If you love to get in the saddle and feel the wind in your hair, a great way to see the area north of Dunedin is on horseback. Hare Hill Horse Treks has a variety of treks to choose from, with a wide range of horses – including a good selection of quiet horses which are used to trekking.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve ridden all your life, or you’ve never ridden a horse before, because you’ll be able to go at your own pace as you ride across some beautiful farming and bush country with spectacular views. All the riding and safety equipment is supplied, so you don’t have to worry about anything – just make sure you’re wearing long trousers and closed-toe shoes.
There are plenty of treks to choose from – from a two hour scenic harbour trek, exploring rolling farmland, plantation and bush to a three hour ride on the beautiful beaches of Aramoana where you can look out for seals, sea lions and penguins. There’s also a half-day Hare Hill Trail along the harbour’s edge following an historic route, with a chance to see panoramic views of the Otago Harbour and eastern Otago coastline.
If you really want a big adventure, you could try a full day trek, experiencing working farms, historic settlements and coastal bush remnants, with a backdrop of views stretching from Shag Point to Taieri Mouth.
Or you could try an overnight escape, for 24 to 36 hours. You'll spend the afternoon riding to secluded Whareakeake Beach , and arrive late afternoon at an historic cottage where you can enjoy a delicious meal. Then spend the evening walking on the beach, fishing, riding, swimming or just relaxing. In the morning, you'll follow a different route back to Hare Hill. And to mix it up a little, there's a nine-hole golf course, so you could ride for a bit then play a round of golf if you fancy it.
All in all, seeing the area on horseback is something really quite special. It may sound cheesy, but there's something pretty cool about clip-clopping your way through the amazing scenery.
Hare Hill Horse Treks is north of Port Chalmers on the way to Aramoana.
By car, set off from the Visitor's Centre at the Octagon, follow lower Stuart Street , turn left at Cumberland Street (one way system heading north), turn right at St Andrews Street , then left at Anzac Avenue and follow SH88 to Port Chalmers. At the Container Terminal turn left and follow the road beside the harbour to the far side of Deborah Bay , where you will see the sign Hare Hill Horse Treks.
Regular daily bus services leave Cumberland Street , stand 4 (opposite Cadbury's Chocolate Factory). A free pick-up from Port Chalmers is available, and a pick-up from town is available for a small charge.
