This equestrian pack-trip on New Zealand’s South Island explores a region famous for two of the countries great riches; gold and sheep. In the 1860s there was a short but furious gold rush in the mountains around Blue Lake, evidence of which can still be seen along the horseback trails. The Merino sheep tended by musters around the Ahuriri River are often said to produce the finest quality wool, and have become one of New Zealand’s biggest exports. This vacation follows old trails traditionally used by the sheep musters, and the miners of history.
With stunning views in every direction while horseback riding through mountains, forests and valleys, this trek explores the heart and history of New Zealand. Highlights include spending the night in restored historical cottages and traversing the highest stock pass in New Zealand from which, on a clear day, you can see Dunstan and Pukaki lakes, as well as all four of the tallest peaks on South Island; Aorangi, Mount Aspiring, Mount St. Bathan’s and Mount Tutoko. Guests have advised us that this horseback trail rivals Mongolia and Patagonia in its breathtaking beauty
Staying in traditional huts, or camping out beneath the stars and eating locally sourced food carried by the pack horses there is a palpable feeling of stepping back in time on this vacation. The horses have all been bred locally and are ideally suited for the rugged, tough terrain.
Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.
Review received from RP of Chattanooga on 03/04/2025
Day 1
Guests are collected from Queenstown airport and driven to St Bathans to meet the guide and wranglers. While the luggage is being transferred to the accommodation, horses are allocated, and there is a short trail for riders to get the feel for their mounts. The 2-hour ride includes a visit to the historic hotel in St Bathans, a favourite spot for photos. The rest of the day is free to explore the historic gold mining town with its restored mud-brick houses, or just relax, have a drink in the hotel, and pack the blue-bags for the trip. Suitcases will be transported to the end point of the trail for the riders. Dinner is served at a historic cottage, which is the accommodation for the evening.
Day 2
After breakfast, the adventure begins with a spectacular day criss-crossing the Dunstan River on the way to the Dunstan Downs Station. This beautiful glacial river is a popular fishing spot where one can often spot trout feeding in the pools. The trail follows in the footsteps of gold miners from the gold rush era of the 1860s. Remnants can still be seen along the mountain ranges, offering glimpses into the lives of those who came here seeking their fortunes. The majestic Old Man peak rises up, ready to be tackled tomorrow, as the group arrive at the ‘Fat Mans Hut’, the overnight stop. The original building, over 100 years old, was used by musters when tending their sheep. After dinner, enjoy the star-filled night sky. There is the option of sleeping in the cabin or in individual tents tonight (by arrangement). 6hrs riding.
Day 3
Start early on the mountain track leading up Old Man Peak, the highest stock pass in New Zealand at just under 6,000ft above sea level. The track offers spectacular views, and on a clear day one can see Dunstan and Pukaki lakes, as well as all four of the tallest peaks on South Island; Aorangi, Mount Aspiring, Mount St. Bathan’s and Mount Tutoko. The descent provides vistas across the Southern Alps, with a great patchwork of land.
Stop for lunch at Dunstan Downs cattle yard, 3,000ft up the slope, beside the Alpine Lindis pass. Here, the pack-horses are ready and waiting to join the group through the mountain passes in Dalrachney Station. The ride continues along the river and, depending on the season, through a landscape of wild lupins and roses - a unique feature of the McKenzie and Lindis passes. Accommodation for the evening is in a musterers' hut, set high on the edge of the Southern Alps at 5,000ft, overlooking the country made famous by the ‘Lord of the Rings’ films. The hut has a long drop toilet, no electricity, a log burner and limited solar lighting. Private tents available by arrangement. 8hr riding.
Day 4
A relaxed morning allows horses and riders to rest and admire the incredible mountain scenery around Lindis Ridge hut. The day begins with a one-hour walk, descending from the Lindis Ridge. Lunch is on the banks of the Lindis River, where both horses and riders can refresh themselves. The afternoon’s ride is through farmed New Zealand high country, dotted with Merino sheep, wild deer, and native falcons. For those who enjoy walking and interested in alpine plant life, this is a great time to explore on foot. Overnight at the musterers hut. Private tents available by arrangement. 4hrs riding.
Day 5
Today's ride offers outstanding scenery as the group explores the region on less-travelled paths. The horses excel, carrying riders through mountain passes that might seem daunting to some. The accommodation is in a basic musterers hut, which features a long drop toilet and no electricity. 5hrs riding.
