1 / 2Falling Creek Ranch
📍 RD12, Manawatu-Wanganui
Falling Creek Ranch is a 91-hectare working farm 15km from Whanganui run by Mel and Zane Scott. Riding lessons, scenic treks across the property (creeks, ponds, forestry), school-holiday camps for kids and teens, and birthday parties for groups of up to ten.
For my daughter Az'rael's 9th Birthday we had a group of 5 children and 5 adults, most of whom had limited or no experience riding. The safety talk and introduction on the way to sit, hold and ride was clear. Lots of patience, encouragement and humor made it rather fun. Everyone had a huge smile on their faces at the end of the roadside trek. Mel and Zane we wonderfully positive and inclusive and really trust worthy. I highly and fully endorse this experience.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Beginner-friendly through to experienced. Reviewers consistently name Mel as the guide and call out how she takes time with first-time riders, including kids as young as nine. Treks include creek and pond crossings and the chance to help herd cattle. Birthday parties run for groups of five to ten kids.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →162 Google reviews
Alison Doyle
2 months ago
“For my daughter Az'rael's 9th Birthday we had a group of 5 children and 5 adults, most of whom had limited or no experience riding. The safety talk and introduction on the way to sit, hold and ride was clear. Lots of patience, encouragement and humor made it rather fun. Everyone had a huge smile on their faces at the end of the roadside trek. Mel and Zane we wonderfully positive and inclusive and really trust worthy. I highly and fully endorse this experience.”
Daniel Pascoe
2 months ago
“Would highly recommend going to Falling Creek Ranch! They are so welcoming and felt like going to a friend’s house rather than a booked activity. We were lucky to have Mel guide us around and take us for a brilliant trek! Even tho I’m a beginner rider compared to my wife, we still both had a wicked time. Mel gave me plenty of tips and tricks to help me get along! What a day! Don’t hesitate, you won’t regret it! Cheers guys! :)”
Shana Pickett
2 months ago
“We had the best day! I can't say enough good things. Horses were wonderful, Mel was friendly, supportive, patient and went above and beyond ensuring we both loved every minute. We covered gorgeous farm land, splashed through a creek and pond and rode through forestry. A fantastic trek where you actually got to ride not just sit on horses as they followed the leader. ❤️ can't wait to go back!”
Katie Horrex
3 months ago
“My boys (10yrs and 9yrs) had the very BEST time at Falling Creek Ranch. As very beginner riders, they got the chance to learn/master some basic skills before heading off on a little trek - it was perfect and the right amount of adventure. They can't wait to go back!”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Falling Creek Ranch sits on a 91-hectare working farm near Okoia, 15 km out of Whanganui. Owners Mel and Zane Scott run riding lessons, guided treks across the property (creeks, ponds, and forestry tracks), school-holiday camps for kids and teens, and birthday parties for up to ten participants. Beginners are welcomed with a structured introduction to handling and riding; experienced riders can take longer paced rides. The ranch was featured on Country Calendar in 2025.
