Rules and guidelines for riding a horse in a regional park
When riding in a regional park, you must follow general rules and any park‑specific rules.
General rules
- Riding groups are limited to 10 riders, unless a park has different limits.
- Dogs are not allowed at any time.
- Horse riding is only allowed during the park’s opening hours.
- Riders must stay on tracks or designated riding areas shown on park maps.
- Riders must not canter or gallop unless it is part of an approved permit or event.
- Riders should avoid tracks that have become boggy due to heavy rain.
- Ensure horses do not browse or graze native vegetation.
- Horses must not be tied to trees or branches. Hitching rails may be provided but remove any hitching rail ropes after use.
- Report lost horses to park staff immediately.
- Let park staff know if you need access to a horse float to move an injured animal.
Safety and responsibility
- Riders are responsible for their horses at all times.
- Riders under 18 years old must be supervised by an adult rider at all times.
- Wear an approved helmet when you ride.
Respect other people and the environment
Some tracks are shared with walkers and mountain bike riders. Some people are frightened of horses.
You should:
- slow down and give way to others
- avoid startling people
- respect areas set aside for other park users
- protect plants and wildlife
- avoid sensitive natural, historical and archaeological areas
- take your rubbish home
- report any damage, graffiti or inappropriate behaviour to a ranger.
Farming areas
- Leave farm gates as you find them unless signs say otherwise.
- Ride slowly through paddocks so farm animals are not disturbed.
Horse floats and trucks
Horse floats and trucks must remain at the designated unloading and parking areas.
To prevent the spread of weeds species, remove all hayseeds from your truck or float. Also, remove all horse poo from the unloading and parking areas.
Prevent the spread of kauri dieback in our regional parks
Kauri dieback is a serious plant disease. Follow these steps to help prevent it spreading.
Before you leave home
- Clean your horse’s hooves and your footwear with soapy water.
- Brush your horse’s coat to remove soil.
- Wash down your horse float and vehicle.
When you arrive at the park
- Park your truck or horse float on a dry gravel surface.
- Tie your horse to your truck or a hitching post (if available) on a dry surface.
- Spray your horse’s hooves with sterigene disinfectant (if provided).
During your ride
- Stay on tracks and follow all signs.
- Avoid riding through soft or wet ground.
Before you go home
- Clean your horse’s hooves and your footwear again with soapy water.
- Brush your horse’s coat to remove soil.
- Bag items like footwear, stirrups and saddle bags to clean at home.
- Spray your horse’s hooves with sterigene disinfectant (if provided).
Read more about your responsibilities when riding in our parks: