Author: Kelly

With the mountains blanketed in snow and the firelight flickering across cosy interiors, the Cardrona Valley is the perfect place to embrace the magic of winter. Whether you’re here for powder days, peaceful moments or thrilling adventures, The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs is your all-in-one base for an unforgettable alpine holiday.

A Warm Start to the Day

Ease into your morning with a visit to the Cardrona Valley General Store. Margaret’s freshly baked goods and barista coffee are legendary in the valley, and the store is also a hidden gem for locally made gifts and any winter essentials you may have left behind.

From there, head up the road to The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs to start your day’s adventure. Nestled in the heart of the valley, The Cardrona offers a range of outdoor experiences that shine in winter:

• Horse treks across rugged, frosty farmland
• Quad bike adventures along snowy alpine trails
• ATV rides for all levels and ages

Each activity can be tailored to your comfort and ability—making them perfect for families, couples or anyone seeking a unique winter thrill.

Snow Sports & Scenic Trails

Of course, no winter visit to Cardrona is complete without time on the slopes.

• Cardrona Alpine Resort is just up the road, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding with terrain for beginners and experts alike.
• For something slower-paced, Snow Farm has an extensive network of cross-country skiing trails and snowshoeing routes, ideal for soaking in the serene mountain views.

Après-Ski and Evening Indulgence

After a day in the snow, warm up by the fire at Cardrona Distillery. Their handcrafted spirits are internationally acclaimed, and a tasting flight here is the perfect pre-dinner treat.

Round out your day with a visit to the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most beloved pubs. Tuck into a hearty meal, then stay the night in one of their charming rooms. A hot breakfast awaits in the morning before you head out for another winter adventure.

Winter Travel Tips

Mother Nature can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it pays to plan ahead:

• Be prepared for frosts, ice and snowfall
• Allow extra time when driving
• Consider hiring snow chains with your rental car
• Always check road conditions before setting out—click here for the latest updates

This winter, let The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATV be the heart of your holiday. With its mix of adventure, comfort, and warm hospitality, the valley invites you to slow down, explore, and soak up the season in style.

Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs

info@thecardrona.co.nz

+64 3 443 1228

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Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Looking for the perfect Easter or ANZAC weekend escape? The Cardrona offers the ultimate adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery — all in one stunning location. With school holidays beginning for Kiwi and Aussie kids in mid-April, it’s the ideal time to get outdoors and experience something new.

Horse Treks through Breathtaking Landscapes

If you’re seeking a more tranquil escape, The Cardrona’s guided horse treks are the perfect way to explore the valley’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, our expert guides will lead you through some of New Zealand’s most picturesque landscapes. From panoramic alpine views to rolling valleys, the peaceful ride offers the chance to unwind while surrounded by the region’s pristine beauty. It’s the ideal family activity, providing both a connection with nature and an opportunity for quality time together.

Exciting 4×4 ATVs & Motorbikes

For those looking for a more thrilling adventure, The Cardrona offers 4×4 ATVs and Motorbikes for an unforgettable off-road experience. Ride through spectacular terrain, including hills, forests, and open trails, while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Whether you’re on an ATV or a motorbike, you’ll navigate rugged tracks that provide a unique challenge and plenty of excitement. Our friendly instructors will ensure you feel safe and confident, with all the necessary safety gear provided. These adrenaline-pumping adventures are perfect for both beginners and those seeking more of a challenge.

The River Run 1 hour family quad bike tour is ALWAYS private & customised to your children’s experience levels & abilities. 

Kids quad bikes available from 6 years+ see:

WWW.THECARDRONA.CO.NZ/FAMILY

Perfect for the School Holidays

With Easter and ANZAC weekends falling during the school holidays for Kiwi and Aussie kids, it’s a perfect chance for family bonding.

