Horse Riding Holidays with a difference

Guided Trail rides on horseback in Golden Bay NZ

Short Rides
Full Day Rides
Multi-Day

Here at Hack n Stay, we’re passionate about sharing the magic of connected horse riding in Golden Bay. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider, we have a horse trek suited to you!

We offer riders of all experience levels opportunities to learn more about the foundations of good horsemanship whilst experiencing stunning coastal scenery of Golden Bay on horseback. With a focus on teaching light and balanced riding, our guided holistic horse riding experiences are so much more than just a trail ride. 

Our professionally guided horse treks provide and safe and fun environment to further your riding knowledge, build confidence and challenge yourself.  Whether you’re looking for a Short Ride to sample the beauty of Golden Bay on horseback or an extended Full Day Ride to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, cuisine and stunning coastal scenery – we have a variety of options just for you!

Here at Hack n Stay we also offer Vaulting Lessons and Experiences for riders of all ages and abilities. If you’re interested in finding your balance, building your confidence and connecting with a horse in this unique manner check out our Vaulting Experiences.

Trip Advisor Travellers CHoice Award

Short Rides

Sample the beauty of Golden Bay on Horseback

Our short trail rides offer riders of all experience levels and ages the opportunity to learn about the magic of connected and balanced riding, whilst experiencing the beauty of Paton’s Rock Beach. We have options available for the whole family and cater rides for complete Beginners through to Experienced Riders.

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Hack Track

The perfect introduction to balanced riding for riders of all ages, the Hack Track is a 1.5h ride through our rolling farm country. Ride through native forests, with great views of the ocean and enough ups and downs to challenge new riders.

  • $95.00 NZD
  • 1.5 h
  • Beginner
  • Daily Departures
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Paton's Rock Beach Ride

Our most popular ride for riders of all abilities. The Paton’s Rock Beach ride takes you through our famous Hack Track down to the beach where will you be able to explore the scenic coastal vistas.

  • $135.00 NZD
  • 2.5 h
  • Beginner / Intermediate / Experienced
  • Daily Departures
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Swimming with Horses

There are few things quite as magical as swimming with your horse in the ocean. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Golden bay as we ride down to Paton’s Rock Beach, untack and feel the waves flow underneath you as you swim in crystal clear water.

  • $185.00 NZD
  • 2.5-3 h
  • Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced
  • Daily Departures
Book Now
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Full Moon Ride

These special rides are only available a few times a year when the full moon rises early over the ocean. Watch the sun sink behind the ocean before seeing the waves glistening in the moonlight. 

  • $150.00 NZD
  • 2.5 h
  • Intermediate / Experienced
  • Next Departure: 27/03/2020
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Sunrise/Sunset Ride

Our sunset rides take you through native forest and rolling farm country before hitting the beach and watching the sun paint the sky red as it sets behind the waves. If the conditions allow, you may eve spot some glow-worms on your way back.

  • $150.00 NZD
  • 2.5 h
  • Beginner / Intermediate / Experienced
  • Daily Departures
Book Now

More info

For the wellfare of our horses and due to the challenging terrain of our rides, Our weight limit for all rides is 90kg. Depending on riding experience and fitness level we may make exceptions. If you are over our weight limit, we do have a number of non-ridden activities that will still allow you to have a memorable experience with your horse.

We don’t believe in age being a limiting factor for a horse ride. If you’re capable of sitting independently, our team of highly trained horses can take you for a ride. We’ve had riders as young as 3 and as mature as 90 and all have had a fantastic time in a safe environment. 

We believe your horse experience with us is so much more than simply time in the saddle. All of our ride times include catching and getting to know your horses, brushing and feeding them as a thank you afterward. We find guests love the opportunity to bond with their horse and then further their connection in the saddle.

We recommend wearing comfortable long trousers (no zip-offs) and closed shoes. A loose long sleeve shirt is also a good idea to protect yourself against the harsh sun. If you’ve booked a swimming ride, bring your swimmers along too.

Our rides are catered to your individual abilities so even in mixed experience groups, we allow opportunities for controlled trots and occasional canters on the beach dependent on your guide’s confidence in your riding ability. 

Have more questions?

Send us a Message

Sometimes you just can't contain the feeling of exhilaration that bubbles up when you find your confidence in the saddle.

This photo ...

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Sometimes you just can't contain the feeling of exhilaration that bubbles up when you find your confidence in the saddle. This photo was taken a few moments after Annette and Brunner had gone for their first canter of the day together along the shimmering sands of #patonsrock beach. The photo says it all, Ride on! #horsesofinstagram #horseholiday #newzealand #horsenation #takaka #goldenbay #dosomethingnewnz #horserider #horsemanship #appaloosa #hackfarm

One of the coolest things about having a herd of highly trained equine workmates is how well they can adapt to and take care of riders of all ages and...

