Discover Golden Bay on Horseback with North West Horse Treks

Imagine setting out on horseback along the wild coast of New Zealand’s north‑western tip, the salty breeze in your hair, the roar of the Tasman Sea beside you, and rugged dunes and native bush all around. That’s precisely the kind of adventure the family‑run North West Horse Treks offers, nestled near the iconic Wharariki Beach at Pūponga in Golden Bay.

What to expect

At North West Horse Treks you’ll meet well‑trained horses and guides who cater to all levels, from complete beginners to confident riders, so you don’t need to be an equestrian expert to join in. The rides are immersive: you’ll traverse rolling farmland, native bush, high dunes, rugged coastline, and often end up at secluded beaches, all within one single experience.

For example:

  • A 3.5‑hour trek to Wharariki Beach that passes dramatic rock formations and sand dunes.
  • A 4‑hour “Greenhills” ride through farmland and bush then finishing on a hidden beach.
  • A shorter 1.5‑hour beach ride suitable for all abilities.
Riders on horseback trekking along Wharariki Beach under a clear blue sky with Archway Islands in the background, near Station House Motel in Golden Bay, New Zealand.
A perfect day of horse trekking at Wharariki Beach with North West Horse Treks, just 20 minutes from Station House Motel in Golden Bay, New Zealand.

Tips for booking and enjoying the ride

  • Reserve early: These rides are popular and often operate around tidal times and weather, so it’s wise to book ahead.
  • What to wear: Closed‑toe shoes, long pants (to avoid brushing against saddle or stirrup), and a jacket are recommended, Golden Bay weather can change quickly.
  • Arrive prepared: Bring a camera (or smartphone) for the scenery, and maybe a small backpack for water.
  • Check your fitness level and rider ability: Although the horses and guides are very experienced, choose the trek length that suits your comfort level.
  • Time your photography: Early morning or late afternoon light is gorgeous along the coast, so if you can pick a ride around those times you’ll get fantastic photos.
  • Pair it with your stay at the Station House Motel: Consider scheduling your ride mid‑week or near departure day to maximise your time in Collingwood before or after the trek.

Your Base: Station House Motel, Collingwood, Comfort, Character & Convenience

When booking a stay in Golden Bay, the Station House Motel offers a welcome blend of historic character, friendly family‑run ambience, and superb location in Collingwood.

Location & accessibility

  • Address: 7 Elizabeth Street, Collingwood.
  • Situated in the heart of Collingwood village, easy walk to cafés, shops, beach and the departure point for many regional activities.
  • Free parking, self‑contained units, plenty of comfort.

Why this accommodation works for your Golden Bay adventure

  • Comfort after the ride: After your trek with North West Horse Treks, you’ll want a comfortable place to relax. The Station House offers just that, garden setting, tranquil rooms and a local village feel.
  • Ideal location for exploring: Collingwood is a superb hub: stay here and you’re a short drive from Wharariki Beach, the Aorere Valley, and the start point of your horse‑trek ride.
  • Value & character: Rather than a big impersonal resort, you’ll find historic charm (the motel is part of a heritage building), personal service, and a base that feels like home.
  • Family‑friendly amenities: If you’re travelling with children, the on‑site play area and garden setting at the cottages make the Station House a very family‑friendly choice.

Suggestions for your stay

  • Stay at least two nights, so you can fit in your horse ride plus relaxed exploration of Golden Bay (e.g., Wharariki Beach, The Langford Store, The Courthouse Cafe and The Collingwood Tavern).
  • Evening meals: After your adventure, indulge in a local meal in Collingwood village,ask your hosts for their favourite.
  • Combine activity & relaxation: Do the horse trek in the morning (when the light is good and you wake fresh), then return for an afternoon nap, garden time or stroll.
View from horseback along a gravel farm road with green pastures and rugged cliffs in the background, near Wharariki Beach and Station House Motel in Golden Bay, New Zealand.
Trail riding through stunning rural landscapes with North West Horse Treks, just a short ride from Wharariki Beach.
Horseback riders enjoying a scenic trek along Wharariki Beach with rocky sea stacks in the background, with North West Horse Treks, near Station House Motel in Golden Bay, New Zealand.
Horseback riding on the wild and beautiful Wharariki Beach with North West Horse Treks.

Final Thoughts

For travellers staying in Golden Bay, pairing a stay at the Station House Motel in Collingwood with an unforgettable ride from North West Horse Treks is a brilliant way to experience the region in full. You’ll have the comfort of a well‑situated, historic, family‑run accommodation base plus the thrill of exploring the wild coast of Golden Bay on horseback.

Whether you’re visiting as a couple seeking nature and serenity, or with family craving active adventure plus downtime in a relaxed setting, this combination offers both story and sanctuary. The sweeping landscapes of Wharariki Beach, the rolling farmland and native bush of the region, the welcoming hosts at your motel, and the sound of horse hooves on sand all come together to create a holiday you’ll remember.

Book early, pack sensibly, and get ready to saddle up for one of Golden Bay’s standout experiences. Your stay at the Station House Motel will be more than just a place to sleep, it becomes your gateway to the coast, the wild horses, and the magic of this corner of New Zealand.

For more information please visit North West Horse Trek website by clicking here.

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