Saddle up among native trees, follow a sculpture-dotted trail through vineyard slopes and finish with a lakeside wine tasting and lunch. This private Matakana tour blends a calm horse ride with art, birdlife and boutique wines—perfect for an easy outdoors day from Auckland.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning light slices through native taraire and pōhutukawa as you saddle up at a quiet Matakana paddock. Horses stamp and shift, the air smells of damp earth and cut grass; in the distance the Brick Bay vineyard rises across gentle slopes, its rows guiding your eye toward the Hauraki Gulf.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to walk on uneven ground and mount/dismount a horse.
Wildlife
History
The Matakana-Warkworth area combines long-standing Māori connections with more recent European pastoral development and a growing boutique wine industry that expanded in the late 20th century.
Conservation
Stick to marked trails and respect on-site biosecurity—vineyards and native remnant bush depend on visitors staying on paths and minimizing disturbance to birdlife.
Reserve your spot on the Private Tour - Horse Riding, Wine Tasting and Art Trail today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Weight limit and experience
Maximum rider weight is 100 kg (220 lb); disclose your riding experience level when booking so they can assign a suitable horse.
Footwear matters
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes or paddock boots for the ride and for the sculpture trail; avoid flimsy sandals.
Sun and rain protection
Bring sunscreen and a light waterproof—coastal weather changes quickly and the trail offers limited shelter.
Photography etiquette
Keep a respectful distance from sculptures and livestock; follow signage to avoid trampling vegetation.
Closed-toe riding or hiking shoes
Provides stability in stirrups and traction on muddy trail-surface.
Light waterproof jacket
Protects against sudden coastal showers and cool winds during shoulder seasons.
spring
Wide-brim hat and sunscreen
Sun protection for exposed vineyard and trail sections during summer.
summer
Small daypack
Holds water bottle, camera, and layers between the ride and the wine-tasting stop.