Ride Through the River Valley: An Immersion in Māori Land and Landscape
There is SO much goodness packed into this ride in the North Island of New Zealand. A point-to-point ride, it starts and ends at the family home of your guides, Nicola Megaw and her daughter Janey Harrison. River Valley Lodge is a spectacular, fifth generation family-owned lodge that sits poised on the wild Rangitikei River.
Exclusive to Globetrotting
Rides hand crafted at GT HQ, available only to Globetrotters.
Trip Highlights
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Scaling windswept hilltops for breathtaking views of the North Island’s volcanic high country
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Spending time with the local Māori people, absorbing their vibrant culture
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Feasting on locally grown, hunted and gathered, skillfully prepared produce
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Strengthening the bond between you and your horse as you feed, groom and saddle them each day
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Feeling the wind on your cheeks as you canter wild and free across the vast highlands
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Sleeping at a local Māori marae – an experience not to be missed
• 8 days, 7 nightsRiding levelIntermediate • Strong Intermediate • Advanced On the move You ride to a new destination every day or two.
Details
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Riding levels
Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. All riders MUST be confident riding outside an arena at all paces over uneven ground.
*Please keep in mind the longer itinerary involves 8 days in the saddle, so suitable saddle fitness is a MUST.Not sure what your riding ability is? See the definitions below.
- Type of tack
Both Australian stock saddles and Western tack are used.
*All horses are ridden barefoot and bitless. - Horse breed
A mix of Kaimanawa (NZ wild horse) and NZ Station Bred, which is a cross of Clydesdale, Standardbred, Quarter Horse, Thoroughbred and Arabian. There are also a few Tennessee Walking Horses and American Saddlebreds in the herd.
- Accommodation
Accommodation varies throughout the ride, with twin-share ensuite rooms at River Valley Lodge and Tarata Lodge, two nights of comfortable glamping in bell tents with basic facilities, and one night at a traditional Māori Marae in a communal setting.
- Pace
The pace varies from a walk right through to a canter when the terrain allows.
- Weight limit
A maximum of 95kg / 210lbs.
It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
- Group size
A minimum of 6 and a maximum of 8 guests.
- Minimum age
13 years of age
- Time in Saddle
On average, 4 to 6 hours daily. Please note, this is dependent on the pace of your group, so on some days it could take a little longer to reach your campsite.
- When to go
November through to March.
- Languages
English
What’s included (and what’s not)
Included
- Twin share accommodation (unless a single supplement has been purchased)
- Transfers to and from Taupo on the first and last days of the ride
- All riding activities outlined in the itinerary
- Meals (from dinner on day 1 through to lunch on the final day)
- White water rafting on the final day (optional)
Excluded
- International and regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Accommodation in Taupo the night before & after the ride
- Alcohol (this can be purchased on-site)
Departure dates and prices
Instalment plans available
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Per person
2026
5-day itinerary
November 19 to 23, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
8-day itinerary
December 2 to 9, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
5-day itinerary
December 17 to 21, 2026
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2027
5-day itinerary
January 7 to 11, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
8-day itinerary
January 20 to 27, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
8-day itinerary
February 10 to 17, 2027
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5-day itinerary
February 25 to March 1, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
8-day itinerary
March 10 to 17, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
5-day itinerary
April 1 to 5, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
We'll email you — you'll be among the first to hear when new departure dates are released.
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of $184 NZD
- All bookings are charged in the local currency of the ride destination.
- Accepted payment method is by credit or debit card only.
Cancellation policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation fees apply based on how close your departure date is, and deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your booking. Read our full cancellation policy.
International fees
If you're paying in a currency different from your own, your bank may charge a conversion or international transaction fee.
Itinerary
Please note, these are suggested itineraries only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.