Open
One of the coolest things about having a herd of highly trained equine workmates is how well they can adapt to and take care of riders of all ages and abilities. This amazing morning out on one of our #patonsrock beach rides is the perfect example with a mixed group of 9 riders of all abilities from a few 1st timers to a couple of seasoned riders. Young kids taking the reigns for the first time through to adults dusting off the cob webs from their lpng retired riding pants to get back into the saddle - all able to challenge themselves in a fun and safe way and get the most out of their ride. To our guests, thank you all for such a fun morning and bringing such enthusiasm and joy along for the ride. To our #horses, thank you for being awesome! 🐎 🥰 Ride on! #arnie #brunner

One of our young riders doing a great job of finding his centre and standing up as he helps #jasper climb the winding hill of our #hacktrack.

...

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One of our young riders doing a great job of finding his centre and standing up as he helps #jasper climb the winding hill of our #hacktrack. As summer slowly starts to wind down, autumn begins to paint the leaves with her golden colors and the changes are just beautiful! #kidsridinghorses #youngrider #hacknstay

Bubble ride!
#McDuff shows Sven the trail #PatonsRock

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Bubble ride! #McDuff shows Sven the trail #PatonsRock

Boxing day sunrise ride • • • •
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#nz
#sunrise #horses #newzealand #morning #horse #horsesofinstagram #nzmustdo #equestrian ...

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Boxing day sunrise ride • • • • • #nz #sunrise #horses #newzealand #morning #horse #horsesofinstagram #nzmustdo #equestrian #purenewzealand #sunrise #skylovers #destinationnz #arab #ilovenelsontasman #equine #sunshine #goldenbay #horseriding #horsestagram #kiwi_photos #day #instasky #sunrise_sunsets_aroundworld #horizon #ponies #newzealandvacations #newzealandfinds #horses_of_instagram #sunsetride #patonsrock

Stunning intimate Sunday ride.
#hacknstay #rideon #goldenbaynz #newzealand #patonsrock #brownacre

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Stunning intimate Sunday ride. #hacknstay #rideon #goldenbaynz #newzealand #patonsrock #brownacre

Clydesdale canter
@PatonsRockNZ #patonsrock #brownacre

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Clydesdale canter @PatonsRockNZ #patonsrock #brownacre

A very happy 60th birthday ride for Tom! 🤩
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#ridenz #equestrian #mustdonz #goldenbay #ilovenelsontasman #beach #horseride #trek ...

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A very happy 60th birthday ride for Tom! 🤩 . . #ridenz #equestrian #mustdonz #goldenbay #ilovenelsontasman #beach #horseride #trek #horsetrek #horsesnz #newzealand #nz #brownacre #patonsrock

Rainy days aren’t so bad! .
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#newzealand #hackfarmnz #horseriding #equestrian #beach #nzmustdo #redwing #patonsrock #brunner

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Rainy days aren’t so bad! . . . . #newzealand #hackfarmnz #horseriding #equestrian #beach #nzmustdo #redwing #patonsrock #brunner

One of the rides at #hackfarm today #goldenbaynz #See #Sun #ridingnz #goodhorses #rideon #hacktivity #hacknstay #hackandstay #patonsrock

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One of the rides at #hackfarm today #goldenbaynz #See #Sun #ridingnz #goodhorses #rideon #hacktivity #hacknstay #hackandstay #patonsrock

#Sunrise #Vaulting at #PatonsRock beach

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#Sunrise #Vaulting at #PatonsRock beach

#luke smiling for the photo down on #patonsrock beach

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#luke smiling for the photo down on #patonsrock beach

What a perfect spot to catch the last light of the day ☀
#hacknstay #sunset #rideon #hacktrack #leonard #brunner

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What a perfect spot to catch the last light of the day ☀ #hacknstay #sunset #rideon #hacktrack #leonard #brunner

