To make your experience seamless, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions. Whether you’re just curious about our packages or just need some guidance, you’ll find valuable information here. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to us.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I make a booking enquiry?
Paddocks to Peaks does not run seven days a week all summer long, we allocate package rides to provide small bespoke private package rides. Ensuring you receive privacy and an intimate experience for yourselves in the valley.
To book please contact Paddock to peaks directly paddocktopeaks.co.nz with you package option or any individual requirements. Include number of riders, preferred dates, weights of riders and your age.
Paddock to Peaks will reply to your email query with the dates available, pricing information on the riding package options and a Conformation form for your chosen package ride.
Each rider is required to fill out their own form.
Once we have received your forms back , Paddock to Peaks will forward bank account details requiring a 50% deposit to secure your package ride. Conformation of your package ride choice will be sent to you once the deposit has been received by Paddock to Peaks.
How do I pay?
Once Paddocks to Peaks has received your booking enquiry, you will then receive an email confirming the dates available we will endeavour to do our very best to work in with your requirements.
On conformation of the package ride dates, you will receive an email with Paddocks to Peaks banking details, payment is required in full 45 days prior to your departure package ride.
We accept online payments and credit cards.
Should you look to book a package ride with Paddocks to Peaks spontaneously we require full payment upon confirmation of your booking subject to availability.
We are small and bespoke company providing a private space for you to relax and unwind; we will always be open and try our very best for you regarding impromptu decision-making package rides and or individual requests, please just ask! Life changes and we do understand that!
What riding experience do I need to have?
We do cater for beginners; however, it pays to keep in mind that we ride on a high-country station tracks and trails, just being outside in New Zealand’s natural environment you will want to ensure you have a good level of confidence. If you are a beginner rider the ride will be taken at the pace and discretion of your guide to ensure your safety.
Intermediate and experienced riders can walk , trot and canter on trails and have a well-adjusted seat. The ride will be taken at the pace and discretion of your guide to ensure your safety.
Your guide will always take into consideration your level of comfort and confidence, weather, and track conditions prior to changing the pace of the ride from walk trot to canter. We will chat away with you along the way to gauge the rides pace!
What do I need to bring with me?
- Comfortable riding trousers or tights, sound boots preferably with a small heel, tramping boots are a good option as long as they do not go high up your ankle as you need good flexion here when your seated in the saddle
- Layer warm clothing- short sleeve shirt, a warm mid base layer to go over that then a warmer top layer and a water proof jacket
- Sunglasses, 30 plus sun cream
- Camera/phone – cameras can be little tricky to operate while riding but can be taken and used on the stops provided.
- Medication for any medical conditions
- Water Bottle
- Paddocks to Peaks will also have at the woolshed base waterproof leggings, jackets and sunscreen if required.
What is the minimum age for a rider?
14 years of age is the youngest Paddocks to Peaks rider
Why is a weight limit of 95 kgs for riders required?
The weight limit is in place to keep Paddocks to Peaks in line with the current standard set by the tourism industry for the overall safety and welfare of horses. Our team of horses well being is the main key to a happy and healthy horse!
What Is The Package Ride Cancellation Policy?
Cancellation of package ride booking requires notice prior to your booking date for a 100% refund.
Cancellation of the package ride booking requires 30 days’ notice prior to your booking date for a 50% refund.
There is no refund if you choose to cancel your pre booked package ride within 29 days prior to your booking date.
Our Reasoning for this?
The package rides are exclusive and intimate catering for your individual needs and requirements, this requires careful pre planning of allocation dates, horses, food, and accommodation and also takes consideration the Lees Valley Stations seasonal stock management plan.
Unfortunately, Paddock to Peaks must absorbed some of those external expenses due to the pre planning of your package ride.
Is There A Helicopter Weight Limit?
Day guest weight limit: 10kg for hand luggage.
Overnight weight limit for the hunting package: Helicopter weight limit 520kg this includes passengers weight and hunting equipment and gear.
Maximum weight per passenger for four passengers is 110kg.
We recommend a maximum of four passengers only for the hunting package due to the weight limits of the helicopter.