Public access for horse riders
Horse riding is a popular recreational activity and integral to New Zealand's culture and heritage. Tens of thousands of New Zealanders care for and ride horses. Many more love seeing horses while they are out and about - maybe even patting or feeding them a handful of grass. Allowing horse riding on public access and trails throughout the country is essential to preserve this tradition and promote outdoor recreation for all.
Herenga ā Nuku supports comprehensive, enduring and practical public access for horse riders. The default policy for public access should be multi-use trails. Public access should allow people to walk, horse ride, bike, or enjoy the outdoors in other ways. If modes of use are restricted, then clear evidence should justify that decision. We should try to identify alternative public access for the modes that have been excluded.
Horse riding offers a unique way to experience New Zealand. By allowing horse riding on public access and trails, more people can appreciate our environment and connect with nature. Horse riding is a popular activity for rangitahi wahine, as well as many people who are neuro-diverse or have a disability. Access for horse riders aligns with New Zealand's commitment to environmental conservation and promoting sustainable outdoor activities.
Access to public trails for horse riding provides economic benefits to local communities through tourism and the equine industry. Horse riders are great tourists and contributors to regional economies because they take their time to enjoy their surroundings. They spend more money with local hospitality and businesses than traditional tourists who drive straight through. Many riders and their families travel to explore new areas and support local businesses, contributing to the vitality of these regions.
Responsible horse riding can coexist with other recreationists, as horse riders are usually aware and considerate of others on the trails. Horse riding can integrate harmoniously with tramping, biking and other outdoor activities with proper signage, trail etiquette, and designated multi-use paths. These affordable initiatives benefit all trail users.
More information
- Horse riders and the Outdoor Access Code
- The New Zealand Equestrian Advocacy Network is an independent charitable trust that improves the safety and well-being of all New Zealand riders and their horses by promoting and preserving recreational horse-riding tracks, trails, and pathways in New Zealand’s public spaces.