- 8-day itinerary
- 5-day itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival
Ground work & 2 hour rideHooray! Your adventure in New Zealand is about to begin! This morning you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Taupo between 8 – 8.30am. The drive to River Valley Lodge takes in the unique Central Plateau of the North Island and you’ll drive past three active volcanoes while travelling down the spectacular Desert Road. There will be a stop on the way to purchase some lunch and any last-minute supplies.
Your host, Nicola, will greet you at the Lodge where you’ll meet your guides, who will give you a briefing on the days ahead. Today is about getting to know your horse, building a connection, feeling comfortable with one another and understanding the principles of riding your horse in a rope halter. To begin with, once you’ve been paired with your horse, you’ll spend some time working together on the ground; then you’ll ride out over River Valley and the neighbouring farm, Mangatoa. After a beautiful afternoon of riding, you’ll feel connected and confident in the saddle.
In the evening, you’ll enjoy a sumptuous dinner of home-grown produce amidst the relaxed atmosphere of River Valley Lodge and get to know your guides and fellow guests. By now your comfortable, cosy bed will be calling – make sure you get plenty of beauty sleep tonight, globetrotters!
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Day 2: Ohinewairua Station
5 to 6 hours in the saddleAfter packing a bag with everything you’ll need for the next three nights, you’ll fill up on a hearty breakfast at the Lodge and head out to catch, groom, saddle and feed the horses. This hands-on time strengthens your relationship with your horse and will form part of each day (don’t worry, there’s always help on hand should you need it). Mounting up for a full day’s ride, you will cross the big hills, open country and native bush of four different properties: the aptly named Big Hill Station, Mangaota, Makokomiko, and Hiwinui (which means ‘big ridge’ in Maori).
These stations have been opened up just for you – it’s a real privilege to explore them. There will be plenty of trots and canters, challenging slopes, and soul-stirring views across the undulating back country to the Kaimanawa and Ruahine Ranges and, on a clear day, the North Island’s volcanoes. Lunch will be packed in your saddlebags and enjoyed in a shady spot en route.
Your destination is Ohinewairua Station which, like River Valley, sits on the banks of the Rangitikei River. While half the group settles into Otupae River Cottage, the other half will make themselves at home in the spacious ‘glamping’ teepees erected just outside. There’s time for a swim in the river while your fabulous chef Miranda prepares the evening meal, to be enjoyed on the verandah while the sun sets over the hills.
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Day 3: Cottrell's
5 to 6 hours in the saddleGetting into the morning rhythm, you’ll pack your lunch, enjoy a filling breakfast, then take a short drive to meet the horses. Today’s ride traverses the magnificent, grandiose hills of Ohinewairua Station, with your guides selecting the best route for the season, weather and ground conditions of your specific departure. Another saddlebag-packed lunch will be enjoyed on the banks of the Rangitikei while the horses graze nearby.
Finally, you’ll pull up at Cottrell’s, a beautifully renovated shearers quarters located on a smaller, fifth-generation family farm. Those who glamped last night will sleep in the shearers quarters, and vice versa. After an evening dip in the river, you’ll get to know your lovely hosts, Dan and Jacqui, and Dan’s parents Mark and Elizabeth, and hear their stories of life on the land over a hearty dinner.
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Day 4: Moawhango Marae
2 to 4 hours in the saddleToday gets off to a relaxed start, with an unhurried breakfast overlooking the surrounding hills. When everyone is ready, you’ll groom and saddle your horse for a picturesque journey through more astounding back country, crossing seven private properties before reaching Moawhango Marae in the early afternoon. Moawhango (which means ‘raucous moa bird’ – a now-extinct species) is a small settlement with a rich history.
Here you will meet some of the friendly locals from both European and Māori cultures, who will share their love of the land and their ancestral stories with you. Tonight, you’ll be given privilege of staying on the community’s Marae, or meeting ground. The Marae is the focal point of Māori communities throughout New Zealand, who see it as tūrangawaewae – their place to stand and belong.
As a group, you will be welcomed onto the Marae and experience the warm hospitality of the Māori people as you’re treated to a delicious welcome meal prepared especially for you, then bed down in the ancestral hall, the beating heart of the community.
