New Zealand and the world's greatest east to west coast horse trek in one country

North of Auckland is believed to be the only place in the world where you can ride a horse from the coast by one ocean across country to the sea on the west coast.

Pakiri Horses provide a seven-day coast to coast horse trekking adventure that is out of this world.

It’s run by Laly and Sharley Haddon – and their personalities and enthusiasm make it so worthwhile. Laly was a great rugby player in his day. He was a giant of a man with hands like meat plates and a smile that lifted the sun. He rides horses with all the skill of his rugby playing days. He is one of the few great totaras of Northland Maoridom.

Their trek adventure starts from the Pacific Ocean along the beach and through bush and paddocks and harbour views to the west coast. Pakiri Beach is a 24km stretch of pristine white sand

The Haddon home where the Pakiri Horse venture is based is on Maori family land passed down through generations.

The trek takes the horses through the shallow waves, up over sand dunes, through swamp mangroves of ancient pohutukawa trees which are dazzling with red flowers at Christmas time. The horses trek through native bush, silver fern and nikau palms, pine forests and farm paddocks, along river banks, to tidal estuaries and finally our to the Tasman Sea.

The convey stops each night at rustic cabins in the dunes or other accommodation is available. Laly says the trek follows a trail of his ancestors. There is a visit to an ancient Maori Pa site (living area of a paramount Maori chief.

The most exciting part of the journey is the trek along the unpopulated and private Pakiri Beach. No wonder the Haddons love sharing the isolation and tranquil imposing beauty with their guests.

Other rides can be just day trips and the horses themselves become characters and features of the journey – be it a day or a week. There’s nothing quite like it in this part of the world.

The Pakiri area an hour’s drive north of Auckland is known locally as Matakana and popular for its wines, Saturday food markets, olives and great beaches.

The Waimana Point and Kourawhero luxury lodges are ideal bases for couples wanting to relax in international quality surroundings and excellent meals at night.

Tourists must also visit the Ascension winery, cafe and vineyard – first class and such a story to be heard there!