Day 6
Today is often considered the best day of riding, traversing some of the most impressive mountains in New Zealand on horseback. After breakfast, packs are loaded, and riders head deeper into the mountains. Follow old pack trails around Mount Prospect, crossing shingle slides and snow-fed creeks. Keep an eye open for some Chamois and Himalayan Tahr scrambling up the mountain sides.
After crossing two mountain ridges, descend into a native beech forest in Timaru Creek for lunch. After lunch, continue alongside the creek in the shadow of the high rock formations the group have just conquered. The trail then leads over the Mount Martha saddle, part of the ‘Te Areroa’ trail. At the end of this incredible day’s riding, arrive at the musterers' hut situated next to a glacial river. 4hrs riding.
Day 7
Today, riders head towards the Ahuriri River, passing close to a safari park full of Red, Fallow and Wapiti deer. The terrain here is more accommodating, allowing for trots and canters between stream crossings. The area is also home to many Merino sheep, whose wool has made New Zealand famous in the textile world. Tonight's accommodation is a beautifully restored historic homestead, located deep in the heart of the Ahuriri Conservation park. Enjoy a farm-house dinner while reliving the day's adventure. 5hr riding.
Day 8
Today, riders rest and can choose their own pace. Enjoy a lovely relaxing day enveloped in the magic of the recently travelled mountains. Sleep late in soft beds and enjoy a full farmhouse brunch. There are lovely walks, great swimming holes in the river, and a catch-and-release river for fly fishing, or just curl up with a good book. For those who want a little more riding there is a 4 hour trail up Mount Gladwish. This trail offers stunning riding high into the mountains and provides riders with 360-degree views of the area.
Day 9
After breakfast transfer to Queenstown Airport, or next accommodation
Please arrive on day one in your riding clothes as the group will be heading straight out onto the trail.
With a maximum limit of only 9kg, knowing what to include in your saddle bag for a trail can be daunting. Take a look at this clip for some practical advice on packing a 'blue bag' correctly.
Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.
The horses are typical hardy New Zealand hacks bred by the hosts, all of a solid build ranging from 15.1hh to 17hh. They are forward moving, calm, sensible, gentle and yet able to dig in and get the job done on terrain that climbs to 6,000 feet above sea. There are a number of Clydesdale crosses which can accommodate heavier riders, please check for availability of these if you exceed the weight limit but are interested in this ride. Saddles are comfy stock and western saddles and all the tack is well kept and suited to the horses. The pace is mostly at the walk as the terrain is varied with obstacles such as rocks, rabbit holes, bogs rivers and shingle slides. It is steep in places, with cliff drops off the side of the trail but the horses are all honest, calm and sure-footed. They are comfortable going high into the mountains and through glacial fed rivers and streams.
Intermediate onwards. Riders must be comfortable at all paces. Riding is sometimes over steep and uneven terrain and is predominately ridden in walk, although not suitable for beginners.
Horses are selected for each rider based on experience level as well as height/weight. The minimum age for this ride is 12 years, children must be good riders and accompanied by an adult.
The weight limit for this ride is 220 lb/100 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.
Historical cottage: In St Bathans the traditional mud brick cottages have been tastefully restored to provide comfortable accommodation. Rooms are shared between 2 or 3 people with a shared bathroom, and there is a dinning/social area where you can relax in the evening.
Basic cabins: These huts have long-drop toilets and water will be provided for washing. There is solar power lighting and a limited water supply to have hot camp showers at the Boundary Hut. Beds are dormitory style in one room, or there is the option to have a 1/2 person tent.
Food on the trail will be locally sourced as much as possible, adding to the authentic feel of the trek. Meals will generally be rustic and hearty farm fare. On the last night dinner will be in a local restaurant (alcohol not included). At breakfast there are cereals, toast and preserves as well as a cooked breakfast (bacon, eggs, sausages), tea and coffee. Lunches are pack-ups of sandwiches/wraps, fresh fruit, home baked slices, sweets and nuts. Dinners are designed to enhance the visit through each high country station with Angus beef, roast merino lamb, high country salmon, Mount Harris venison. Puddings also include the fruits from central Otago. There is a complimentary glass of wine with dinner, additional drinks can be purchased before the trail and will be carried to each overnight location for you.
Please enquire if you have any dietary requirements: every effort will be made to accommodate dietary needs but please note that all the food is carried in pack boxes and the isolated location of the trails can make it difficult to source certain items.
Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.
Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip.
NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures.
When visiting New Zealand, your passport should be valid for three months from the date you intend to depart.
Visas are not usually needed to enter New Zealand as a visitor for up to 6 months, but you will need to get a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel. The NZeTA costs NZD $9 if applying via the dedicated mobile app, or NZD $12 if completed online.