Guests enjoying their short ‘hacktivities’ with @hackfarmnz

"I had always wanted to ride a beautiful horse, but was afraid to try. I decided to take the bit between the teeth and have a go, so I booked 2 nights camping and the 2nd day a riding experience at Hack and stay. What a fabulous time I had, Babel had me up on Brownacre and riding across the beautiful golden beaches within an hour. I learned so much about how to ride correctly, what was best for the horse and best for me (good posture!). They cater for all riding abilities, I had no experience, another customer had ridden his own horse previously and another had ridden when she was younger. We all had a great time....3 hours of riding pleasure. Babel shares years of knowledge and has a great sense of humour, she’s is very passionate about what she does and hearing her story was really inspiring. The camping facilities are just what you need, a clean kitchen, lovely bathroom facilities and a chill out room. I would not hesitate to recommend the whole experience, I am so glad I have this memory to take home with me, I will certainly use my new knowledges to have another go in future."
Stefanie T
Stefanie Tmarch 2020
"Hack and stay is a real peace of heaven. The horses are really well treated and the track to the beach is amazing. But there’s so much more than trekking, there’s all sorts of swings for the children, a little climbing wall and you can even try some vaulting. We’ll remember our stay forever!!"
Anne Lise
Anne LiseNovember 2020
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Full Day Rides

Immerse yourself in the splendour of the Tasman Region.

Perfect for experienced riders looking to make the most of their time on horseback, our full day horse treks combine the best of all worlds as we immerse you in the rich culture, history and stunning natural environment Golden Bay has to offer. From riding through ancient Kahikatea forests to riding through to the famous Mussel Inn for a beer and some local cuisine, these rides are the best way to really experience Golden Bay.

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Rangi' Ride

Rangihaeata is a beach – headland- eastuary- esplanade – reserve ride. Wow- It will take you 4 hours and is a stunner regarding changing landscape, nature and great beaches. We cross the Onahau River and come along Maori heritages. Stories to tell and memories to collect.

  • $210.00 NZD
  • 4.5h
  • Intermediate / Experienced
  • Enquire For Availability
Book Now
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Mussel Inn - Ale Trail

The Ale Trail is an interesting ride along the beach and past headlands with 2 river crossings.  We can tie the horses up at the Mussel Inn hitching rail, we’ll shout you a drink then ride on home before the next high tide. 

Weather and tide dependent.   

  • $280.00 NZD
  • 6 h
  • Experienced
  • Enquire for Availability
Book Now
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Collingwood Discovery

A stunningly good ride along the beach to  the quaint village of Collingwood. Along the way we ride through unique art displays, rock formations and have plenty of opportunities to stretch our legs. Here we can visit the cafes, get a drink or a beer in the village before heading back via float or through the changing light of this wonderful tidal landscape. Just for experienced riders, tide and weather dependent.    

  • $300.00 NZD
  • 6h +
  • Experienced
  • Enquire for Availability
Book Now

Sometimes you just can't contain the feeling ...

Open
Sometimes you just can't contain the feeling of exhilaration that bubbles up when you find your confidence in the saddle. This photo was taken a few moments after Annette and Brunner had gone for their first canter of the day together along the shimmering sands of #patonsrock beach. The photo says it all, Ride on! #horsesofinstagram #horseholiday #newzealand #horsenation #takaka #goldenbay #dosomethingnewnz #horserider #horsemanship #appaloosa #hackfarm

"Horses Lend us the wings we lack"
...

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"Horses Lend us the wings we lack" - Pam Brown Every rider can remember the very first time they went for a canter. The gift of flight offered in partnership with your horse that leaves you feeling so much lighter, so much... 'more' than you were before. We cherish these moments, and with experiences like our "Ride & FLy" we love helping our guests find their own wings in a fun and safe manner. #horsesofinstagram #horse #Hackfarm #GoldenBay #Takaka #BrownAcre #vaulting #RideandFly #NelsonTasman #Horsemanship #visitgoldenbay

#arnie and #leonard riding past the remnants of an...

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#arnie and #leonard riding past the remnants of an ancient Kahikatea forest on our 4 hour #rangiride. So much to see and experience on the Rangihaeata Headland and it's diversity of coastal tidal landscapes. #Rangihaeata #Visitgoldenbay #Goldenbay #horsesofinstagram

#Rangihaeata is a favourite destination for ...

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#Rangihaeata is a favourite destination for guides, #horses and guests. Thought we'd share this little slice of heaven of us cantering on reflected clouds on this wonderful #rangiride. Thank you for an awesome ride, so great to see the horses have so much fun! #goldenbaynz #hacknstay #fulldayride #horsesofinstagram #beachriding

Early morning Rangihaeata Headland ride

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Early morning Rangihaeata Headland ride #rangiride

What a stunning morning ride at #Rangihaeata ...

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What a stunning morning ride at #Rangihaeata Beach #goldenbaynz #hacknstay #beachride #newzealand #ridetolive #rideon #farmhack

Clydesdale canter
@PatonsRockNZ #patonsrock ...

