Horse Riding

Our district has a variety of trails available to use for horse riding. Here you can learn what trails are available and what you should expect before riding said trails.

Quick links

Queenstown

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Wānaka

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Relevant links

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What to expect when you see horses on trails

  • Horses use trails for walking only (~4-6km/hr).

  • Horses can’t access cattle grates or swing bridges.

  • Horses prefer walking on the grass verge at the side of a trail, rather than on gravel chip.

  • Trees/overhanging branches are obstacles.

  • Manure is kicked to the side of the trail by the horse rider.

Passing etiquette

When passing a horse rider, please remember 'go slow, go wide, and call out from a good distance': 

  • Call out a greeting and who is passing.

  • Horse rider will acknowledge the call with a wave.

  • If you don’t receive a wave, call out again.

  • Communicate with the rider to determine the best way to pass each other safely.

  • Check with the rider if the horse is OK with dogs. If a dog is barking or looks nervous, communicate with the rider the best way to pass safely. (Exposure and repetition de-sensitises both animals).

Queenstown

We're currently undertaking safety audits on trails in Queenstown that are suitable for horse riding, and will add them here soon!

Wānaka

  • Flat easy horse riding trail that links the Hāwea Lake and Hāwea Flat areas with the Domain where the Pony Club hold their sessions.

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Relevant links

Wakatipu Riding Club Hāwea Wānaka Pony Club Riders of Central Otago NZ Bridleways