“Whether you’re looking to relax on a scenic horse trek or seek thrills on our 4×4 ATVs and motorbikes, The Cardrona offers something for everyone to enjoy. It’s an unforgettable way to make the most of the long weekends and create lasting memories together.” – Kel, The Cardrona

Bookings are filling up fast, so don’t miss out! Secure your spot for an Easter or ANZAC weekend escape at The Cardrona and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs

info@thecardrona.co.nz

+64 3 443 1228

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Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

At Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, we ride in all weather conditions! The key to a great experience is dressing appropriately. The mountain climate can shift quickly, so it’s always wise to be prepared. Bringing extra layers and not needing them is far better than wishing you had more when the temperature drops.

 Kel also reminds riders, “The higher up we go, the more beautiful it gets—but the colder it becomes!” If you need an extra layer, we have coats, jackets, and gloves available to borrow. Helmets, which we provide, are mandatory for the duration of your ride.

Dressing for the Seasons

Summer Sun and Wind Protection

The summer sun in Cardrona can be intense, so applying sunscreen to any exposed skin is essential. Sunglasses can be worn after your helmet is fitted, but make sure they’re secure—dangling them from your shirt is a surefire way to lose them!

Winter Warmth and Protection

Winter in Cardrona is breathtaking but can be bitterly cold. Dressing in layers is key—start with a thermal base layer, add a warm mid-layer like fleece or wool, and top it off with a waterproof outer shell. Accessories like gloves, a beanie, and a neck warmer will help keep you cozy.

Clothing and Footwear Guidelines

Our hardy Cardrona gals often ride in shorts, but that’s entirely up to you! More importantly, your upper body should be well-covered, especially on quad bikes, where the wind hits hardest. As Kel says, “It’s better to take extra layers and not need them rather than regretting the decision later on.”

For footwear, wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes like trainers or sneakers. If needed, we have a small selection of rubber gumboots available.

Keeping Your Belongings Safe

Secure loose items such as phones, car keys, and valuables in zippered pockets or the front storage box of the quad bikes. If something falls during the ride, we won’t be able to stop to retrieve it. To avoid losing anything important, consider leaving valuables and car keys in our locked reception area.

Get Ready to Have Fun!

This is an adventure, so don’t wear your best clothes—getting a little dirty means you’ve made the most of it! We take photos along the way, which you can purchase for $25 cash afterward, allowing you to fully enjoy the ride without worrying about capturing the moment yourself.

Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs

info@thecardrona.co.nz

+64 3 443 1228

Home

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Nestled between Wānaka and Queenstown, the Cardrona Valley is a region steeped in history, particularly its vibrant gold mining heritage. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in this storied past through the exhilarating experiences offered by The Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 Bikes.

The discovery of gold in November 1862 triggered a rush, drawing around 1,000 miners to the valley within a week. By 1863, the population had swelled to nearly 3,000, giving rise to a bustling township. Early prospectors panned for alluvial gold in riverbeds and creeks, but as surface deposits dwindled, miners turned to more advanced techniques such as sluicing and dredging. Sluicing involved using high-pressure water to erode hillsides, washing sediment into sluice boxes to extract gold. The largest operations relied on water from the Roaring Meg River, which was ingeniously channelled through hillside races to sustain the mining efforts—a feat of engineering whose remnants can still be seen today.

Despite its prosperity, the valley faced setbacks, including the devastating floods of 1878, which reshaped the landscape and challenged mining operations. However, the legacy of the gold rush endures, etched into the valley’s terrain and its historical landmarks.

Visitors today can step back in time by following the Cardrona Heritage Trail, which offers fascinating insights into the region’s gold mining past. One of the most iconic remnants of this era is the Cardrona Hotel, established in 1863, which stands as one of the last surviving structures from the gold rush days. With its well-preserved façade and rustic charm, it serves as a poignant reminder of the valley’s pioneering spirit. With The Cardrona Horses, you have the opportunity to park up at this iconic establishment just like the gold miners would have 150 years ago after a hard day mining.
On our “High Country Pub Trail” horse trek, arrive at the pub in the most authentic way – on horseback! (We’ll also shout you a beer!)

