Twin Coast Adventure | Horse Riding Holidays New Zealand | Globetrotting

Twin Coast Adventure starring Amber Marshall, New Zealand

4 NightsIntermediate to AdvancedFrom $10,750 AUD

Discover some of New Zealand’s best kept secrets – think wild horses, honey-yellow beaches and ancient forests – on this North Island ride alongside Heartland star Amber Marshall.

The Twin Coast Adventure in the North Island of New Zealand (think Bay of Islands) is glowing with Globetrotting goodness – no wonder it’s on Amber Marshall’s bucket list!

For starters, there’s your host and guide, Jane, one of New Zealand’s top horse clinicians. Jane is immensely passionate about her patch of paradise and super keen to share it with Amber and the lucky globetrotters who’ll be riding alongside her.

Then there’s your mounts: naturally-trained, home-bred horses that are as brave and honest as the day is long. And as for the setting, you’ll skip, trot and canter across pristine beaches on both the east and west coasts of the North Island. You and your starstruck Globetrotting group will slide down butter-yellow sand dunes, trit-trot through native Kauri forests and splash through foaming waves. Plus you’ll sneak up on the herds of wild horses that live in the pine forests – a truly thrilling encounter.

Jane is lucky enough to have not one but two properties in this stunning region: her home farm, where you can get to know your horses both in the arena and on the trail, and her beachside property, where you’re just a hop, skip and a jump from some of New Zealand’s most beautiful stretches of coastline.

You won’t want to leave this pocket of untouched beauty where it’s just you, your horse and the beauty of Mother Nature. Oh, and Amber Marshall, your equestrian idol! Needless to say, this will be the ride of a lifetime.

Fast Facts

  • Horse Breed:A mix of Quarter Horses, Arabian and Tennessee Walking Horse crosses, Clydesdale-Thoroughbred crosses and warmbloods.
  • Pace:The pace varies from a walk right through to a canter when the terrain allows, with some long stretches of trotting and cantering along the coast.
  • Weight Limit:A maximum of 105kg / 230lbs *please contact us if you're above this weight for a further assessment.
  • Type of tack:Both English and Western tack is used.
  • Time in Saddle:On average, 4 to 6 hours daily.
  • Riding Ability:Intermediate to advanced. All riders MUST be confident riding outside an arena. Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out.
  • Accommodation:Comfortable twin share cabins with all linen provided and shared shower and toilet facilities.
  • Ride Length:5 days, 4 nights, with 4 and a half days of riding and half a day of sightseeing in the Far North of the North Island.
  • Inclusions:

    Twin share accommodation, riding, meals, transfers throughout the ride, and transfers to and from Paihia on days 1 and 5.

  • Exclusions:

    International and regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol (BYO is welcome), or airport transfers.

 

DEPARTURE DATES & RATES

SHOW ALL NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

The price includes twin share accommodation, riding, meals, transfers throughout the ride, and transfers to and from Paihia on days 1 and 5.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

The price does not include international or regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol (BYO is welcome), or airport transfers.

PLEASE NOTE:
– Specific security and content requirements apply to participate in this ride.
– Rescheduling or cancellation on short notice may occur, and there are limited refund rights, so comprehensive travel insurance and fully flexible travel and accommodation bookings are essential.

Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. Depending on the ride you choose to book and your country of residence, there will be a 1.2% to 2.9% surcharge.

Click HERE to read more about our fees and charges.
Click HERE to read our recommendations on which cards are best to use to avoid international transaction fees.
WHY IS THE PRICE QUOTED IN AUD?
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.

Itinerary

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*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.

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  • Day 1

    It’s finally happening! Today you get to say ‘Kia Ora’ to not only the guides and horses who will take you along the North Island’s spectacular coastline, but also Amber Marshall! PINCH me now!!

    This morning your guide, Jane, will pick you up in Paihia and bring you to her property, where you will meet up with Amber and the team and break the ice over morning tea. You’ll then be introduced to Jane’s superb string of horses and be paired with your equine partner for the week.

