Cape Farewell Horse Treks

Pamela Forbes is convinced that she’s living in one of the country’s best regions, but just in case she happened to forget, visiting horse enthusiasts remind her daily. “You’re so lucky,” they say, as the horses beneath them clip-clop across white-sand beaches on the edge of Farewell Spit, around mine shafts and gold-mining relics, or through Pamela’s dairy farm and private native bush. “Golden Bay is diverse. We have national parks, beautiful swimming beaches, the spit – it’s all here on our doorstep.” Hearing how beautiful the visitors find the surroundings is music to Pamela’s ears – and has been since she and husband James purchased Cape Farewell Horse Treks three years ago. Their dairy farm was adjacent to the horse-trekking business and they’d come to know and love the horses. When the business was for sale, they couldn’t bear to see anyone else look after them. The 26 horses all have big personalities and Pamela and James say there is one to match every riding ability. No experience necessary. Advance bookings are recommended during the peak summer periods, but outside summer, a phone call the night before should be fine. 23 McGowan Street, Puponga. (03) 524 8031, horsetreksnz.co.nz