WELCOME
This year’s horse-riding trail is a very special one, steeped in history, community spirit, and classic Otago high-country adventure. As we celebrate 33 years of Cavalcade tradition, we also honour two pillars of our trail’s legacy — Jim and Dave. From the very beginning, their vision and dedication shaped this route into what it is today. Now, three decades on, our entire trail spends a full week within their home territory in recognition of their foundational role and enduring commitment. It is both a homecoming and a tribute.
Another cornerstone of our journey is the Maniototo Area School, whose team has supported this trail for more than 20 years. Their cooking is legendary — often declared the best food on the entire Cavalcade — and once again they stand alongside us, helping showcase their remarkable region. Thanks to them, riders will gain access to unique properties, remote locations normally closed to the public, and even some brand-new Cavalcade country never ridden before.
Duration
7 Days (or 2.5 half-week)
Date
1 March 2026
Difficulty
Serious/Challenging (7-8 hours daily)
Fitness
Solid 7-8 hours daily - serious trail
Experience Required
Must be prepared to dismount and lead down hills, serious trekking experience
Rider / Participant Cost:
$950pp ($490pp 1/2 day)
Back-up
Cost:
$915pp
WEATHER EXPECTATIONS
Variable mountain/basin weather
HIGHLIGHTS
Scenic Highlights
Throughout the week, riders will experience the wide-open grandeur and distinct goldfields character of the region, including:
360-degree views across the Maniototo Basin
Kakanui Mountains
Danseys Pass vistas
Naseby’s historic gold country
The rugged edge of the Western Rim
The dramatic heights of the Rock and Pillar Range
Multiple historic gold-mining sites, reminders of the Otago Gold Rush heritage
Special Events
Patearoa Station shindig,
Unique Features
A half-week option for strong, experienced riders
Professional horse hire available through Adventure Horse Treks
(https://adventurehorsetrekking.co.nz/horse-treks/31st-goldfields-heritage-trust-cavalcade-2024/)
Access to exclusive, rarely-opened high-country areas
A route shaped by history — both goldfields and Cavalcade history
A celebratory journey honouring Jim, Dave, and the communities who built this trail
TRAIL DETAILS
ALL YOU NEED TO BE PREPARED FOR YOUR NEXT CAVALCADE ADVENTURE
Itinerary
SUPPORT LEVEL -
Fully supported
MEETING DATE & TIME :
1 March 2026
Afternoon
MEETING LOCATION :
Kyeburn area
RIDE OUT TIME :
Variable
RETURN TIME :
Variable (7-8 hour days)
TERRAIN :
Off-track riding, hill and valley sidling, steep ascents/descents via spurs and ridges
Sunday – Kyeburn Welcome
Riders meet in the Kyeburn area for an evening of reconnection — catching up with our trail family, debriefing, and welcoming new members into our Cavalcade whānau.
Monday – Into the Kakanui Mountains
We begin with a solid climb into the Kakanui Mountains, rewarded with sweeping views before dropping down toward the Danseys Pass area for the night.
Tuesday – Deep Into Gold Country
The trail leads us through the storied landscapes around Naseby, rich in mining relics and natural beauty.
Wednesday & Thursday – Western Rim Traverse
Two days riding along the Western Rim of the Maniototo Basin, passing significant gold-mining sites and enjoying expansive views. We arrive at Patearoa Station for a lively shindig and a memorable farewell to the Maniototo.
Friday – Over the Rock and Pillar Range
A high climb over the dramatic Rock and Pillar Range, followed by a descent into the Middlemarch Valley, bringing us ever closer to Saturday’s big celebrations.
Important Information:
ACCOMMODATION:
TBC
Waterproof coat/jacket/leggings/hat, Jersey/balaclava/socks/longjohns/gloves, Hot weather gear, Swimming gear
CATERING:
TBC
HORSE REQUIREMENTS:
Very fit, well-shod, good capability, well-behaved for difficult terrain
PACKING LIST:
CLOTHING
Waterproof coat/jacket/leggings/hat, Jersey/balaclava/socks/longjohns/gloves, Hot weather gear, Swimming gear
OTHER ESSENTIALS
Horse (very fit, well-shod for half-week option)
OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
Half-week option available (2.5 days from Wednesday evening)
VEHICLE TRANSFER:
Option to have vehicle ferried from starting point to Middlemarch (in one shift, you will not have access to your vehicleor float until you get back to Middlemarch) $95