CROSSING THE MAIN DIVIDE

9 Days | NZ$6,700 | Queenstown, New Zealand

SOUTHERN ALPS HIGH COUNTRY EXPEDITION

OVERVIEW

On this once-in-a-lifetime horseback adventure, you will be able to enjoy the most beautiful sights of the high country riding purposefully bred horses. From the saddle, you will discover lakes and mountains and explore unspoiled corners of New Zealand.

This is a long and adventurous trail ride, only available to intrepid riders looking for a sense of escape and to get off the beaten track.

This was how it was done in the old 'muster days', when there were no helicopters and 4X4's like there are to help the land owners nowadays. Using pack horses is a dying art and one which is a special experience

LET’S RIDE

HIGHLIGHTS

Remote riding in the Southern Alps
Completely self-supported with pack horses
Forward, fit, horses. Most are New Zealand standardbreds (racing horses) crossed with shires
Breathtaking mountain ridge-line riding
River crossings
Follow the Te Araroa Trail in parts, New Zealand’s national through-hike
Access private mountain huts, basic but magical.
Stay at the historic Vulcan Hotel
Finish at stunning Ahuriri Lodge with stunning mountain views

Overview

RIDE GUIDE

9 Days / 8 Days Riding

Cost: From NZ$6,700

Operator: Adventure Horse Trekking NZ

Where: Queenstown, New Zealand

When: December to March

Riding level: Experienced, technical, steep terrain.

Rider Fitness: Riders dismount and lead their horses on the downhills which can sometimes be for up to one hour (totalling around 2-3 hours of walking on foot per day).

Weight limit: Maximum of 90kg / 198lbs for men and 80 for women.

Time in the saddle: 3.5 to 8 hours a day

HORSES

There are 60 horses on the farm with 40 available for riding. Both the riding horses and pack horses are a delightful mix of shire X standardbred, they are sure-footed having been bred in the hills and are very comfortable to ride.

The horses range between 14.2hh and 18hh. The tack used on this ride is Australian stock saddles (made in New Zealand) and single-rein bridles. The riding is western style.

The pace of the ride is taken at a walk due to the rough terrain and the pack horses which accompany the ride, carrying all the food and equipment.

ACCOMMODATION

The first night is spent at the iconic Vulcan Hotel in St Bathans, an historic gold mining town.

The following five nights are spent in huts of various states. Some have capacity for everyone to sleep inside in bunk beds, dorm style, with a fireplace and a kitchen. Some are very rustic. None have a shower and all have a long drop loo nearby. There is always a stream nearby or access to a water tank for washing.

Sometimes there will not be space for everyone in the hut in which case some riders will share tents. Mats are provided.

The final nights are at the Ahuriri River Lodge, the old station homestead in the Ahuriri Valley. There are hot showers, twin share rooms, a beautiful dining room for your final meal and a cosy snug and log fire to enjoy your final evening in.

GET IN TOUCH

APPLY NOW

HOW TO BOOK

ENQUIRY

WHAT'S INCLUDED

All meals, tea, coffee, table wine, shared accommodation, saddle bags, riding, and pack horse support, return road transfers between Queenstown the Vulcan Hotel.

WHAT’S EXCLUDED

The price does not include alcohol, international or domestic flights. Full medical and holiday insurance is required to join the ride.

Cancellation and travel insurance are not included. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation

TRANSFERS

You will be picked up from Queenstown between 12 -2 the day before the ride and transferred back on the last day. Road transfers are included.

RIDING

This is an expedition and the going can be technical with thin paths on high mountains. Not suited to someone afraid of heights. We welcome fit, capable, adventurous types that have a positive attitude and want to help around camp and with the horses.

The riding is all at walk as they going is rocky and can be steep. The horses do cover a lot of ground though. You should be able to mount and dismount easily unaided.

John will take us into the backcountry where the only way out is through. It’s a great adventure. Please only apply if you know you’re up to it. Check the photos for an idea of the riding.

MEALS

Good, healthy farm food intended to fill riders up and give them energy. Expect meals such as lamb chops, mince and stews. Breakfast is usually hot, with sausages, egss, toast and beans.

