I have to write and tell you about a great horse trek that I've been on. Absolutely amazing. I've been riding horses for years and have done various horse treks but usually you get thrown up on some poor nag thats bored and has seen better days. I was very pleasently surprised when I booked in Mt. Lyford Horse Treks, in Mt. Lyford, North Canterbury, South Island, New Zealand. The horses were amazing, beautiful, wide awake and happy.

They base their training on Natural horsemanship, which is similiar to the methods used in horse whispering. We did a 'parternering up' session so we got to know our horse and they taught us about how horses think. Really really interesting. Then we went for this amazing 2 hour ride through the mountains. The horses were magic, the scenery and views absolutely amazing, and we went through river, lakes, and saw hawks, bison, buffolo, and had a wonderful time. I have to recommend it! Absolutely the highlight of my trip to New Zealand. What a perfect way to see the countryside. It cost us $80 for a parterning up session and 2 hour trek, and was worth every penny. Theres a lodge next door (mt Lyford lodge I think its called) where you can relax afterwards with a cool drink in the spa. Magic. Anyway, definitely one for the book!

If you're in CChurch, head up towards the hot pools / spas in Hanmer, then on to Mt LYford for a horse trek, stay in the lodge next door and relax in the spa, then head on up to do some whale watching in Kaikoura. This place is gorgeous, I'm not joking!!

Happy travelling,
:)Elaine.

www.lyfordtreks.co.nz

elaineh

Yeh thanx 4 that. Sounds a dream - I like horses alot - thing is they know I get nervous riding them and then they tend to want to throw me off :) I don't think they are stupid animals atall. Anyway - may try it out - should I be in South Island.