Adventure Collective
Discover Matakana: Scenic Horseback Riding and Sculptureum Art Tour Near Auckland - Auckland

Discover Matakana: Scenic Horseback Riding and Sculptureum Art Tour Near Auckland

Aucklandmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good health with basic horseback riding skills or willingness to learn; some walking on varied terrain is included.

Overview

Explore the rolling farmlands and vibrant art scene of Matakana with an 8-hour private tour combining scenic horseback riding and the extraordinary Sculptureum gallery. Perfect for those craving countryside calm and cultural richness just outside Auckland.

Auckland, Auckland

Private Tour: Matakana Art & Horse Riding Experience

All Ages • 8 Hours

Food Tour
Guided Tour
Self-Guided Tour
Walking Tour

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About This Adventure

Embark on a unique 8-hour adventure through Matakana, combining scenic horse riding across picturesque farmland with art exploration at the Sculptureum. Enjoy gourmet dining with local wines, handcrafted chocolates, and a delightful gelato treat. This immersive experience is perfect for art lovers and food enthusiasts seeking a memorable countryside escape from Auckland.

A fun-filled scenic horse riding experience, you will ride along the pristine farm land, enjoying the native birds you encounter.

Tour Duration

8 hours

Tour Summary

Experience a private countryside escape from Auckland with this scenic day tour through the Matakana region, combining relaxed horse riding, art, food, and wine in one unforgettable journey. Travel in a comfortable luxury vehicle and soak in views of rolling hills, riverside towns, and rural charm. Enjoy a peaceful horseback ride through open farmland with breathtaking views, then explore the enchanting Sculptureum — an inspiring blend of art, nature, and creativity. Sample handcrafted artisan chocolates and traditional fudge at a boutique chocolate shop before sitting down to a gourmet lunch paired with boutique wine, harvested onsite at a local vineyard. Your day ends with a sweet treat — a scoop of rich Italian-style gelato, creamy ice cream, or refreshing sorbetto — the perfect finish to a Matakana experience designed for art lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking a unique horse-riding tour near Auckland.

Tour Highlights

  • Enjoy a scenic countryside drive from Auckland with panoramic views and photo stops.
  • Ride a horse through peaceful native forest and open farmland in rural Matakana.
  • Take in breathtaking coastal and country landscapes on a relaxing horse riding tour.
  • Discover over 800 outdoor sculptures along winding garden trails in a natural setting.
  • Explore six world-class art galleries at Sculptureum, where creativity meets nature.
  • Taste handcrafted chocolates and traditional fudge at a boutique chocolate shop.
  • Savour a gourmet lunch paired with boutique wine harvested from an onsite vineyard.
  • A perfect day for art lovers, foodies, and those seeking a unique horse riding experience near Auckland.

Journey Inclusions

  • Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland.
  • Pick up and drop off from Auckland.
  • Refreshments and water onboard.
  • Complimentary high-speed internet onboard.
  • English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.
  • Luxurious temperature-controlled private transportation in a minibus.
  • Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.
  • Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish.

Tour Inclusions

  • 1 hour horse riding in a scenic farmland.
  • All necessary safety equipment’s provided.
  • Self-guided walk at Sculptureum art galleries & sculpture gardens.
  • Wine Tasting and Lunch.
  • Handmade Chocolate Tasting.
  • Free delicious ice creams; rich gelato or sorbetto.

Tour Requirements

  • Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
  • Sandals, Scuffs or high heel footwear are not allowed.
  • Easy and good fitness level required.
  • This is a self-guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
  • All children ages 10 and under must always be accompanied by an adult.
  • Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as this is the perfect place to get some great travel photos
  • Horse Riding is not recommended if pregnant.
  • You must be at least 18 years of age and present a valid photo ID in order to consume alcohol.
  • Kindly advise the approximate height and weight of each rider at the time of booking.
  • Special dietary requirements catered for upon request, please advise at the time of booking.
  • Preferences and requests cannot be guaranteed. Special requests are subject to availability.

Adventure Tips

Bring weather-appropriate layers

Matakana’s weather can shift quickly; pack layers to stay comfortable during both horseback riding and outdoor gallery tours.

Wear sturdy shoes

While mounted, proper footwear with a slight heel is recommended; off horse, sturdy shoes help on uneven garden paths at Sculptureum.

Stay hydrated

Carry water with you as the tour covers multiple outdoor locations and can last up to 8 hours.

Book in advance

This private tour is popular and limited in capacity, so securing your spot early is advised.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Tui birds, native songbirds known for their distinct calls
  • Kowhai trees, attracting native birds and blooming vibrantly in spring

History

Matakana developed into a creative hub through efforts to preserve local farm heritage and promote artisan culture dating back to the early 20th century.

Conservation

The tour supports sustainable tourism initiatives focused on respecting farmland ecosystems and promoting local artisan producers.

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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Helmet

Essential

Essential for safe horseback riding throughout the tour.

Sun protection

Essential

Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against sun exposure during outdoor portions.

summer specific

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Needed for strolling around Sculptureum gardens and gallery spaces.

Light waterproof jacket

Useful for occasional showers during horseback riding and walking between sites.

spring specific