THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a weekend at Lake Hayes learning pony prep, tacking, and ring routines, then test your skills on show day—finishing with a signature lake swim. Perfect for first-time show riders and families visiting Queenstown who want a low-frills, full-immersion experience.
Spend a weekend at Lake Hayes learning pony prep, tacking, and ring routines, then test your skills on show day—finishing with a signature lake swim. Perfect for first-time show riders and families visiting Queenstown who want a low-frills, full-immersion experience.
Book with A M Equestrian
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by A M Equestrian · Queenstown, Otago
Lake Hayes Show Camp hooks you straight into the heart of Queenstown’s summer equestrian scene. Set at Lake Hayes in Otago, New Zealand, this overnight show camp gathers riders for pony prep, coached warm-ups, a communal potluck, and a full show day that ends with a cooling lake swim. It’s a practical, hands-on weekend for newcomers and experienced juniors who want to experience show life without the logistics headache.
Arrival is 9 a.m. on Friday and participants spend the afternoon in group Q&A and lessons before moving into pony prep and camp setup. Volunteers and staff lead sessions on tacking, warm-up routines, grooming, and safe handling; riders practice sweaty, focused drills then shift gears to relaxed campsite rhythms—pitching tents, sharing a potluck dinner, and swapping tack tips by headlamp. Staying on-site removes the pre-show rush and lets young riders get a full night’s rest before a very early start.
Saturday is show day in miniature: a pre-dawn wake, loaded ponies, and a breakfast-on-the-go as teams transfer to the ring. Volunteers help with show entries and ring etiquette, parents take an active role in feeding and hydrating riders, and coaches shepherd warm-up runs. The day is organized to support first-time show competitors—staff assist with entries and ring prep—while still giving more experienced riders time to polish their performance.
What makes this camp stand out is its setting and community rhythm. Lake Hayes is a shallow, clear lake with willow-lined shorelines and open views to nearby hills and alpine ridgelines; the customary post-show plunge with ponies into cool lake water is as much local rite as reward. The weekend doubles as a micro-community: kids learn riding fundamentals, tack care, and show manners while parents trade knowledge and gear. The program accepts riders who bring their own horses or who use provided ponies, and staff will advise on feed, shoeing, and tack fit.
Practical notes: the run is Friday 9am to Saturday 5pm, riders must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and bookings are non-refundable. Pack warm and waterproof layers, closed-toe footwear, riding clothes, swimwear, a tent and sleeping kit, tack and feed if bringing your own equine. The organizers will assist with entry forms but show entry fees are separate. For families visiting Queenstown who want an authentic, low-frills introduction to show life, this is an efficient, supportive weekend that puts horses—and the lake—at the center of the experience.
Riders must wear long pants and tops that cover their shoulders while mounted, and closed-toe footwear is required. If you bring your own horse, ensure it is fit, freshly shod or trimmed, and up to date on worming. Spaces are limited—book early and be prepared for an action-packed, hands-on weekend, and fun.
moderate.
1–2 days.
Moderate: riders should be comfortable handling ponies for several hours, plus basic camping stamina.
Yes—riders may bring their own horses; bring feed, multiple rugs, spare tack and ensure your horse is fit and up to date on care.
No—the camp supports first-time show riders with coached warm-ups and entry assistance so novices can make their debut.
Not required, but campers who stay on-site are better prepared for the early Saturday start and reduced morning stress.
No—show entry fees are separate, though staff will help you complete entry forms if needed.
Riders must wear long pants, a top that covers the shoulders, and closed-toe sturdy footwear while mounted.
Bookings are non-refundable; confirm availability and readiness before completing registration.
Lake Hayes Show is a local community agricultural event that brings regional riders and families together during Queenstown’s summer season.
Minimize impacts by keeping hay and feed contained to prevent weed spread, pack out rubbish, and avoid washing tack or horses directly in the lake to protect water quality.
A M Equestrian is a Queenstown, Otago equestrian centre offering a range of riding experiences, coaching clinics and facility hire designed for riders of all ages and abilities. Located minutes from central Queenstown with views of the Remarkable mountain range and access to the Shotover River trails, A M Equestrian runs tailored rides, small-group lessons and family-friendly pony sessions. Offerings include 1 Hour Riding Lessons with expert coaches, Groom & Ride sessions, Junior Groom & Ride for children aged 2–8, and specialty events such as Horse Hire for Recycled Ribbon Day and the Recycled Ribbon Showjump Series on July 19, August 16 and September 27. The venue operates a fully fenced arena surfaced with premium rubber chip and equipped with Jump 4 Joy show jumps and an equine obstacle course available through Arena Hire. Coaching programs include the Russell Higgins Success Series — three consecutive clinics focused on progressive horsemanship skills across multiple two-day sessions. Guided Shotover River Trails rides showcase local scenery while accommodating a range of skill levels with well-trained horses and enthusiastic guides. Sessions emphasize horse welfare and rider education; guests learn grooming, saddling and ground skills before riding. A M Equestrian prioritizes safety and a positive learning environment through small group sizes, experienced coaching staff and well-maintained horses and equipment. Clear booking information, scheduled series dates and dedicated facility hire options make A M Equestrian a practical choice for families, beginners and competitive riders seeking quality riding experiences near Queenstown. Accessible booking and clear safety procedures.
Book with A M Equestrian