Horse riding

Horseriding at QEP - Jessica Dewsnap

Queen Elizabeth Park is an ideal venue for horseriding, with easy trails over farmland and ready access to the beach. 

Check out ourtrail map for horse riders.

Begin your ride at MacKays Crossing and follow the designated trails, giving way to walkers. Access points to the beach are at Paekakariki, Whareroa and Raumati South. Check the Kāpiti Coast District Council website for information about possible restrictions.

The coastal dune tracks, picnic areas and beach are closed to horse riders. Casual riders should not use the horse jumps which are for organised equestrian events only.

Kapiti Stables

You can go for a horse trek in the park with Kapiti Stables. Grazing and Riding instruction is also available.

For information about riding lessons, grazing or hiring a pony please call 027 355 3046 or visit their website. 

Horse riding trails

Equestrian Area - Paekakariki

• Distance: 4 km one way
• Grade: easy
• Time: 1 hour each way

A route loops south around the perimeter of the equestrian area and returns to the sealed road. From Mackays Crossing, follow the track beside the road and turn left a short way along the track through the gate into the farm paddocks. Ride across the paddock past the water tanks and follow the trail to the sealed road. Return through the equestrian area or beside the sealed road.

Whareroa Stream Loop

• Distance: 4 km return
• Grade: easy
• Time: 1 hour

From the equestrian area at MacKays Crossingfollow the track beside the sealed road to the beach. Turn right across the tram lines before the beach picnic areas. Head north to Whareroa Stream and follow this loop track. Return the same way.

Contact the park ranger to arrange alternative routes through the farmland.