Horse Riding
The lodge has a number of horses and can arrange for our riding manager Heather Harrington to take you for treks of various lengths in summer (usually October-April, sometimes outside this period depending on the season).
Heather follows the Pat Parelli method of Natural Horsemanship, aiming to encourage the horse to obey because it wants to, not through fear or pain. She’s fascinating to talk to about the philosophies behind her horse-handling.
The horses are steady without being broken-down dude ranch nags, and they are very much individual personalities.
You'll be introduced to your horse by name and told its habits and characteristics. They are known in New Zealand as farm hacks -- specially bred for surefootedness and endurance. These are the type of horses used by high country shepherds for mustering in sheep from steep mountainsides and wide open tussocklands. Likewise, the saddles are a cross between English and Western, developed with a small pommel, knee-holds and a deep seat, to keep the rider comfortably in the saddle going up and down hills or river banks.
As for riders, you will be required to wear a helmet, in line with adventure tourism recommendations by the New Zealand Occupational Safety and Health service. Your saddlebag has room for a camera, because the photo-stop at the top of the deer farm is worth it. Gym shoes or walking shoes are sufficient footwear, and it's sometimes a good idea to take a light jacket because it can be a little windier on the hill.
The most popular trek at Grasmere suits riders of all abilities and lasts for about 90 minutes, through the farm paddocks and up through native matagouri scrub to one of the most spectacular view points on the ranch.
The route then goes through tussock country around the deer paddocks, where riders are sometimes privileged in the spring to see fawns being born, or sleeping in the shelter of the fenceline. The ride comes back along the river, along the foot of Mt Romulus and back to the stable yard.
Longer rides of several hours are available by prior arrangement, with a picnic if desired, as well as short walks with Heather leading the horse, to give younger or inexperienced riders at least a taste of being on horseback.
Riding at Grasmere Lodge is a great opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and quietness of the high country, following in the hoofprints of the shepherds who have preceded us.
State Highway 73 · Cass · Canterbury · Private Bag 55009 · Christchurch · New Zealand
Telephone +64 3 318 8407 · Fax +64 3 318 8263 · E-Mail Retreat@Grasmere.co.nz
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