Riding at Kowhai was great, everyone was very friendly and the two ponies I rode while i was there were perfect matches for me. The lessons were very good and the instructors very helpful :) While I was there I even got to do (my first!) jumper show which was an amazing experience for me! I hope some day I... More

Note: We actually visited in June of 2008. The flight to Christchurch from Rotorua took a little over an hour, which flew by and when we got off, Chris (from Kowhai Farm) was waiting for us. He helped us load up our bags and we headed to his van. It was a 50-60 minute ride from the airport to the... More

I had recently started taking horse riding lessons in my home town, but was frustrated by my slow progress due to only riding for an hour a week. I also wanted to know if horse riding was something I would like to stick with, or if I would get bored with it after a while. When I saw that Kowhai... More

So pleased to have traveled here and met all the team Liz, Chris, Becky and many local riders. Everyday was an adventure. A really welcoming farm, very homely environment. Being at the foothills of the Oxford Mountains the trails and views were beautiful. Practicing in either of the two flat rings or the jump ring was so helpful and well... More

I booked a day tour with transfers from/to Christchurch and it was a waste of money and time. The instructor for the day was a girl from Germany, who had been working in Kowhai only for 10 days. There were three of us - myself, the instructor and her boyfriend from Germany. I asked them not to speak any German... More

As an adult who rode competitively in youth, I often feel the need to indulge my horsey inclinations. Up until I discovered Kowhai I was always left feeling dissatisfied by 'horse trekking' outfits which are not designed to meet the needs of experienced riders. Kowhai was like a bolt from the blue when I discovered it - for only a... More

Kowhai offers very happy and highly trained horses, highest level of dedication to excellence in teaching and unparalleled natural beauty and scenery in the treks. We were thoroughly impressed. Passion and utmost dedication shine through in every detail of this great outfit!! We hope to return regularly. What a find, what a gem!! More

What an amazing experience with Chris, Becky, Liz and all the girls who instruct and help out. We are not riders, but in two days learned to walk, trot and canter in the english style. These people can teach anyone. We had great "home cooked meals", by Becky and were with people of all ages. The views and country side... More

We spent three nights as a family (two girls 10 and 11). It was very pleasing to see the way the instructors had the girls dealing with the less glamorous aspects of horse care (shovel, anyone?) as well as learning the basic riding skills required. The accommodation is basic but very homey and welcoming. The food is country kitchen and... More