Book your saddle here;

WWW.CARDRONAHORSES.CO.NZ

Exploring Cardrona on horseback or by 4×4 is a unique way to experience this history firsthand. The Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 Bikes take adventurers through the rugged high country, where gold miners once toiled, bringing the past to life amidst breathtaking scenery. Whether winding through historic trails or marvelling at the remnants of mining ingenuity, visitors are sure to leave with a deeper appreciation of New Zealand’s rich gold mining heritage.

Learn more about Cardrona’s history and hotel here:

https://cardronahistory.com/

cardronahotel.co.nz

Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs

info@thecardrona.co.nz

+64 3 443 1228

Home

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Looking for an unforgettable experience for your little adventurers these school holidays? The Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs have you covered! Our exciting kiddie-friendly quad bike tours and horse treks promise fun for the whole family amidst stunning mountain landscapes.

The Gold Discovery Trail
Perfect for first-time riders, this horse trek welcomes kids aged 5 years and up. With little saddles designed especially for young children and the option to have them led by a guide horse, safety and comfort are guaranteed. Before setting off, our team provides a horse-riding demonstration and one-on-one lesson, ensuring everyone feels confident and ready.

This gentle trek takes you across rivers and through picturesque mountain scenery, making for a truly magical experience. At the end of the ride, kids will delight in feeding their horses a bucket of treats—a lovely way to bond with their new four-legged friend. To capture these cherished moments, an optional photo package is available for purchase.

Allow for 2 hours.

The River Run Quad Bike Tour
For families seeking an adrenaline-packed adventure, our one-hour private quad bike tour is a must! Kids aged 6 years and up can self-drive, starting on our practice paddock before heading out on the farm. With safety as our top priority, a full briefing and assisted training are provided to ensure everyone feels secure.

Younger children or those who prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride can join in one of our off-road buggies. We cater to all comfort and experience levels, making this adventure perfect for families. Highlights include splashing through muddy tracks, spotting farm animals, and taking in breathtaking mountain views. The muddiest rider wins bragging rights!

Allow for 1 hour.

Mix and Match Adventures
For an ultimate day out, combine horse treks, quad bikes, or buggies for a customised family experience. With activities tailored to all ages and interests, The Cardrona promises lasting memories for your school holiday adventures.

“Our goal is to give families a chance to explore the stunning Cardrona Valley while creating memories together,” says Kel, the owner. “Whether it’s your child’s first horse ride or their first go on a quad bike, we’ll make sure it’s an experience they’ll never forget!”

Book your spot today—spaces fill fast!

Contact The Cardrona

+64 3 443 1228

info@thecardrona.co.nz

Kids Rides

Contact Media PA
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
0274 587 724

Looking for a unique and unforgettable Christmas gift? A gift voucher for Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs is the perfect way to treat someone special to an adventure they’ll never forget. Whether it’s a peaceful horseback ride through stunning landscapes or an exhilarating quad-biking experience, a gift voucher offers a chance to explore the beauty of the Cardrona Valley in a way that will create lasting memories. Personalise the voucher with a special message for your loved one, making it the ideal present for anyone seeking outdoor adventure these Christmas holidays.

As summer arrives in the Cardrona Valley, the region is transformed into a breathtaking alpine paradise. The horses are gleaming with their shiny summer coats, and the snow has melted away from the mountain peaks, leaving clear skies and long sunny days that stretch well into the evening. This makes it the perfect time to experience the Twilight Rides, which run from 4:30 pm to 7 pm. These rides offer the unique opportunity to capture stunning sunset photographs, with the soft light casting beautiful shadows across the mountains and valley below.

Summer also brings the enchanting wildflower season to Cardrona. The lupins are starting to bloom along the Cardrona River, their vibrant purple and pink flowers creating a striking contrast against the lush green landscape. This stunning display lasts only a few weeks each year, making it a must-see for nature lovers. It’s the perfect time to explore the trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and take in the beauty of this fleeting natural wonder.