Lunch is packed at the breakfast or dinner tables.You have wraps with ham, salad, cheese, chicken, sauces, crisps / chips, slices, cakes, sweets and fruit. Angie, our host, cooks almost everything herself from scratch using local ingredients.

Tea, coffee, and wine are included but riders are invited to bring along their own supply of alcohol with them. This can also be pre-ordered in advance before travel commences and will be waiting for the rider upon arrival.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advanced notice. Please describe what you need in detail in your rider form so that the outfitters can prepare everything.

VISAS & ENTRY

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.

QUARANTINE AND BIO SECURITY: New Zealand has very strict bio-security regulations. It is illegal to import most foodstuffs (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. The immigration arrivals card has full details. If in doubt, declare items to a Ministry of Agriculture official or dump them in one of the bins available at the airport. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in a heavy fine of up to $100,000 or imprisonment.

For up-to-date information please visit : https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/new-zealand/entry-requirements

WHAT TO PACK

Bring quality clothing but remember that your horse has to carry everything you take on trail. Two outfits to change between as you ride and a layer of high quality rain and wind resistant outdoor gear is a must. Backpacks cannot be worn whilst riding.

You will be given two saddle bags that can hold about an airline carry-on amount of luggage. This will hold your extra layers, waterproof clothing, phone, chapstick, sunscreen, camera, water bottle and your lunchbox (provided).

You will also be given a blue round, canvas bag to hold your clothes, toiletry bag and sleeping bag. This goes on a packhorse and is not accessible during the day.

Large luggage will be left in the support car and you will be reunited with it on the last night.

Head - Sunhat for when not riding - Sunglasses (UV protection) - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding - Buff or bandana for protecting your neck and face from the cold wind.

Body - Thermals in case of cold weather - Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun or extra warmth (quick dry fabric) - T-shirts (quick dry fabric) - Warm polar fleece or equivalent (plus a spare in case one gets wet) - 2 pairs of comfortable riding trousers or long leather chaps - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub - A swimming costume may be useful for impromptu dips in the lakes or washing in the rivers. - Non-irritant cotton or synthetic underwear - Thermal trousers for cold days or for sleeping in

Complete Rain Gear: Long waterproof jacket down to the knees, Waterproof over trousers, 1 spare jean or walking trouser, Gore-tex pants (waterproof and breathable)

Hands and Feet - 1 pair of walking shoes with chaps or boots with specific mini-chaps for riding. Lightweight shoes or trainers for the evenings in the cabins. Several pairs of woolen socks. Thermal Waterproof Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun, wind, cold or rain whilst riding

Helmets are not provided. Please bring your own if you choose to wear one.

POWER & INTERNET

You are off-grid on this trip and phone reception will be mostly non-existent. The main guide will carry a satellite phone. Bring a couple of battery banks to recharge your phone and camera.

PRICES & AVAILABILITY

2024/2025 $6,700 per person sharing (about £3,350 or US$3,940.

01 – 9 December 2024

14 – 22 March 2025

The average age of a rider on a riding holiday is between 50 and 70 and this ride is no different. We will connect our riders on the same departure on whatsapp ahead of time. Our riders usually 27 - 45.

Maximum group size of 10 and minimum of 8.

Book with a 30% deposit with the remainder due 90 days before departure.

Fill in a Rider Form to book or to be added to the waitlist and we will get back to you with more information.

THE SOUTHERN ALPS

If you're planning to spend time in the mountains of Otago, New Zealand, between November and March, it's essential to be prepared for the diverse and sometimes unpredictable climate of the Southern Alps. Some departures experience full sun every day and others can go from 30 degrees to snowing overnight.

As you venture into this stunning region, pack layers of clothing to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day, as mornings and evenings can be cool even during the warmer months. Be sure to bring waterproof outerwear and sturdy hiking boots, as rainfall is still common, especially in the early months of this period. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes, including potential snowfall at higher elevations, particularly in November and March.

Additionally, stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as UV rays can be strong at high altitudes, even on cloudy days.

THE ITINERARY

Please be prepared that the following itinerary may change throughout as we are riding in the mountains along ridge-lines and the weather can change quickly, rivers can flood and we may be required to implement work arounds. We recommend you book an extra night at the end of the ride in Queenstown just in case the weather holds you in the mountain for an extra day.