    To help you get to know each other in a fun and stress-free environment, you’ll have a welcome session in the arena, where you’ll do some groundwork followed by some ridden obstacle challenges and a few games. Then Jane will take you on a ride through spectacular native bush, along an historic road cut by British soldiers during the Maori Wars, and finally to some awe-inspiring, massive, ancient Kauri trees (prepare to be impressed, globetrotters).

    Coming back to the farm, you’ll have a late lunch, then pack up and head to the beach. You’ll be driving up the scenic east coast, and grabbing a tasty snack en route. Finally, you’ll reach the cabins at Jane’s spectacular beachside property, which you’ll call home for the remainder of your trip.

  • Day 2

    This morning you get to rest your riding muscles and enjoy the best of the local sightseeing. While we can’t give you any specifics, we guarantee you’ll enjoy every moment! Or, if you prefer, you can sleep in and spend the morning on the beach with a good book.

    Later, you’ll mount up and ride out with Amber, Jane and your fellow globetrotters to the beach. Here, you and your forward-moving horse will walk, trot and canter over the gorgeous sand while absorbing the sight of the breathtaking, sprawling sand dunes. Jane will time the ride so that the tides allow you to swim the horses bareback in the ocean, if you’d like! It’s a glorious ride of windswept canters and playing in the salty waves. If the tides work in your favour (fingers crossed), you’ll get to enjoy a moonlight ride.

  • Day 3

    Today brings the first of your wild horse rides – after another filling breakfast alongside your Heartland hero, of course. Trucking the horses to the west coast, you’ll ride through forestry, tussocks, sand dunes, and the beach, stalking herds of wild horses en route. Oh, and the BEST part: not a gate to be seen! With lunches packed in your saddle bags, you get to enjoy a full day in the saddle. You’ll stop at a waterhole for lunch, hopefully observing wild horses interacting with each other nearby.

    Today’s ride is jam-packed full of SO MANY highlights: lovely long canters up and down the beach, sand dune riding (it’s exhilarating, let me assure you) and tiptoeing through ancient forests laden with ferns.

  • Day 4

    After a well-earned night’s rest, you’ll wake up at Jane’s beachside property, regroup over brekkie and do it all over again! Yep, you’ve got another day out on the west coast with Amber – more wild horses to be spotted, breathtaking scenery to be absorbed and secrets waiting to be discovered. Rest assured there is so much country on offer, you won’t ride the same trail twice. Jane will colour the ride with historical stories while pointing out native flora and fauna.

    In the evening, you’ll return to your cabins to enjoy a hearty dinner and recap the day’s highlights.

  • Day 5

    Your last day in the beautiful Bay of Islands with beautiful Amber (sob!). But it’s an absolute cracker: after breakfast you’ll load up the horse truck and head out for a stunning ride on a coastal farm. The owners, who have tended this land for generations, are opening their farm exclusively to your Globetrotting group, and it won’t be long before you realise what a privilege this is. The property offers incredible views, with the coastline varying from dramatic rocky outcrops forged by ancient lava flows to otherworldly pink sandy beaches.

    Finally, you and your fellow globetrotters will say a fond farewell to Amber, Jane, the team and the horses, and be transferred back to your accommodation in Paihia. You’ll arrive with enough time to spend the evening exploring town and grabbing a tasty dinner (at your own expense).

  • Transfer Information

    Transfers to and from your Paihia accommodation are included in the price (on day one and day five). To avoid travel delays, we ask that all guests arrive and stay in Paihia (at your own expense) the night before the ride begins, so you’re ready for collection between 9 – 9:30am on day one.

    On day five, please book an extra night’s accommodation in Paihia so that the group isn’t rushed getting back to town that evening. You can fly out the following day.

    All transport during the five days of the ride is provided.

    There are four regional flights from Auckland Domestic Airport to Kerikeri Airport daily. Otherwise you can hire a car in Auckland and drive to Paihia, which is approximately a 4.5 hour drive.

