In the event of heavy rain or strong winds, we may have to cancel your trek for safety reasons. We will contact you as soon as we know of bad weather conditions through either email or the phone number you have provided in your booking.
We do endeavor to give you the best possible experience, so we will try to find the best solution for you. This might mean finding a better time on the same or a different day, or doing a shorter trek instead were we can avoid heavy winds.
If we can’t find a alternative that works for you and we have to cancel your trek, you will receive a full refund.
Is there parking on site?
Yes, there is plenty of parking on site. If the gate is open when you arrive, please park on the grass area on the rights side when you drive through the gate.