DAY ONE: Meet at 2:30pm St. Bathan’s Station, Central Otago – 2 hours riding

Your transfer will collect you from Queenstown at 12:30pm to start the drive to picturesque St Bathan’s Station. Come dressed ready to ride as we are heading straight out on the trail. Your luggage will be taken to your accommodation for the evening.

We explore the beautiful St Bathan’s Station, often the shepherds are working flocks of sheep with their dogs. You will be introduced to your horse that will be saddled and ready for the afternoons introductury ride.

Two Hours Riding

Overnight at the Vulcan Hotel. Wifi and cell reception available.

DAY TWO: RIDING ALONG THE RIVER - 6 HOURS RIDING

Saddle up your horses and enjoy a spectacular views as you crisscross the Dunstan River 24 times.

You’ll see the water races that gold miners constructed in the 1800’s when this historic gold mining area was filled with hopeful prospectors.

Like hundreds of musterers before you, you ride your horse through two iconic high country stations today, St Bathan’s Station and Dunstan Downs Station.

As you ride up the valley the majestic mountain they call “Old Man’s peak” stands before you, waiting to be conquered tomorrow. This is New Zealand’s highest stock route at just under 6000 feet above sea level.

Six Hours Riding

Overnight in Private Hut. Space for everyone inside. Cell reception lost on rail.

DAY THREE: SUMMITING OLD MAN PEAK AND RIDING THE LINDIS

Today you summit your first mountain on horseback, like a horse rider in “Lord of the Rings” or “Mulan” your horse carries you to 6000 feet above seas.

From the summit of the highest stock pass in New Zealand, on a clear day you see the four of the highest Mountains in New Zealand’s South Island.

Aorangi (Mount Cook), Mount Aspiring, Mount St. Bathan’s and Mount Tutoko. The vista includes lakes Dunstan & Pukaki, weather permitting.

You’ll enjoy lunch in the golden Lindis Valley before climbing the next range. You’ll reach the mountain top hut in time to watch the sunset while dinner cooks on the billy stove. This is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and share stories while enjoying the incredible views.

Eight Hours Riding

Overnight in Private Hut. Space for everyone inside. Some cell reception if you climb the bank behind the hut.

DAY FOUR: THE LINDIS RIVER

After yesterdays long day in the saddle, this is a shorter days riding to enable the riders and horses to rest before tomorrow’s stunning and dramatic ascent to the top of Mount Prospect.

Today begins with an hour walk descending from the Lindis Ridge. Make sure you pack hiking boots for this one, they should be waterproof and easy to walk in. You’ll weave along the Lindis Valley with high mountains on all sides.

Lunchtime sees us at the side of the Lindis River where the horses enjoy a good graze and nourishing drink from the cool glacial waters.

This afternoon’s ride is through farmed New Zealand high country with Merino sheep, wild deer, and native falcons. You’ll arrive to Burnt Wood Hut in the early evening. There is time for a wine and cheese break before setting up beds in the tin hut and tents in the pine forest. The horses will spend the night in a paddock nearby.

Dinner will be made over the open fire in the hut. Nothing tastes as good as a meal you packed in with your horses and cooked over an open flame. You’ll go to sleep cosy with a full belly.

Four Hours Riding

Overnight in Private Hut. Some will be in tents. No cell reception.

DAY FIVE: THE GREAT PASS FROM MOUNT MELINA TO MOUNT PROSPECT

Today is the big day. You will scale Mount Melina and cross the ridgeline trail to Mount Prospect. This is where our adventure horses come into their own; sure footed and kind they dig into the mountain passes carrying you into dream locations others rarely see. This is a ride for books, with some of the best mountain riding in the world. Trust your horse as you wind around mountain peaks finishing on a plateau that looks straight out of Lord of the Rings.

Lunch is taken amongst the tussock grass as your horses graze nearby. You will feel completely elated - from the elevation and the adrenaline.

After lunch you will follow an old bulldozer track down the mountain to Timaru Creek where a lovely, modern Hut awaits. The horses are turned out in a paddock near the creek. You have joined a section of the Te Araroa Hike, New Zealand’s national thorugh hike where people traverse the entire length of New Zealand - a journey that takes months. You’ll likely share the hut with some hikers so be prepared to put a tent up again.

