Millbrook, NY—March 1, 2004—Cross Country International is pleased to offer two new equestrian trail riding vacations in New Zealand in 2004 – the South Pacific Beach Trail and the Horseback Safari Trail.

“New Zealand is one of the best countries in the world for riders,” said Karen Lancaster, President of Cross Country International. “The horses are wonderful, the terrain is open and rolling, the weather is perfect and there are many equestrian activities offered.”

New Zealand’s South Pacific Beach Trail
The South Pacific Beach Trail takes guests to some of the finest beaches in the world, through exotic forests and over historic farmlands on New Zealand’s North Island. Guests reside at the Homestead at Puketiti Station, located at the base of a prominent local landmark, for the full duration of their trip. Several species of trees originating from many different parts of the world surround the Homestead, including an impressive grove of Californian Redwoods.

All levels of riders, from beginners to professionals, will enjoy themselves on this ride as they travel through the remote mountain country of the North Island’s east coast. The local Maori culture exudes a kind, pioneering spirit that makes this New Zealand experience intriguing and unforgettable. Rides take guests to beautiful beaches that are not only famous for their great surf, but for their abundance of marine life as well. While passing remnants of the early settlements of what was once a thriving hub of the New Zealand lamb trade, riders immerse themselves in the country’s exciting and historic culture.

While relaxing at the Homestead guesthouse, vacationers can gaze out over the 7,000-acre sheep and cattle station that has been in operation for over 150 years. Although the farm’s facilities have been modernized over the years, it is still family-owned and operated and showcases many examples of pioneering buildings and machinery.

The price of New Zealand’s South Pacific Beach Trail is $1,395 per person and includes six nights guesthouse accommodation, five days of guided trail riding and partial transportation to and from the Homestead. Session dates for 2004 are February 16-22, March 22-28, April 5-11, September 13-19 and October 11-17. Non-riding activities include sightseeing, hiking, fishing, surfing, swimming, biking and sailing.

New Zealand’s Horseback Safari Trail
Taupo, one of New Zealand’s most popular outdoor destinations, is now the home of Cross Country International’s new Horseback Safari. Located in the heart of New Zealand’s central North Island, the area on the shores of Lake Taupo is known for its incredible scenery, adventure tourism, geothermal activity and pristine snow-capped mountains.
Tongariro National Park, located just a couple of miles south of Lake Taupo, became the set of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Taupo’s natural steaming craters, boiling mud pools, and sulfuric pools and hot springs all added to the magic of the film.
Safari Trail rides will take guests from their home base, a working ranch near Taupo, through native bush country, populated with a variety of native birds, deer, wild turkey, ducks and pheasants. The 2,500-acre ranch is a working dairy, sheep, beef, and horse farm that allows riders to watch and take part in many of its daily activities. Guests will be invited to participate in activities such as sheep mustering, shearing and wool production. Observing and assisting with these duties will offer guests a “farm-life” experience.

English or Western tack may be used as riders travel the country side on sturdy Western-trained Quarter Horses, English-trained Thoroughbred crosses and ponies suitable for young, aspiring riders. Along the trails are optional jumps and the open land and rolling hills make for exhilarating gallops. Guests will ride to Lake Taupo to take an afternoon dip and relax with a delicious picnic lunch.

New Zealand’s Horseback Safari Trail offers four different sessions during 2004: March 29-April 4, April 19-25, September 20-26 and October 18-24. The price of this safari is $1695 per person and includes six nights guesthouse accommodation, all meals, and five days of trail riding. Non-rider activities include biking, fishing, boating, sailing, hunting, hiking, golfing, kayaking, white water rafting, geyser treks, and jet skiing.

For more information about Cross Country International and its New Zealand vacation opportunities please visit www.equestrianvacations.com or call (800) 828-8768.

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