Smitty's Ridge horse trekking

“This is a great place, off the beaten track. Yes, you can find it on Google Maps and they are very good about giving you the address which Google will get you there. Be ready for some very narrow dirt roads. It’s on the road to an amazing good time. There were seven of us, six who had never ridden before. We were matched up with very wonderful animals whose temperament matched the riders. No spills, no disasters. This is not a pony or ride around and around at the A&P show. This is a full on proper ride across the hills, up and down in beautiful New Zealand countryside. Are you seriously wanting anything else? The views are amazing as you have not only the country and hillside, but also the far horizon view to the ocean. The horses are well behaved and know the routine. Still a bit of a spirit with them and you know that what they would really like to do is continue on for another two or three hours after the ride has been going for an hour or so. Because they gage in the group, you can be a first time rider or a very experienced rider and get something out of your time. For extra experience riders there are some pretty challenging stuff to work with for rides. I would say that if you are up in Auckland, you should take the 1.5 hour drive down. If you’re coming in from overseas, or a different region, real easy to make this a day activity. You need to be Ord for accommodation as there’s nothing nearby. Hints: wear long pants, shoes, and a long sleeve shirt. Definitely put on sunscreen and don’t forget to do your lips. Mine got fried ouch. There is no place currently for eating, so you need to have a good breakfast or lunch before you arrive and pack snacks. Bring your water bottles for after the ride. You can take pictures, the main issue is controlling the phone in between shots. Best if you have deep shirt pocket with a button so it doesn’t bounce out. Or better yet some way to have it on a dongle around your neck. My kids gave it 10 out of 10 with a return value to Do the trip again as a 10.”

“What a fantastic evening with Jenny, Ian, and Breanna. We both had a great time. I was on Mr. Ed, who was well-suited to my inexperience, and my wife rode CC. Before we mounted, Breanna gave us a safety briefing and basic handling tips, which were very informative. The trek was over rolling hills with wonderful views; unfortunately, the clouds rolled over and blocked a glorious sunset. I would definitely recommend it. We arrived as patrons and left as friends. The weather can be changeable at Smitty’s. Bring something warm, a showerproof jacket, sun protection, and a drink. It is important that you are comfortable, so long pants that allow freedom of movement are ideal. Closed-in shoes or boots are essential.”

“Best horse trek experience, guides & healthy horses. I have ridden a LOT of horse treks in Oz & NZ, even ran some in Oz & i have to say Ian (Cowboy) & Jenny have a healthy & happy heard of beautiful horses, amazing land to trek on & they are both so lovely, friendly & amenable. My 2 teens & i did the sunset trek & it was spectacular!! 10 STARS all day, can’t wait to go back! nga mihi, H”

“I had such a great time! Highly recommend. The horses are lovely, the scenery is beautiful, and Jenny is so sweet. I wish I could have spent all day riding. I will definitely be back. Can't stop gushing about my experience.”