    If you’re flying into Kerikeri, we recommend booking a transfer to your accommodation in Paihia through Kerikeri Taxis – www.kerikeritaxis.co.nz. They charge approximately $80 NZD one way for up to 3 people (inclusive, not per person).

    **Please note that if you’re flying into Auckland International Airport, give yourself a three-hour buffer to clear customs {especially with horse riding equipment – helmets, chaps} before your regional flight.

  • Amber Marshall

    Amber Marshall is a Canadian actress best known for her portrayal of Amy Fleming on the beloved family drama series ‘Heartland.’ Born and raised in Ontario, Amber’s passion for acting and animals blossomed at an early age. Having learnt to ride as a toddler, she is a horsewoman through and through – both in character on Heartland and at home on her ranch in Alberta.

    18 years ago, when Amber landed the role of Amy Fleming on Heartland at age 18, she embarked on a journey that would forever intertwine her love of acting and horses. The series, filmed in the foothills of the Rockies in Alberta, allowed her to fully immerse in the Western lifestyle. Over the years, Amber’s involvement in Heartland deepened, and she eventually took on the role of Consulting Producer, contributing to the creative process behind the scenes.

    Today, Amber lives her dream, blending her love for acting and horses in her iconic role on Heartland. Off-screen, she and her husband Shawn live on a ranch outside of Calgary, where they care for their beloved horses and a menagerie of farm animals, embodying the Western lifestyle that they’ve always loved.

    AMBER’S CHOSEN CHARITIES
    Amber has chosen to donate the funds raised from this Twin Coast Adventure to local wildlife and animal rescue charities in the Bay of Islands region that you’ll be exploring together. This includes charities that work with horses, as well as other domestic animals and New Zealand’s unique native species.

What our valued Globetrotters say about The Twin Coast Adventure

Twin Coast Adventure, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays.

GILLIAN YOUNG

‘Even as an experienced rider, I have confidence issues on new horses, and I wasn’t sure how my body would handle long hours in the saddle. This was the perfect ride for me to discover that, yes, I could do it, and I had no reason to be nervous on my lovely horse, Cilla. The ride was just beautiful. Well paced with friendly and fun staff, fantastic food each day and cuddly dogs at the cabin. I just enjoyed myself the entire time. I will recommend this ride to anyone looking to do a long horse trek.’

Twin Coast Adventure, New Zealand, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays

Sally Lawson

‘Wow, I can’t believe I finally fulfilled a lifelong dream of mine – going on a riding trek holiday! Even though I’ve been caught up with kids and businesses, I finally took the plunge and booked this trip. My husband even learned how to ride just to come with me! I chose this particular trek because it looked challenging, but I knew we’d be in good hands under Jane and her team’s expert guidance. And boy, did it deliver! The terrain was tough but exhilarating, and the scenery was simply breathtaking – we even saw wild horses running through the woodlands! Plus, the group of fellow adventure and horse enthusiasts made us feel right at home. Honestly, this trip was life-changing, and we’re already planning our next globetrotting adventure. It’s amazing to see how much the world has to offer, and we’re grateful to be a part of such a fantastic organization. My husband is now completely horse-obsessed, and we’re kicking ourselves for not doing this sooner. But hey, better late than never, right? We can’t wait to see where our next trips take us!’

Twin Coast Adventure, New Zealand, Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Kelsey Ivey

‘The Twin Coast Ride in New Zealand changed everything for me. It was my first horse riding holiday, booked on a whim to be more adventurous, and it awakened a desire in me to see more of the world on horseback. The experience was absolutely perfect. The scenery might as well have been pulled straight from a storybook, with green rolling hills and sunny blue water beaches. My horse, Izzy, was sure-footed and kind and I had full confidence in her to carry me to new parts of the world every day. I even learned how to swim on a horse for the first time! Most of all, I feel like I got a masterclass in horsemanship, thanks to Jane, our guide Gabbie, and the other riders who became friends. Our days were full of magical scenery, wild horses, and blissful long canters, while our nights were full of amazing food and belly laughs with friends around the table. I had the BEST time, and honestly did not want to leave. This trip is perfect for anyone like me who might be travelling solo, adventuring off on their first riding holiday, or who wants a refreshing, fun, gorgeous vacation.’

