This 21/2 - 3 hour ride takes you over farmland to an altitude of 150m (500 feet), through Woodhill State Forest and onto Muriwai Beach. Along the way you will see cattle and sheep grazing in large paddocks, the Kaipara Harbour in the east and a panoramic view of Muriwai Settlement, 50km (30 miles) of beach and the Kaipara Break to the north.

This ride follows a lake edge south, with mature kanuka trees flanking the western track side, then heads through man-made radiate pine forest to Muriwai Beach. Here, you may see seabirds, seals or even fish in the surf, before heading back to base on a different trail.

Full Day Treks - from NZ$185.00

Our full-day ride covers more country, so you can get to the highest point in South Head, or maybe ride for 13km (8 miles) along Muriwai Beach before a forest ride home. A tasty lunch is included, and if there are more than four in your group a gourmet feast will be delivered to a pre-arranged lunch spot in the forest or by the lake.

Overnight Treks - from $600.00

You'll begin with a forest ride to the lakes where horses and riders can swim if desired. Lunch is usually beside the lake or in the forest, before an afternoon of forest tracks opening to an historic farm of 1012ha (2500 acres).

You'll spend the night in converted shearer's quarters (below). These sleep 12 people in six rooms, and feature two showers, two toilets, a large kitchen/dining area and a long verandah. Share the view with your hosts around a barbeque.

Next day the return journey takes you to the tip of the South Head peninsula where the Kaipara Harbour meets the Tasman Sea - the views are really spectacular! Crossing the wilderness flats you will pass (and ride on if you want) sand dunes up to 20 metres (60 feet) in height. then it's out onto the beach and nothing but sand and surf. You will cover 16km (10 miles) of Muriwai Beach before re-entering Woodhill Forest on your homeward trail.  (These days vary depending on tides.)