You will also need to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $35 when you apply. Once issued, the NZeTA is valid for up to two years. The New Zealand immigration authorities recommend that applicants allow up to 72 hours for processing.
On arrival in New Zealand, you will also need to satisfy the Immigration Officer that you meet the criteria for visa-free entry, which includes having an onward ticket and sufficient funds to support you during your stay.
Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country.
Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/new-zealand In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/NewZealand.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/new-zealand
Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions
The seasons are sharply defined: summers are hot and low in humidity; winter mornings are often misty, the days cloudless and windless and the nights freezing. Spring warms the soil and fruit tree blossom dominates the district’s orchard areas. Temperatures range from minus 3 to 20 deg C, with 10 frosts a month. Average rainfall is 28mm a month and sunshine 206 hours.
In summer, daylight lasts as late as 10pm. Temperatures range from 10 to plus 30 deg C on several days. Rainfall averages 38mm a month and sunshine is 227 hours. Autumn is brilliant as the extensive orchards and poplar shelterbelts turn red, yellow and gold. Temperatures range from minus 3 to 24 deg C. Rainfall averages 30mm a month with 11 frosts monthly and 150 hours of sunshine.
COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.
You should always bring any regular prescription drugs you may need with you.
Research has shown that asthma sufferers may be more at risk of an attack in New Zealand and sufferers should be suitably prepared.
Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in the New Zealand and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.
There are no specific health warnings for this ride. Insect repellent is a good idea though!
In New Zealand the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.
There are some opportunities to charge devices along the trail, but spare batteries and/or a powerbank are a good idea. There is only Wi-Fi in the hotel on the last night. If using a GoPro please ensure you have the group's permission to be filmed.
Please bring a soft travel bag and please avoid hard suitcases
Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials. If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:
Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards – (some locations, mostly in the EU, can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
Riding boots designed for riding and walking
Chaps
At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best for anything, except western riding (Jeans)
Long sleeved shirts
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Water bottle
Mobile phone
Torch
Sleeping bag
Wet wipes
Portable/solar charger
This is a 9 day/8 night programme, with 8 days riding available on set dates.
2025: 14 - 22 March; 7 - 15 Dec
2026: 23 - 21 March
Single rooms are not available every night so guests need to be willing to share. Single tents are available at no additional cost. Single rooms in hotels may be arranged subject to availability, please enquire.
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | £ | |
| 2025 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 3,065 |
| 2026 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 3,555 |
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | € | |
| 2025 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 3,619 |
| 2026 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 4,199 |
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | US $ | |
| 2025 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 4,299 |
| 2026 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 4,985 |
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | SEK | |
| 2025 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 40,645 |
| 2026 | 9d/8n | 8 | per person sharing | 47,139 |
Kiwi Tracks: New Zealand Journey by Andrew Stevenson
For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com Also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com
Red, Fallow and Wapiti deer, Merino sheep, Chamois (an agile goat/antelope with short hooked horns) and Himalayan Tahr (is associated with wild goats from the Himalayas in southern Tibet)
New Zealand has very strict bio-security regulations. It is illegal to import most food-stuffs (meat and meat products, honey, fruit, dairy produce) and strict penalties are handed out to those breaking these rules. Take care when importing wood products, golf clubs, footwear, tents, fishing equipment and items made from animal skin.
New Zealand is a fertile and mountainous group of islands in the south-west Pacific Ocean. It is made up of two main islands (the North Island and South Island) and a number of smaller islands.
New Zealand's first settlers were the Maori, whose Polynesian ancestors probably landed on what they called Aotearoa ('Land of the Long White cloud') during the 10th century AD, making New Zealand the last major habitable land mass to be settled by mankind. European settlers first came across New Zealand in 1642 when the Dutch explorer, Abel Tasman, spotted it in the course of his search for Antarctica. He named the South Island 'Nieuw Zeeland' after the Dutch province. James Cook sighted the North Island in 1769 and returned with various charting and scientific expeditions a number of times over the next few years. His enthusiastic reports encouraged a wave of European settlers who came across from Australia, and whalers who came from the UK, the USA and France. They gradually displaced Maori from their lands.
New Zealand is a country of rare seismic beauty: glacial mountains, fast-flowing rivers, deep, clear lakes, hissing geysers and boiling mud. There are also abundant native forests and long, deserted beaches. Because of its isolated geographical location, New Zealand is home to many unique species of flora and fauna, including the kiwi, kakapo and weka (all flightless birds).
New Zealand is twelve hours ahead GMT and they use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram.
The international dialling code is +64.