The Twin Coast Adventure, New Zealand, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays

Charlotte Beresford

‘I absolutely loved the Twin Coast Ride, it surpassed all my high expectations. We were so well looked after and were always made to feel safe, happy, comfortable and well-fed! The scenery and terrain are just breathtaking and so varied. You ride through challenging bush, on gentle farmland, along atmospheric forest tracks, climb up and down glittering sand dunes, wade through deep lakes, then long, exhilarating beach canters and swim bareback in the sea. Just wow. And then, of course, there was my horse, Rocky. I totally fell in love with him. Riding such a big, beautiful, strong, fast, kind, and responsive horse was an incredible privilege. I couldn’t stop crying when I said goodbye to him – the ultimate dream horse. I would recommend this ride to any horse lover. I would return tomorrow if I could!’

Anne Spires

‘The scenery each day is so varied and stunning. The horses were exceptionally trained and such a companionable herd. I rode Beautiful honey, so responsive, gentle, super fit and willing . Marvellous guides, exciting adventures each day, gourmet food, wonderful new friends, the list goes on…Just magic!’

Twin Coast Adventure, New Zealand, Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Kim Boast

‘On beautifully educated, super fit, forward-moving horses, we rode the endless beaches with not a soul in sight. Sand dunes that go for miles, endless pine forests, farmland with stunning ocean views – this ride has it all! Our guide Jane was an absolute legend with so much knowledge and patience, and Laura was super helpful. I rode Paula and Izzy, and both were beautiful to ride. I’ve never ridden a gaited horse before – I LOVED them and their ambling! The best riding experience I’ve ever had!’

Twin Coast Adventure, North Island, New Zealand - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Tanya Limbrick

‘An amazing experience with a beautiful group of people. Jane, Lorah and Gary were wonderful hosts, friendly and knowledgeable, and great horse people. I was lucky to be teamed with the beautiful Rocky, who was my perfect match: willing, forward-moving, and a lovely kind soul. The Northland is a beautiful and unusual environment; we cantered along deserted beaches, rode through whisper-quiet pine forests and slithered across incredible sand dunes. The trip to Cape Reinga was a highlight, especially surfing down the giant sand dunes at Te Paki! We were fortunate to see bands of wild horses, and the stallions guarding their mares were just majestic. At the end of each day we returned to great food, hot showers, comfy cabins and great company. I absolutely recommend this ride!’

Twin Coast Adventure, New Zealand - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Jane Thompson

‘If you want to see the most amazing, diverse scenery, wild horses, AND ride on both the east & west coast of New Zealand, then do not miss the Twin Coast Adventure. After two false starts (thanks to Covid), I managed to complete this fabulous ride in early December. I rode the paint mare, Cilla, and had a great time on her! She was especially fun to canter on the beach. Our guides were very knowledgeable about their horses and environment. We were blessed with beautiful weather as well, which topped off a fun few days.’

The Twin Coast Adventure, North Island, New Zealand - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Alana Rowley

‘The Twin Coast Adventure was my first Globetrotting experience and what can I say… WOW. We really got to see it all. We rode over a myriad of terrains, cantered on pristine beaches on both the east and west coast of New Zealand, meandered through bush and forests, saw wild horses, made our way across and over stunning sand dunes and swam bareback in the ocean. We got to do some sightseeing (Cape Reinga) and had the opportunity to go sand boarding. I was matched with the most stunningly unique, beautifully natured and safe horse – Lizzy! The accommodation was lovely and our guides were knowledgeable, patient and helpful. I have absolutely no regrets, other than that I didn’t book this ride sooner!’

STORIES FROM THE SADDLE

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