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FAQ

Do I need to be an experienced rider?

  • We have horses to suit beginner riders right through to very experienced ones, so riders of any level are welcome.  All of our treks, apart from our experienced horse trek once a month, are catered for beginners.

 

What can non-riders do at Ohariu Valley Equestrian Centre?

  • The country atmosphere in Ohariu Valley is typically rural New Zealand, so even if you’re not riding we know you’ll enjoy your visit.  There are opportunities for non-riders to:

    • Browse through our equestrian store

    • Play a quick game of golf at Ohariu Valley Golf Course

    • Watch the riders in the sand arena

    • Take a walk on the Old Coach Road

 

When are you open?

  • Our shop/office is open 6 days a week from 10am – 6pm Tuesday to Friday and 9am - 5pm on weekends all year round, except for some public holidays.  Our shop/office is closed on Mondays.

  • Horse treks are available 6 days a week  - weather & booking numbers permitting.  Call (04) 477-3888.

 

Can we hire horses and go out by ourselves?

  • No, all our horse treks are led by experienced trek guides to ensure your safety.

 

Can we go fast on the horses?

We try to please all levels of ability, so this is assessed on a ride-by-ride basis according to the riding experience of other customers on the trek. There is usually an opportunity to ride at a brisker pace for those who are experienced.  We do offer monthly two hour treks exclusively for experienced riders, contact us for more information.

 

What equipment do I need?

We provide safety helmets (a range of sizes available) and we recommend you bring a warm water/wind proof jacket, long pants and sturdy enclosed footwear. Jandals and open footwear are not suitable.  Please wear sunscreen.

 

Can I bring a camera?

Small cameras are welcome on all rides as there is a photo stop. However cameras should be securely fastened, either with a belt strap or in a zipped pocket. Cameras are carried at the riders own risk. We do not take any responsibility for any loss or damage. Large/bulky cameras are not recommended.

 

Do I have to pay a deposit and what is your cancellation policy?

  • Yes, we require a 50% deposit to secure any horse trek or pony arena hire booking. 

  • Payment can be made by credit card over the phone when you call our office on (04) 477-3888  Alternatively a deposit can be made directly into our bank account. 

  • Cancellations received within 24 hours of the time of the horse trek departure time will not be refunded the 50% deposit amount.  The same applies with "no shows". Your deposit will not be able to be used to secure a future booking either. 

  • If OVEC cancels your booking due to bad weather (i.e. heavy rain and/or severe wind) or insufficient booking numbers, we will fully refund your deposit to you or your deposit can be used to secure a future booking.

 

What happens if it's raining on the day of my horse trek/pony arena hire?

  • Our office staff will call you between 9am and 9.30am if your booking is to be cancelled.  Either a refund of your deposit will be arranged or your booking will be moved to another date.

  • It may be wet and wild at your place, but not in Ohariu Valley, so if in doubt, please call us. 

  • If it's light rain, the horse treks and pony arena hires still take place.

 

IMPORTANT NOTICE

  • For a safe and enjoyable ride we provide at least two guides per trek

  • Please follow our guide's instructions at all times

  • The pace of your ride will be at the guide's discretion

  • Stay behind the front guide and ahead of the back guide at all times

  • Keep clear of all fences as some are electric fences

  • Our guides are there to help you - if you have any concerns on your trek, please let your guide know

  • Before you depart on your trek, please advise your guide if you are on any medication or have an existing medical condition.

 

RESPONSIBILITY

Ohariu Valley Equestrian Centre (OVEC) has safety procedures for all of our horse treks as the wellbeing and safety of our customers, staff and horses are of the upmost importance to us.

 

Customer bookings are accepted on the understanding that  all customers appreciate the pos­sible risks inherent in adventure travel specifically on and around horses, and that they undertake our treks at their own volition.

 

OVEC places extreme importance on the safety of its customers. We provide safety instructions and correct riding techniques to customers prior to treks departing as well as throughout the treks.  However, it is important that customers realise that they are responsible for making themselves aware of the risks involved and are responsible for making their decisions accordingly.

 

All care will be taken, but OVEC assumes no responsibility for injury, loss or damage in any way. In making your booking it is assumed that all customers agree to accept the authority and decisions of OVEC’s employees and guides whilst on any treks. 

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