Kel, the owner of Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, says, “There’s something truly magical about this time of year. The combination of the glowing summer days, the stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to experience it all on horseback or an ATV makes for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re looking to gift someone something special or create lasting memories yourself, the Cardrona Valley never disappoints.”

Whether gifting an adventure or planning a summer outing, Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs offer a chance to experience the stunning beauty of the Cardrona Valley. Book now to make the most of the season and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact Experience The Cardrona

+64 3 443 1228

info@thecardrona.co.nz

Home

Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz

This holiday season, local businesses seeking an unforgettable Christmas work function need look no further than The Cardrona Quad Bikes & Off-road Buggy Tours. Located in the stunning Cardrona Valley, this experience offers the perfect mix of adventure, team bonding, and celebration, making it an ideal end-of-year treat for staff. Why settle for a typical function when you can take your team on an exhilarating off-road journey, complete with breathtaking views and the thrill of mountain exploration?

The Cardrona Quad Bikes & Off-road Buggy Tours are designed to accommodate groups of up to 20 people, making it perfect for corporate gatherings. Team members can choose between self-driving their own quad bike or riding as passengers in sturdy off-road buggies, driven by The Cardrona’s expert guides. This flexibility allows everyone to feel comfortable while still enjoying the excitement of the 4×4 experience. Led by skilled guides familiar with the region, the tour explores some of Cardrona Valley’s most picturesque trails, creating an adventure that’s both thrilling and safe for all involved.

After the day’s excitement, the Christmas festivities continue nearby, allowing businesses to keep the entire experience local. Just steps away, the renowned Cardrona Distillery offers a sophisticated setting to unwind with locally crafted spirits, perfect for a year-end toast. Alternatively, a short drive up the road, the historic Cardrona Hotel welcomes groups with its cosy, festive atmosphere and delicious meals, ideal for a celebratory meal and drinks to mark the end of 2024.

Kel, the owner of The Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, shared her thoughts: “We love welcoming local businesses to the valley. A Christmas function here gives teams a chance to experience something special together. There’s nothing quite like seeing everyone’s faces light up as they explore the trails—it’s a real bonding experience.”

Booking a Christmas function with The Cardrona Quad Bikes & Off-road Buggy Tours offers local businesses a chance to create a memorable experience that their teams will cherish. It’s a unique way to reward employees, foster team spirit, and celebrate the season. By choosing this local adventure, businesses not only enjoy an exceptional event but also support the vibrant attractions and hospitality of the Cardrona Valley. Secure your booking today for an unforgettable Christmas celebration!

Contact The Cardrona

+64 3 443 1228

info@thecardrona.co.nz

Home

Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz

Spring has truly arrived in the Cardrona Valley, transforming the landscape into a vibrant display of greenery, blossoms, and the hum of honeybees. It’s a special time of year for Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, with the added beauty of lambing and calving season creating a unique and memorable backdrop for their tours.

During the tours, care is taken around the new mothers and their babies. “Lambing and calving season has just begun here on the farm, so it’s a very special time of year. We need to be extra careful and go quietly past the new mums and babies while on tour with the horses and quad bikes. Sometimes we’ll stop a tour and wait for a mother to help her new baby to its feet to follow her safely away,” Kel explains. These peaceful moments make the tours a truly special way to witness the rhythms of farm life.

For those looking for an unforgettable spring adventure, Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs offers both individual and group tours, making it the perfect activity for families, friends, or even workmates. Whether you’re after the calm of a horseback trek or the thrill of a 4×4 ride, Cardrona provides an ideal setting for a spring outing.

If you’re planning a group adventure off the beaten track or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the season, Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs is ready to offer an experience you won’t forget. Get in touch to book your tour today!

