Four of the best: Horse treks

Pakiri Beach Horse Rides. Photo / Supplied

Why not saddle up and take the kids on a horse trek these school holidays? This is the kind of rein you've been hoping for.

1. Phillips Equine
123 Woodside Rd, Matangi, ph 07 8295605.

Five minutes south of Hamilton, 10 minutes from Cambridge, Phillips Equine have a full riding school, wonderful instructors and horses for all abilities. The school holiday programmes are very popular, and they're OSCAR approved. Full days, half days or every day.

2. Pakiri Beach Horse Rides
317 Rahuikiri Rd, Pakiri Beach, Wellsford, ph 09 422 6275.

Just 90 minutes from Auckland, Pakiri Beach Horse Rides can take horse fans on day rides, overnights, or go the whole hog and do the seven-day coast to coast ride. Tranquil or exhilarating, the choice is yours.

3. Muriwai Beach Riding Centre
290 Oaia Rd, Waimauku, ph 09 411 8480.

Gallop along the sand, canter at the water's edge, or trot through lush native forests. Treks at 10am and 1.30pm daily. Bookings essential.

4. Tasman Horse Rides
Fordyce Rd, RD1 Helensville, ph 09 4208603.

50 km from downtown Auckland, these rides cater for families, school groups, corporates. They have a full holiday programme, which includes camps from 1-5 days. All ages and levels of experience welcome.