Meet the Horses of Minaret Station

In a remote alpine valley, where it is soft, steady, and deeply rooted in place. A world apart, where stillness speaks, and the land invites you to move gently through it. Here, horse riding becomes more than just a way to travel. It becomes a way to belong. This is Minaret Station. 

The horses of Minaret Station are part of the land's living story. As summer unfolds across the Southern Alps, they guide guests through a landscape shaped by time, tracing historic stock routes, stepping through sunlit river flats, and climbing into basins that open like quiet secrets. To ride here is to experience New Zealand’s high country in its purest form.

Each horse on the station has a personality all its own. Carefully chosen and raised to handle the alpine terrain, they bring calm, character, and comfort to every journey.

Harry - Solid bay with white blaze

Sam - Solid black

Willow - Paint

Harry is all heart and energy. He’s the guide’s horse, always out front, ears flicking forward, eyes on the next bend in the trail. He loves to lead and does it well, full of spirit but always tuned in. There’s a spark to him, a sense that he was born to move across this kind of country.

Sam is the quiet thinker. Sensitive and shy, he stands back at first, but there’s a steadiness in him that guests trust instinctively. He’s patient with new riders, gentle under saddle, and always aware of what’s happening around him. There’s a softness in the way he moves, like he’s thinking a few steps ahead.

Willow is the only mare, and she carries that title with pride. She’s smart and knows her worth, walking with a little extra swing in her step. She’s got a bit of sass, the kind that makes you laugh and shake your head, but beneath it is a brave, clever horse who knows the track like the back of her hoof.

Dude, older and calm, brings a sense of quiet authority. He’s the kind of horse that makes you breathe a little deeper the moment you swing into the saddle. Confident, composed, and endlessly reliable, he’s seen more of this land than most and carries it with him in every stride.

And then there’s Ringo, his full brother, a year older and somehow even gentler. Ringo is the soul horse, the one that seems to understand without words. There’s something about the way he looks at you, the way he waits, steady and open, that stays with people long after the ride ends.

Together, these horses form a team that is woven into the fabric of life at Minaret Station. They are not performers or props. They are partners. They move through the same landscapes our guides know intimately, along tracks once carved by generations of stockmen. With every ride, they bring a sense of calm, trust, and connection to those who travel with them.

To ride at Minaret is to move with the rhythm of the land. The horses lead, and we follow, not just across the landscape, but into the story of a place where stillness is powerful and every hoofbeat has its place.

Key Takeaways

1. Each horse at Minaret Station has a unique personality and plays a meaningful role in shaping the guest experience — from Sam’s gentle nature to Willow’s sass and Ringo’s soulful calm, they are more than mounts, they are trusted companions.

2. Horse riding at Minaret is deeply connected to the landscape and heritage of the high country. It offers guests a rare opportunity to explore a remote alpine environment in the most timeless way — slowly, quietly, and in harmony with the land.

3. These horses are the heartbeat of station life. They carry stories, traditions, and guests through some of New Zealand’s most untouched wilderness, creating a powerful sense of connection between people, animals, and place.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. Do I need prior horse riding experience to join a ride at Minaret Station?

  Yes, some horse riding experience is required. Our rides take guests across remote, alpine terrain, so being comfortable in the saddle and confident with basic riding skills ensures both safety and enjoyment. If you're unsure whether it's suitable for your level, feel free to reach out — our team is happy to guide you.

• 2. What is the best time of year for horse riding at Minaret Station?

  Horse riding is offered during the warmer months, typically from October through April, when the trails are drier, the alpine meadows are vibrant, and the weather is ideal for exploring the high country on horseback.

• 3. How long are the horse rides, and where do they go?

  Our rides can be tailored in length and route, ranging from short scenic outings to longer explorations across the station. Trails may include river flats, tussock-covered hills, and ridge lines with panoramic views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks.

• 4. What should I wear for the ride?

  We recommend long pants, closed-toe shoes or boots, and layers suitable for mountain conditions. Helmets are provided and required for all riders.

• 5. Can children participate in horse riding at Minaret Station?

  Yes, we welcome younger riders. Our team will assess suitability based on age, size, and confidence levels to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for every guest.

• 6. Are the horses well-trained and looked after?

  Absolutely. Our horses are part of the Minaret Station family. Each is carefully selected and trained for both temperament and ability, and they are well cared for by our experienced team. You’ll quickly see they are as much a part of the experience as the landscapes you’ll ride through.