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Day 5: Pukeokahu
4 to 5 hours in the saddleAfter breakfast at the Marae, courtesy of the beautiful Moawhango community, you will begin the journey back to River Valley, following an entirely new trail. You’ll ride through three private properties, each hilltop bringing Pukeokahu (‘hill of the hawk’) a little closer. In the far distance, you will also see Aorangi (the local Maunga, which is Māori for mountain). Having spent a night at the marae, you’ll understand more of the Maunga’s history and significance.
Arriving at River Valley in the afternoon, there’s plenty of time to go for a swim, soak in the hot tub, enjoy the sauna, or just sit back and watch the sunlight dance on the river. Miranda will prepare another delectable dinner to welcome you home, then you’ll sleep beneath Pukeokahu and Aorangi, back in your cosy room at the Lodge.
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Day 6: Rangitikei River Gorge
4 to 5 hours in the saddleAs usual, the day will begin with a delicious breakfast and time spent bonding with your trusty trail horse as you prepare for the ride ahead. You’re leaving River Valley once more today, riding along country roads and through the high country farmland of Ngatarua Station, where there will be ample opportunities to pick up the pace and feel the wind in your hair. Then, after a picnic lunch, you’ll descend into the beautiful Rangitikei River Gorge. This is a very special area for your guides, who grew up here and will no doubt have more than a few tales to tell.
Your nimble horse will cross the river multiple times en route to your destination, Tarata Lodge, a spectacular property owned by Steve and Trudi Maddock. The lodge is based high on the cliffs of the Rangitkei River and boasts stunning views into the river canyon. While Miranda cooks dinner, you’ll soak up the views from the hot tub and whet your appetite with a cheese platter and drinks on the deck as the light fades softly over the river.
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Day 7: Ruahine Ranges
5 to 6 hours in the saddleThis morning you’ll have breakfast at Tarata Lodge before riding down into the spectacular river gorge. Heading upstream, you’ll ride through the river and up over several prominent hills, including Pukeokahu itself (weather permitting), pausing to take in the distant splendour of the Ruahine Ranges on the ascent. Local Māori are believed to have roamed Pukeokahu’s sacred slopes for at least 400 years. On a clear day, the hilltop offers views of all three of the North Island’s volcanoes!
You will arrive back at River Valley in the early afternoon, when tonight’s Hāngi will be put in the ground to cook slowly for the final feast. You can spend the rest of the day as you please. Tonight you’ll celebrate in true kiwi fashion, with laughter, stories, and an unbelievably delicious Hāngi!
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Day 8: Departure after lunch
2 hours in the saddle (optional)It’s your choice how you spend this last day. We recommend one of River Valley’s world-renowned rafting trips with the fun-loving, knowledgeable guides. You could also take the e-bikes for a spin, head out for one last ride with Nicola, or simply soak up the tranquillity by the river.
At 2pm, after a picnic lunch, you’ll say farewell to the River Valley team and take a shuttle back to your accommodation in Taupo. The trip takes roughly two hours. You can depart for your onward travels anytime the following day.
Transfer information
Transfers to and from Taupo are included in the ride price. To avoid travel delays, we ask that all guests arrive and stay in Taupo (at your own expense) the day before the ride begins, so you’re ready to be collected from your accommodation between 8am and 8.30am on day one. And please also book another night’s accommodation in Taupo on the final day of your ride, so the group isn’t rushed getting back into town. You can fly home the following day.
Please note
If you’re flying into Auckland International Airport, give yourself a minimum three-hour buffer to clear customs (especially with horse riding equipment – helmets, chaps, boots) before your regional flight directly into Taupo.
Accommodation
The accommodation varies throughout the ride. While staying at River Valley Lodge (nights 1, 2, 5 and 7), you’ll enjoy comfortable twin share rooms with ensuites. You’ll spend two nights ‘glamping’ (bell dome tents, camp stretcher and all bedding provided) with access to basic shower and toilet facilities. You’ll also spend one night at a traditional Maori Marae (communal space, no single room available) and one night at Tarata Lodge with comfortable twin share rooms.
Please be advised on some nights, guests will be split between comfortable rooms and glamping tents depending on the location. All guests will have the opportunity to be in a glamping tent at some stage throughout the ride, but not always on the same night as others.
Cottrell’s shearers quarters
Glamping tents
Glamping tent
Food
Your hosts pride themselves on the use of local ingredients, from farm-raised meats to hunted and gathered bush foods to fresh-from-the-garden veggies. You’ll savour these regional delights cooked to perfection in hearty continental and cooked breakfasts, light picnic lunches and home-cooked, family-style dinners. The food on this ride will definitely see you loosening your belt buckle, not tightening it!
Reviews
Myfanwyn C
Kim B
Lila W
Natalia T
Erika A
Kathi F
Neville R
Scott S
Kim B
Kathy C
Danielle W
Joanna W
Maelee D
Rachel A
Rachel B
Kristin B
Jill G
Sonya P
Donna G
‘A bloody fantastic experience on the River Valley Ride! I would highly recommend it to anyone considering it. I had a great time.’
Fiona A
Rachel M
Karen C
Jo F
Amy B
Joanne S
Lynnere B
Michelle V
Robyn S
Shari R
Gillian M
Robyn S
Sharon J
Tanya G
Carolyn R
Michelle K
Heidi C
Michelle L
Anthony T
Patricia H
Mieke A
Helen D
Wendy B
42 reviews
Myfanwyn C
This ride was so amazing, three days after we finished I booked to go again in 2027.
A very well organised holiday with wonderful hosts and a great way to make new friends. I learnt a lot about myself and the horses. 8 days sounds a lot of time in the saddle, but by day 6 you begin to feel sad cos there is only 2 days left. 😢
I did the White Water Rafting on the last day , at 64 yrs and not the oldest, it was so much fun and so beautiful drifting between Nature’s natural wonders.
Kim B
‘Back for my second visit to The River Ride and, honestly, it somehow topped the first! Five epic days of riding, adventure, and great company. The horses were beautiful, Clifford was my favourite, of course. The riding was fabulous, with long canters up tracks offering stunning vistas. Huge thanks to Miranda, an absolute legend, for catering so wonderfully to all our quirky dietary requirements. The people and guides were amazing and made every ride unforgettable. The race up the airstrip was, hands down, the most exhilarating experience and so much fun. We finished on an absolute high, swapping horsepower for paddle power with a Grade 5 rapids rafting tour, exhilarating, unforgettable, and absolutely brilliant. Grateful for every moment, and already dreaming of the next adventure!’
Lila W
‘The River Valley Ride was an absolutely incredible experience. We rode through farmland and forests, taking in the breathtaking views and doing endless canters and gallops. We ate organic and healthy food from their garden (as well as lots of Whittaker’s chocolate). I built such a great bond with my horse, Rio, within those few days, and I met some amazing people on the ride. Our guides, Emily and Nicola, were such lovely, welcoming people, and they took excellent care of both us and their horses. The horses were all barefoot and bitless, and they were so well trained. Nicola did such an amazing job choosing which horse was best for me, as I love a challenge and a horse with a comfortable seat (which my horse definitely was—so comfortable!). Everything about this ride was amazing, and everyone was such a joy to be around. I definitely recommend this ride!’
Natalia T
‘This riding trip was incredibly special to me, taking almost five years to materialise. It was my birthday present to myself. Everything exceeded my expectations and more. The food was superb and truly wholesome, and the accommodation was excellent. I was matched with Ranger, who was absolutely gorgeous and very similar to a gelding I ride at home. He was so attentive and generous; I absolutely loved him. He was forward when needed yet calm at the same time. It was marvellous to ride bitless and barefoot horses. I would have loved to learn more about horsemanship. I would describe this as a spiritual and meditative experience, being one with my riding partner.’
Erika A
‘If you’re on the fence about booking the River Valley Ride, jump off the fence and book your saddle seat ASAP! I’ve done four Globetrotting rides, and this one now tops the chart as my favourite. From incredible hosts, well-trained and steady horses, epic scenery, and mouthwatering food, this ride is not one to miss. Every day, we rode the rolling, sheep-dotted hills and trotted and cantered to our heart’s content. We raced up airstrips and splashed across rivers, admiring the dramatic rainbow cliffs and waterfalls. I rode Clifford, who was the perfect horse for me; he was alert, steady, responsive, had plenty of up and go, and best of all, he took care of me. We built a connection and trust. Eight days is the perfect length for this ride, and the rafting on the final day was a blast. It was very special to stay at the Marae and be spoiled by the lovely Māori ladies with their generous feast. 100/10, would come again!’
Kathi F
‘Just wow! A big shout out to our intrepid, patient, and fun, fun, fun guides – and the amazing support crew. These people made the ride really special, but the true heroes were the incredible horses! They confidently carried us up and down for 7 days without faltering. I rode Ranger, who was fabulous in every way—not only does he look like a supermodel, but he was steady, responsive, fast when we needed to be, and very sweet. The scenery somehow got more and more spectacular day after day. The food was some of the best I’ve ever eaten, mostly grown in the impressive garden at the lodge. The accommodation was all great and comfortable, and each location was different. Spending time on the Marae was special, and the welcoming ceremony saw us all get a bit emotional. There was so much to learn from our wonderful hosts – a real highlight for me. I highly recommend taking the plunge on this ride – swim in the river when you get the opportunity, and do the rafting! This ride exceeded all my expectations, and I’d love to get back there again someday. If you’re on the fence, get off it and just go!’
Neville R
‘The whole experience was fantastic; it couldn’t have been better! I rode Elvis; he was a fantastic horse, and I enjoyed every second of the ride. Nicola and Emily, our guides, were amazing in terms of their level of service, knowledge of the environment, and hospitality.’
Scott S
‘I think it is rare to come away from a trip and think that the experience was better than advertised but that is exactly how I felt at the end of the 8-day River Valley Ride. The horses are fit, well-trained and truly fun to ride. Our guides, Nicola and Emily made certain that we had the complete experience and never missed an opportunity for a canter or a swim with the horses. The food was excellent, and each place we stayed along the way was very comfortable and unique in its own way. Our time at the River Valley Lodge was enhanced by the staff who went out of their way to make our trip special. If someone wants a great riding experience in one of the most beautiful spots in the world then sign up for the River Valley Ride.’
Kim B
‘The River Valley Ride is spectacular! It packed a lot into 5 incredible days in the saddle, over varied terrain, spent with our beautiful, naturally trained horses. Walking and galloping up hills and over countryside that had spectacular scenery everywhere you look—photos just cannot do justice! Skilfully guided by Nicola, Emily, and the team, who all went above and beyond to make sure we had the best time every day! Be it on the horse, in the lodge serving us drinks, or keeping us entertained at breakfast and in the evenings, the staff are super friendly and accommodating to our every need. The food! OMG, the food… incredible meals of fresh food and produce, straight from the garden and farm to plate. Chef Miranda is a legend at turning everything into a sumptuous masterpiece! If you have not done this ride yet, put it at the top of your list; it’s a must-do! It’s a given that I’ll be back!’
Kathy C
‘The River Valley ride is an incredible experience that really can’t be topped: beautiful horses, scenery, and experiences with the nicest people. I loved our room; the whole lodge was beautiful and relaxing. The people couldn’t have been nicer or more accommodating. Chef Miranda was an outstanding cook, and the meals were delicious and healthy. The riding was incredible, and the scenery was out of this world. Our guides Nicola, Emily, and Hazel were just the best. A special shout-out to Emily, who did everything she could to make me comfortable and help me master bitless riding. Riding to the Maori village and spending the night was incredible.’