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Clydesdale canter @PatonsRockNZ #patonsrock #brownacre

Lovely to see happy riders 🤗 Southland rider on...

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Lovely to see happy riders 🤗 Southland rider on the Rangihaeata Headland ride today #luke #rangiride

guests out on their horses exploring Golden Bay on our full day rides 

Tag @hackfarmnz on Instagram for your chance to feature. 

"I have had the pleasure of riding all over the world on holidays with my students and this was one of the best we have ever experienced. The location is gorgeous, a short trail ride to the beach where you can ride a very interesting coastal area and swim with your horse. The horses were very well trained and cared for and the host is passionate about teaching riders at diverse levels from beginner to advanced. Such a kind and welcoming environment! They accommodated our gluten free diet needs and we rode to the Mussel Inn, a micro brewery and had fresh, wonderful sea food. We took a night ride to see a glow worm colony and were made to feel like family. My farm, Shea Rose Farm, also has a vaulting team that is competitive, and we enjoyed sharing some of our knowledge with their vaulters. Definitely make this a stop if you can make it to Golden Bay!!"
Carol L
Carol LTrip Advisor
"I have been on a few treks.. but none like my friend and I experienced here. I had booked a trek to the Mussel Inn which was several hours. Baerbel was welcoming and accommodating as soon as we arrived. We had a quick tour of the accommodation she offers at the farm which is really nice as I had never heard of a horse backpackers/B&B 🙂 Baerbel took a good amount of time to assess where our riding levels were at, and really took the time to explain riding style and how the horses respond. Really interesting stuff to me. This instantly set Hack Farm somewhat aside from other treks which now seem as though we were just in a rush to get on and then off. Overall, amazing opportunities to learn, fantastic people, cool part of the country, excellent to hear about local conservation efforts, really good value for money and I will definitely be coming again when I am in the area. In fact... it is probably going to be the main pull for me to visit the area again. This time I think I will see if I can stay a weekend 🙂 Thanks Baerbel for your time and attention 🙂 I think you have such a good thing going on at Hack Farm. Thumbs up! All the best.
xfix
xfixDecember 2015
As I hadn't been on horseback for a longer period of time, I was a bit nervous at the beginning of our hack, but Baerbel is a great coach, who makes you feel very confident and secure on your horse. During these few hours on horseback I learnt so much about natural horsemanship thanks to Baerbel while at the same time enjoying the amazing track along the beautiful beaches. I had lots of fun with Trixie, my horse, with her being very responsive and friendly. Despite the bad weather it was an awesome experience that will be remembered. Not to forget to mention the refreshing break at the legendary Mussel Inn... I have not experienced the accommodation, only had a look around the beautiful rooms that Baerbel and Thomas offer in their B&B. They look so inviting that I hope to be back at Hack 'n' Stay in future!
Anja Q
Anja QTrip Advisor
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Sometimes you just can't contain the feeling ...

Open
Sometimes you just can't contain the feeling of exhilaration that bubbles up when you find your confidence in the saddle. This photo was taken a few moments after Annette and Brunner had gone for their first canter of the day together along the shimmering sands of #patonsrock beach. The photo says it all, Ride on! #horsesofinstagram #horseholiday #newzealand #horsenation #takaka #goldenbay #dosomethingnewnz #horserider #horsemanship #appaloosa #hackfarm

"Horses Lend us the wings we lack"
...

Open
"Horses Lend us the wings we lack" - Pam Brown Every rider can remember the very first time they went for a canter. The gift of flight offered in partnership with your horse that leaves you feeling so much lighter, so much... 'more' than you were before. We cherish these moments, and with experiences like our "Ride & FLy" we love helping our guests find their own wings in a fun and safe manner. #horsesofinstagram #horse #Hackfarm #GoldenBay #Takaka #BrownAcre #vaulting #RideandFly #NelsonTasman #Horsemanship #visitgoldenbay

#Arnie ready for what ever thr weather might throw...

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#Arnie ready for what ever thr weather might throw at him.

Sound On 🎶

As well as the ever ...

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Sound On 🎶 As well as the ever changing coastal beauty of #goldenbaynz , our #horse trails are full of surprises around every corner! From kids flying kites to balls being kicked around to racing go carts and motorbikes - No two days are ever the same! So how do you prepare a horse for the unexpected? How do we train our trekking team to stay cool, calm and comfortable regardless of what they might encounter? Well... it all starts with a foundation of good #horsemanship principles: encouraging curiosity over fear and helping them find their own calm in the face of something new. Once we've taught them these tools, we regularly like to check in and challenge our team with new and exciting obstacles. To help us to this end, we bring in some of the best teachers we know: our tried and trusted old timers to show the newbies the ropes. In this video you'll see #brownacre, #song and #arnie all lending their courage to the newbies like #kelly . What's your favorite game to play with your horse? 🙂 Ride on!