Contact Experience The Cardrona

+64 3 443 1228

info@thecardrona.co.nz

Home

Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz

Kelly Spaans is the heart and soul behind The Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, where she blends her love for horses and outdoor adventures. From her start as a horse trekking guide to running her own business off the beaten track in Cardrona Valley, Kelly’s passion for the land shines through in everything she does.

1. If you could only choose one: horse trekking, quad biking, or riding ATVs, which would it be and why?

Ah that’s easy – Horses hands down! They’re my babies 😉 However we go much higher up the mountain on the quads & off-road buggies, therefore the views are even more impressive, so I often think “how nice it would be to be on a horse up here..” they’re both very cool activities!

2. What inspired you to create your business? And why Cardrona? 

I was already working full time as a horse trekking guide in the local area, so it was a natural progression as I was already very intimately connected with the land on the farm I now run my business on (riding my horse, running, mountain biking & quad biking for fun almost every day). 

3. Do you have a story from your early life that hinted you might end up working with horses and outdoor activities?

My sister & I were very “horse-mad” as young girls, but we lived in the city so we were not allowed a pony of our own. Our parents bought us motorbikes instead, I guess hoping that would stop the pestering for horses & horse riding – the good thing is now I can ride both! Thanks Mum & Dad! 

When I was about 15 my Aunty started up a horse trekking business on their farm in Waitarere Beach & I used to go up & help her out preparing the horses & being her “tail end charlie” on weekends & school holidays, now the tables have turned & she doesn’t have horses anymore, so it’s quite neat to take her out on my treks when she is visiting the area.

4. What are your hobbies outside of your business activities?

I’m a keen runner & mountain biker, I generally love being outdoors & keeping fit so doing what I do for a job suits me down to the ground! In the winter I try to dust my snowboard off & in the summer it’s great to get out with my partner on our Harley Davidsons – if I can manage to ride a horse as well as my snowboard/ Harley in the same day that’s a pretty wicked feeling 😉

5. What is the most unique feedback you have ever had?

There have been many occasions whether verbally or online I have received accolades to the effect of; “This was the honestly best ride I have ever done”, & frequently “This was hands down the highlight of our Queenstown/Wanaka holiday” It is very touching to hear such positive feedback & I love that my clients expectations are often exceeded.

6. If you were to add a completely new, somewhat unconventional activity to Cardrona, what would it be?

Hmmm I’ve ridden Camels & Elephants in other countries… Not sure they would like Cardrona very much though haha

7. How do you hope your work impacts your clients and the community?

As I mentioned above, I hope that my clients expectations are exceeded & that those that were perhaps new to the activity or worried/ nervous can come away with a sense of accomplishment. We have a lovely community here in Cardrona Valley where we all look out for each other & support the local businesses so I feel privileged to be a part of that & make sure my neighbours come & experience what I have to offer.  

8. What legacy do you wish to create through your business?

Cherishing & respect of this special land & its history that we are so privileged to be able to enjoy

9. What are some important lessons you’ve learned about life and business throughout your journey?

Where do I start? I had never owned a business before this one, in fact I had never really properly owned horses of my own! & I continue to learn from them – they are amazing creatures! I say to my new staff as I am training them “learn from my mistakes” as I made many in the early years! It’s a pretty well-oiled machine now though.

10. Did you ever imagine the bra fence would be as popular as it is?

Haha nobody did! As I’m typing this I can see many vehicles parked beside it & people taking photos & making cash donations which I bank for NZBCF, plus I can see emails coming through with donations coming via the QR code to the “Bradrona” fundraising page almost $170,000 so far & counting! I’ve been interviewed by various media sources more times than I can remember now & pleased to be able to assist with supporting such a worthy cause.

Kelly has turned her love for adventure into more than just a business—she’s built a community and created lasting memories in Cardrona Valley. Through exciting experiences and a genuine love for the outdoors, she continues to inspire and impress everyone who comes her way.

Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs

info@thecardrona.co.nz

+64 3 443 1228

Home

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz