Take an advanced horseback ride across Northland’s coastal hills with Sandy Bay Horse Trekking. Enjoy dramatic ocean views before reaching a private Pohutukawa-fringed beach—an ideal escape for confident riders.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
expert
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Riders should be fit and comfortable managing horses on rough, variable terrain including steep hills.
Wildlife
History
The Pohutukawa tree is known as New Zealand’s 'Christmas tree' and holds significant cultural value for Māori, symbolizing strength and protection along the coast.
Conservation
Sandy Bay Horse Trekking supports low-impact tourism to protect Northland’s fragile coastal ecology and maintains trail sustainability by limiting group sizes.
Sandy Bay Horse Trekking
Take an advanced horseback ride across Northland’s coastal hills with Sandy Bay Horse Trekking. Enjoy dramatic ocean views before reaching a private Pohutukawa-fringed beach—an ideal escape for confident riders.
Sandy Bay Horse Trekking is a horseback-riding operator based in Matapouri, Northland. The operation offers guided coastal and bush rides that showcase secluded beaches, native bush, hills, streams and ocean panoramas. Trips include a seasonal Calm Bay Ocean Swim (2.5 hours) that takes experienced riders to a private bay for a swim with their horse from December to May; an Ocean Panorama to Beach Private Ride (two hours), an exclusive coastal hill ride guided by an expert that finishes at a secluded Pohutukawa-framed beach for advanced riders; and the Tuna Trail Journey (1.5 hour), an energetic trail through native bush, hills and stream crossings suitable for confident beginners with at least ten prior rides.
Sandy Bay Horse Trekking focuses on small, private experiences that suit riders who meet each trip’s stated ability and fitness requirements. The business emphasises clear trip descriptions and rider prerequisites so guests can choose the appropriate experience. Operating from Matapouri in Northland, the company offers unique local scenery — coastal views, native bush, long fin eels in streams, and sheltered bays — that form the core of each ride. Booking information, seasonal availability for the Calm Bay Ocean Swim, and trip durations are provided for each advertised ride to help guests plan. All promotional material and trip summaries specify rider skill and fitness levels to promote safe, enjoyable experiences for participants and horses alike. Trip lengths vary from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, and riders choose trips that match their experience, fitness, and scenic preferences and time.
Location
Matapouri, Northland
Coastal base in Northland, New Zealand
Trip Lengths
1.5–2.5 hrs
Choose rides by time and fitness
Rider Level
Confident to Advanced
Clear experience requirements stated
Tours Offered
3 Rides
Beach swim, panorama, and trail
Select the right ride for skill and fitness — Calm Bay swims run seasonally from December to May. Book based on trip duration and rider level.
Advanced Riding Skills Required
This ride demands confidence handling horses on steep, narrow coastal tracks. Only experienced riders should book.
Wear Closed-Toe Footwear
Sturdy boots or riding shoes are required for safety on uneven trail terrain and mounting/dismounting.
Prepare for Variable Weather
Northland weather can change quickly; bring layers and waterproof gear especially outside summer months.
Sun Protection is a Must
UV rays near the coast are strong—pack sunscreen and sunglasses even for shorter rides.
Riding boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes
Protects feet and provides grip while riding and on uneven trail surfaces.
Long pants
Prevents chafing and insect bites during the ride.
Sun protection (sunscreen and sunglasses)
Critical for guarding against harsh UV rays near the coast.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Essential for sudden coastal showers and wind protection.
spring|fall|winter