Danielle W
‘It was a beautiful place! The location on the river made for a stunning background to enjoy after the long rides. The food was wonderful! There was so much attention to making sure we were well looked after with plenty of food, before, after and during the rides. I rode Dakota. He was a forward-moving, very well-mannered horse. I stayed out of his way, and he took care of me up and down some steep hills. He was also very fun! Always seemed ready for a good gallop, which I loved! Nicola and Emily were amazing guides and so passionate about the horses and making sure everyone was comfortable and enjoyed the rides. Riding to the Marae and staying there the night was an amazing and unique experience I will never forget.’
Joanna W
‘The River Valley Ride is the best ride I have ever done! I felt safe and supported; the horses were happy and healthy, and the countryside was sublime! OMG – the food was so fresh, and there was so much of it. There were so many options to choose from and some fantastic desserts as well. Straight from the veggie patch to the plate! The guides had a very high level of horsemanship and knowledge of the area; you could always approach them with questions, and nothing ever seemed to be too much for them. The reason I chose this ride was because of the length. With eight days in the saddle, you get to bond more with your horse and get into a daily rhythm. Towards the end of the ride, you are more aware of your surroundings. Riding through the rivers was just wonderful; my horse, Alfie, was brave and calm, and there was a real sense of magic and peace with horses and humans. Just WOW!’
Maelee D
‘The River Valley Ride was everything we wanted in a ride. From beautiful mountaintop views of the NZ countryside to cantering on a loose rein through fields of sheep and cows, to forging across rivers, every day was different in the best way. I was a little nervous about the 8-day itinerary going in; however, having experienced it, I couldn’t imagine it being any shorter. The full 8 days allowed me to really bond with my horse and see so many different terrains. The horses were all so well-trained and responsive, riding barefoot and in a simple rope halter. Our guides did a fantastic job matching pairs; everyone loved their horse! All of the accommodations were lovely in their own way, but my favourite night by far was our night glamping under the beautiful NZ stars. I cannot recommend this ride enough!’
Rachel A
‘The Best Week of My Life! I can’t recommend this trek highly enough. The horses were fabulous and perfectly matched to each rider. We had a great group of people on the trek, with just the right numbers to create a lovely atmosphere! The folks running the trek at River Valley were wonderful—such good people. Stunning scenery awaited us around every corner, and the delicious, healthy farm-to-table food was a real treat. There were good vibes all around! Even when it got a bit chilly, we felt warm and snuggly with hot water bottles and lovely bedding. The logistics were handled in a fabulous and easy way. The whole experience was utter MAGIC! While there are other countries and treks to explore, I would absolutely love to do this trek again; it was that good!’
Rachel B
‘The River Valley Ride is absolutely incredible! I started out super nervous, and in the fog, we cantered up a hill to a view overlooking miles of bucolic hills. In that moment, from the back of a horse, I knew this was where I was meant to be. We spent our days riding high and low; we crossed rivers and learned about the unique Māori culture along the way, and we made some incredible friends. On our last day, we climbed and climbed on horseback to a view of the whole area, with the horses grazing around us for our picnic lunch. That moment I will cherish forever! I rode Dakota, who was amazing—a horse I needed to grow and gain trust with while also having fun and pushing my limits. I loved how excited he got when it was time to go. Eight days were just right for this itinerary. I’m so happy I was able to take this trip; I needed that time to reconnect with who I am!’
Kristin B
‘New Zealand is a long way to travel from most other places in the world, so it was great to be able to find an eight-day ride. It was the highlight of my NZ adventure. The other benefit of eight days is having enough time to really bond with your horse, the land, your hosts and fellow riders. The terrain we trekked was breathtakingly spectacular, and our guide, Nicola, made sure that we were comfortable handling her bitless horses so that we could enjoy riding at all paces, including a few exhilarating races. And then there was that incredible river rafting fínale! I’m 74 and I plan to drive myself on to experience unforgettably beautiful adventures like these until my wheels fall off!’
