Kaimanawa Ranges Annual Horse Tour

This morning we head south. Enjoy the scenery through to Taupo, stopping for morning tea along the way before arriving at Aratiatia. “Aratiatia” means “stairway of Tia” after the legendary Māori explorer Tia. He arrived at the rapids and was fascinated by the tiered form. Aratiatia Rapids is one of the most popular natural attractions in North Island – a must see on your visit to Taupo. Watch thousands of litres of water rush from the dam gates to transform the peaceful gully into raging rapids. Located on the Waikato River, about 16km downstream from Taupo town centre. The dam opens three times a day in winter and four times a day in summer.

The Aratiatia Power station is the first hydroelectric power station on the Waikato River. It was built in 1964 and is owned by Mercury.

There are several viewing points where you can watch the opening of the Dam gates. You can view the release from the main bridge beside the car park or walk five minutes to two different viewing points along the river.  A minimum of 65,000 litres of water per second is released. It takes about 15 minutes.

Once the water has been released, we will board the red Huka Falls Cruise Boat, sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Waikato River and Huka Falls with a local experienced tour guide. This boat has comfortable inside seating area, large deck at the rear and a front viewing platform. You surely will get the very best views of Huka Falls as we approach. Experience crystal clear water, birdlife, native bush lined riverbanks and natural hot streams.

This is an excellent cruise for breath taking photography. The water is always calm which means it operates all year round. They even offer free tea & coffee on board.

On return to shore, we will continue into Taupo town centre – where we will stop for something to eat.

We will then continue our way along Lake Taupo’s shores then across the Desert Road, arriving at our destination and accommodation for the next two nights in Ohakune.

Relax a little or take a stroll along the river before we head into town for dinner.

Overnight Peaks Motor Inn – Ohakune

It’s a bit of an early start to our day this morning – on the road by 8 am. We drive to Waiouru and enter the Defence Force land. Here we will board our Tour Coach for the next leg of the journey. Annually the Kaimanawa Heritage Horses association arrange a guided bus trip through the Waiouru Army Base land to see foals, mares, yearlings, and stallions roaming in their natural habitat in their family bands. There will also be a stop at the yards where the horses are mustered, and you will see the spectacular scenery where these horses run. The bus trip includes a talk and slide show on army activities and safety.

We will stop at a scenic area for lunch at the yards, the site where the horses are generally mustered. A representative of the Kaimanawa Heritage Horses Trust will provide an insight into the muster process. There will be a merchandise stall at the muster yards, which is part of their fundraising efforts for the ongoing management of the horses.

This region is closed to the public, and we are very fortunate to be able to take this opportunity to see what happens behind the scenes.

Then it’s back onto our bus to travel back to our accommodation place. If it’s not too late we will stop at the Tangiwai memorial site to pay our respects to those who lost their lives on that fateful night back on Christmas Eve of 1953.

Tonight, we dine somewhere nice for dinner again in Ohakune.

Overnight Peaks Motor Inn – Ohakune

This morning we shall visit the famous – Chocolate éclair bakery for one more time for those who wish to take some home for friends and family. Bring your chilly bags to put them in.

On our way homeward we will head up the Top of The Bruce and hop onboard the Sky Waka. (Additional cost of $49pp) Ride through the sky on the most advanced gondola in New Zealand, with floor to ceiling, 360 degrees views. Journey over waterfalls and ancient lava flows and take in the majestic scenery of Mt Ruapehu and its neighbouring volcanoes, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro.

Those who do not wish to take the ride are welcome to stop off at the Chateau and enjoy morning tea or go for a walk around.

On our descent of the mountain, we will head to National Park Station where you will get ready to board the train.

The Northern Explorer will collect you from here enroute from Wellington to Hamilton. You will travel back in style, enjoying the wonderful vistas, from the large windows and/or viewing platform onboard.

We will meet you again in Hamilton, where you will disemabrk the lovely train, and continue your homeward journey  across the Kaimai ranges to your homes.