☎︎ 027 34 500 34
Good Old Fashioned New Zealand Hospitality
Small Groups
Expect to be in a small group with mostly four to six riders. Our current maximum group size is ten. You don't need a buddy to book.
Tailored
We will ask you a lot of questions about you and any other riders in your group to make sure we put you on the right trek and the right horse.
For the Beginner
Yes, we've got chilled, low energy horses for the beginner. We lead kids or nervous adults from the ground.
For the Experienced
Our forward horses for the experienced riders love to be taken out for a spin. You will be allowed to trott or canter if our guides deem its safe.
Fairly Priced
Not everyone can have a horse in their backyard. We like to share ours with you. We endeavour to keep our prices fair and in reach so you can keep coming back for your horse fix.
OUR HORSE TREKS
“The best horse riding experience ever! Steve is an absolute legend and made sure we were comfortable and had a great time. Excellent for beginners and the experienced as well. I've never ridden a horse before but i will definitely be returning!
— Lisa
Absolutely amazing. I was with a group for my hens due. So professional and matched us wonderfully to the horses ❤ will definitely be back”
— Shannon
“The farm is in a beautiful place. You get there and you feel like you are on top of the world. You are greeted by the loveliest horses and tour guides that make you feel welcome instantly. I loved cantering up hills and the little exploration down to the creek. The horses look after you and teach you to trust them. It was a great ride, I want to go back already!.”
— Katre
THE DAYS YOU MIGHT CATCH US OUT RIDING
Our operating days vary throughout the year. We’re a small, family-run business, so everything is arranged directly with us. Please check the indicators below, then contact us to confirm whether we can accommodate you or your group.
| Mon–Wed ❌ Closed |
| Thu–Sat 🟢 Usually operating |
| Sun ⚠️ Occasional/by request |
Known closures in 2026
(Term 1)
The following dates we are not operating:
❌ January 2026 - what's left of it
❌ Friday, 6 February (Waitangi Day)
❌ Saturday, 7 February
❌ Saturday and Sunday, 14-15 February
❌ Easter Weekend, April 3-6
*** All treks are by enquiry only ***
Whether we can accommodate a booking depends on several factors including group size, matching riders to suitable horses, participant age and experience, staffing, and conditions on the day. Because we work with live animals, we don't offer instant bookings and confirm availability personally to make sure the experience is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Check if you are a good fit - Participants requirements
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Riders must be 7 years or older
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Weigh less than 110kg AND have a BMI of 31 or under
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No medical conditions that prevent safe riding
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Groups are limited to 8 riders per trek and/or 2 children under 12 years old.
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Children under 12 must be accompanied by a riding adult
*** All treks are by enquiry only ***
READY TO GIVE IT A GO?
To check availability, please include the following details when you get in touch:
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Your name / name of main organiser
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Mobile phone number we can reach you with on the day in case of bad weather
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How long do you want to ride for - 1hr, 1.5hrs, 2hrs?
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What dates do you prefer, for example weekday/weekend or a specific day?
For each rider:
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Name, age, weight, height and riding experience - the more details you give us the easier it is for us to match you to the right horse
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Anything else that's worth mentioning such as "scared of horses due to childhood accident"/ "interested in private trek" / "rode with you last year"...
You are welcome to use the copy and paste template below for your email or text message
Organiser:
Mobile:
Trek Length:
Preferred Days:
Message:
Rider #1
Name: / yrs/ kg/ cm
Experience:
Rider #2
Name: / yrs/ kg/ cm
Experience:
Rider #3
Name: / yrs/ kg/ cm
Experience:
Rider #4
Name: / yrs/ kg/ cm
Experience:
Questions We Get Asked a Lot
I have never been on a horse before. Is this for me?
If you are fit and healthy and want to give something new a try, you are sure to have a good time! We have a lot of first time riders coming our way, discovering their love for horses with us. After a short introduction and safety briefing you will know the basics on how to safely control your horse. Kids under 12 years or the nervous adult can expect to be lead from the ground.
I'm an experienced rider. Is this for me?
Absolutely. The nose to tail style riding might be the safest bet for the beginner but as an experienced rider you want to move more freely. Our experienced rides will allow trotting and cantering over various and challenging terrain and are guaranteed to exhilarate. However, safety is our top priority and the faster horse paces are always at the discretion of the guide. If you book in with your novice friends, the trek will be at their pace.
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What happens if it rains?
If the weather or underfoot conditions are unsuitable for riding, we will postpone/ cancel the trek. We will call or text you, normally on the morning of the day. Any paid monies will be reimbursed in full.
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What about age and weight limits?
The minimum age is seven. Riders 12 years or younger must be accompanied by a riding adult. Weight limits vary for each horse with our maximum weight at 110kg, however, we have a BMI restriction of 31 or under in place for beginner and intermediate riders. This is part of our safety policy and taken seriously. Please be honest with your numbers to avoid disappointment on the day.
What do I need to bring or wear?
Closed in, sturdy shoes are a must; comfy, full length pants are recommended. Leggings or track pants have proven to be a good choice. We will provide you with a helmet that meets the latest safety standards.
During the colder months you want to pack an extra layer as it is a few degrees colder up here than in town. Ladies booked in for an intermediate or experienced ride, remember that sports bra.
Will I be able to take photos?
Yes, you’re welcome to take photos, but we don’t generally recommend it, especially for beginners. Riding requires your attention, and horses respond best when riders are focused. You’ll often have a better experience without your phone. There is usually time to take photos before and after the ride, off the horse. Guides may take photos when appropriate, but this isn’t guaranteed.
Something else is bugging you? Give us a call: 027 34 500 34
GETTING THERE
Huntaway Farms is located in the beautiful Bay of Plenty, half way between Tauranga and Rotorua. Turn off SH36 at the TECT Park and continue on Whataroa Road for another 8km until you reach the farm gate (784 Whataroa Road). Google Maps knows where we are and will guide you to us correctly, just click on "Directions" below.