Jill G
‘The 8-day ride at River Valley was fabulous! The rolling hills, the sheep, the cattle, and the deer created a stunning backdrop. The stamina of the horses was just gobsmacking; they gave it their all. For me, it wasn’t just about wanting to gallop up hills; it was the sheer pleasure of riding in that part of NZ. When we did the river crossing, it rained, but so what? It was an adventure! Once again, the horses came through, and especially Clifford – he was such a trooper.’
Sonya P
‘I was very happy with the standard of accommodation, which was set in stunning locations that truly added to an already incredible experience. All our meals were fantastic — most of them specially prepared for us using home-grown produce. I rode Alfie, who was matched perfectly to me. As an intermediate rider, I had requested a ‘steady horse’, and Alfie was exactly that—calm, very responsive, and kind-natured. I absolutely loved getting to know this wonderful horse. It was a privilege to ride with our guides, who introduced us to new techniques for bitless riding. They were incredibly patient and helpful throughout the journey, offering gentle corrections when needed, which really boosted my confidence. They were also extremely knowledgeable about the local farmland, history, and terrain, making me feel safe, inspired, and entertained throughout. One of my favourite experiences was embracing Māori culture—learning a song about unity, love, and respect and, under Nicolas’s leadership, performing it during a pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony) at the Marae to an elder on sacred land. This was my second Globetrotting adventure, and I’m keeping my bags packed and ready for the next!’
Donna G
‘A bloody fantastic experience on the River Valley Ride! I would highly recommend it to anyone considering it. I had a great time.’
Fiona A
‘My first experience with Globetrotting went far beyond my expectations. The riding trails were fantastic, the guides knowledgeable and friendly, and the people I met along the way made it one of the best holidays I have ever had. We were served delicious fresh food every meal, the staff were always helpful and accommodating, and the rooms and beds were comfortable. I particularly enjoyed swimming in the rivers after a long day in the saddle, and even had a massage! I am already looking forward to booking another Globetrotting adventure.’
What's my riding level?
Not sure what your riding level is? Watch our videos to see all our levels.
Beginner
Reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
Intermediate
Confident and in control riding at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly. Comfortable and competent using aids {the language of your leg, seat and hands} to communicate with your horse.
Strong Intermediate
An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly outside of an arena and is fit enough to ride for at least six hours per day. Strong intermediate riders are comfortable and competent in all three gaits; able to post or sit to the trot; have an independent seat while cantering (don’t hold onto the saddle); and can pick up the correct canter lead. They can also navigate more complex terrain, including asking a horse to sidestep and jump over a small obstacle.
Advanced
A frequent rider who is very fit, comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day, and has an independent seat and soft hands. Advanced riders are confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain. They can ride over small jumps and know the techniques used to collect a horse
Not sure? Contact our team to help you figure out your riding ability.
Stories from the saddle
Meet our Guides: Nicola and Janey
The River Valley Ride is an eight-day journey across the hills and glens of New Zealand’s North Island. Leading this adventure are Nicola Megaw and Janey Harrison, a mother and daughter dream team with a lifelong passion for their homeland, their horses and sharing this beauty with others. Nicola kindly took the time to tell…
A Day Spent in Taupo
Booked a saddle seat on our epic River Valley Ride? Great choice, globetrotter – you’re in for a treat! You’ll need to book accommodation in Taupo for both the night before and the night after your horse riding holiday so that there’s no stress about getting to or from the airport in time. Bearing that…
Globetrotting Guest Horse: Miss T
Miss T loves nothing more than giving joyrides around her home turf on The River Valley Ride. Owner and guide, Nicola, tells us that this doe-eyed beauty was once an ugly duckling! Read on to learn about Miss T’s lucky break, and what makes her such a star team member. Horse’s name: Miss T Breed:…