Wine and cheese and a hot dinner awaits. Tomorrow you will cross another mountain saddle so make sure to get a good nights sleep.

Eight Hours Riding

Overnight in Hut. Some will be in tents. No cell reception.

DAY SIX: MOUNT MARTHA SADDLE

Today is one of the trail bosses favorite days riding; enjoy a day filled with mountain scenery on horseback, second to none in the world. Today is an easier day but the scenery will be just as dramatic. Heading north, you will climb Mount Martha, finishing for lunch on the peak of the mountain. You will have views over to the pass you crossed yesterday. You’ll be impressed with scale of the country you conquered.

After lunch you will descend back into sheep country, making your way to a private hut. Out here in the back country stock is moved by helicopter. You might come across a small chopper that will expertly push sheep into a yard, landing briefly to shut the gate, before taking off again. Your excellent horses won’t even bat an eyelid.

The horses enjoy a huge lush paddock today and you have time to relax in the evening. It must be time for more wine and cheese?

Four Hours Riding

Overnight in Hut. Some will be in tents. No cell reception.

DAY SEVEN: AHURIRI VALLEY

Today you will enjoy views of the Ahuriri conservation park riding close to the Ahuriri River crossing many small streams. This is Merino sheep country whose fine wool has made New Zealand famous. Often the station is mustering the sheep whilst we ride through which a wonderful site to see, shepherd and his dog is working together.

The riding is spectacular today, you’ll be imaging owning this incredible station and building a remote house to live out here, enjoy the views and keep a couple of horses. The day crescendoes with lunch atop the Ben Avon Saddle, with views of mountains in all directions. The horses sometimes pause to let the view sink in too. Even they are impressed.

Tonight we are staying in a beautifully restored historic homestead deep in the heart of the Ahuriri conservation park. We celebrate our final evening together, share a farm house dinner and the stories from the trails we have ridden. Sing to the ukulele around the fire in the lounge snug or simply snuggle up with the book.

Four Hours Riding

Overnight at Ahuriri Lodge in twin rooms with showers. No cell reception.

DAY EIGHT: REST OR RIDE

Today you can choose what you would like to do.

Enjoy a lovely relaxing day enveloped in the magic of the mountains you have been riding over the last week. Sleep late in soft beds enjoys a full farmhouse brunch. There are some lovely walks, some great swimming holes in the river, an amazing catch and release river for fly fishing river or a wonderful warm lounge snug and a good book; or
Ride up Mount Gladwish - 4 hours riding. A stunning days riding high into the mountains affording 360 degree views

Four Hours Riding

Overnight at Ahuriri Lodge in twin rooms with showers. No cell reception.

DAY NINE: DEPARTURE

After a huge hot breakfast you will be picked up by the transfer bus and returned to Queenstown Airport or your accommodation.

Pick up 9:30 am reaching Queenstown Airport 1 >1:30pm depending on traffic/weather

We always recommend to book one night in Queenstown before booking your onward flights just in case the weather holds you up in the mountains for a day.

No riding

Cell Reception 15 minutes into the drive back to Queenstown

RIDING + CAMP ETTIQUITE

Wranglers are responsible for the horses but help from riders is very much appreciated for catching, grooming, tacking/un-tacking, feeding and watering horses. The guide might need your assistance hold a packhorse as they saddle and load them.

Accommodation is limited in huts and sometimes you will be required to put up your own tents. Mats are provided.

Pack horses are lead and riders will take turns ponying a pack horse. Those leading a pack horse usually walk behind the guide for easy access to the packs.

After arriving at camp you will take the bridle off, unsaddle your horse and put the saddle blanket in the sun to dry. All the gear is stacked on a tarpaulin and covered for the night. Horses are hobbled for grazing and then penned overnight.

Campsites and huts need to be left clean and tidy, your help would be most appreciated here but not expected.

When riding aim to keep a horse length behind the horse in front of you. Don’t let your horse eat while you ride. It’s kinder to keep a good pace, minimise their time under saddle and maximise their free time to be a horse.

Always try to mount from a rock or a bank to save your horses’s back.

Never yank your horses mouth. They know their job and you should be able to ride with light contact / at the buckle for most of the safari.