One of the coolest things about having a herd of ...

Open
One of the coolest things about having a herd of highly trained equine workmates is how well they can adapt to and take care of riders of all ages and abilities. This amazing morning out on one of our #patonsrock beach rides is the perfect example with a mixed group of 9 riders of all abilities from a few 1st timers to a couple of seasoned riders. Young kids taking the reigns for the first time through to adults dusting off the cob webs from their lpng retired riding pants to get back into the saddle - all able to challenge themselves in a fun and safe way and get the most out of their ride. To our guests, thank you all for such a fun morning and bringing such enthusiasm and joy along for the ride. To our #horses, thank you for being awesome! 🐎 🥰 Ride on! #arnie #brunner

What better way to say goodbye to a wonderful ...

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What better way to say goodbye to a wonderful guide than a #sunrise ride to welcome in the new dawn. Anna, Thank you for all your hard work and dedication over the last 3 months! We're all going to miss you so much (Especially #Arnie) and we look forward to following your journey with #horses.

#arnie and #leonard riding past the remnants of an...

Open
#arnie and #leonard riding past the remnants of an ancient Kahikatea forest on our 4 hour #rangiride. So much to see and experience on the Rangihaeata Headland and it's diversity of coastal tidal landscapes. #Rangihaeata #Visitgoldenbay #Goldenbay #horsesofinstagram

One of our young riders doing a great job of ...

Open
One of our young riders doing a great job of finding his centre and standing up as he helps #jasper climb the winding hill of our #hacktrack. As summer slowly starts to wind down, autumn begins to paint the leaves with her golden colors and the changes are just beautiful! #kidsridinghorses #youngrider #hacknstay

#Rangihaeata is a favourite destination for ...

Open
#Rangihaeata is a favourite destination for guides, #horses and guests. Thought we'd share this little slice of heaven of us cantering on reflected clouds on this wonderful #rangiride. Thank you for an awesome ride, so great to see the horses have so much fun! #goldenbaynz #hacknstay #fulldayride #horsesofinstagram #beachriding

Some fun at the lake on the rope swing, eagerly ...

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Some fun at the lake on the rope swing, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Summer. #camping #familyfun HACK N STAY

Bubble ride!
#McDuff shows Sven the trail ...

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Bubble ride! #McDuff shows Sven the trail #PatonsRock

Early morning Rangihaeata Headland ride

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Early morning Rangihaeata Headland ride #rangiride

Amazing #Arnie
Having a bath without ...

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Amazing #Arnie Having a bath without rolling Marvellous #goldenbaynz👌 #Horseome #swimmingwithhorses #newzealand #ilovenelsontasman #hacknstay #arnie

Multi-Day Experiences

A bespoke horse riding holiday, designed by you specifically for you.

So often we hear guests say that they wish they could have spent more time learning to connect with their horse and exploring wonders of Golden Bay’s Beaches on horseback.

We created a flexible package designed to help you create your own adventure around what you most want to get out of your time with us. Spend your day’s Vaulting, Riding or Learning Horsemanship with comfortable Accommodation in our homestead included.

Booking Request

Frequently Asked Multiday Questions

In a nutshell, our multiday packages are loaded with incredible value, including comfortable accommodation in our homestead as well as 1 full day of horseback activities per day. This could either be 2 activities/lessons from our short ride section or one full day ride.

Your itinerary is up to you! Have a chat to us, we love building the ultimate riding holiday with a focus on the things you love most!

We can also help you put together the perfect complimentary local sightseeing itinerary on request. 

We provide all the essentials you might expect in a fully equipped kitchen- Coffee, Tea, Butter, milk, bread etc.

However we don’t provide any cooked meals. Bring your own food and store it in the fridge or check out some of the great local food establishments.

Hack n Stay is dedicated to those who want to enjoy the simple things in life. Bring your own horse or enjoy time with one of ours in Beautiful Golden Bay.

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Accommodation

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Booking Request Form

Please note that all our rides are subject to tide times and weather. Please fill in all the details below and we will get back to you with the perfect time for your horse riding experience.

Multi-day Day Booking Request Form

We’re so excited to help you build your dream horse riding holiday! For every day of our multi-day stay you’ll have the option of either 2 short rides/lessons or one full day ride every day, as well as accommodation. 

Please fill out the form below and one of our team will get back to you.