Alpine Horse Safaris
📍 The Peaks, Canterbury
Alpine Horse Safaris near Hawarden runs multi-day horse treks from two hours to 12-day expeditions. Clydesdale/Thoroughbred cross horses traverse mountain passes and river crossings. Guides Lawrie and Jenny O'Carroll run all treks personally.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Experienced riders describe the scenery as outstanding and the Clydesdale crosses as remarkably sure-footed. Guides Lawrie and Jenny receive repeated praise for their patience and knowledge of the country. Riders returning from the 12-day Tekapo trek describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →14 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Luca Seradi
11 months ago
“Spent 3 months back in 1993? at the farm with Laurie and Jenny. Incredible place. Incredible experience.”
AF Hamilton
2 years ago
“I recently rode on the 12 day Tekapo trek (& have previously ridden on a 6 day trek) with Apline Horse Safaris. The horses are incredibly strong & sure footed. This is an amazing adventure with outstanding scenery that most people will never get the chance to see.”
Nicole Kumpfmueller
3 years ago
“Lawrie and Jenny are just the best people! So patient with beginners, they have worked with horses their whole life's and you can tell !! We learned a lot and would recommend them to anyone who is up for an amazing real horseback adventure through NZ !”
📊 Commonly mentioned in Google reviews
Based on Google review tagsAmazing adventure
2 reviews
Overview
Alpine Horse Safaris operates from Waitohi Downs near Hawarden, roughly 75 minutes north of Christchurch. Treks range from two-hour rides to 12-day Tekapo expeditions crossing mountain passes and river flats. Camp meals are cooked over open fires. Guides Lawrie and Jenny O'Carroll lead all rides. A 120kg weight limit applies. Wet weather gear is not provided. Minimum rider numbers apply for longer expeditions. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian diets are accommodated.
