Facilities & Activities

Relax & Unwind

A stay at Serenada Country Lodge is not complete without making full use of our extensive facilities. Why not read a book by the grand fireplace with a lovely glass of red, or perhaps watch the rugby while sitting at the bar enjoying a brew with Mark. Or maybe sipping a cocktail in the outdoor spa pool with the amazing southern hemisphere night sky gazing back at you is more to your liking?

In summer, our heated swimming pool is a centrepiece, it's the perfect place to while away a lazy summer's afternoon. 

Horses & Farm

Visit Serenada's sister property Horsford Downs - where Lyn operates Riarma Quarter Horse Stud - and  enjoy one of the authentic visitor activities they operate exclusively for Serenada Country Lodge guests.

Western Pleasure and Cutting Horse Demonstration

Come watch western pleasure and cutting horses in action. The first demonstration you will see is of Western pleasure horses being trained. The quarter horses will go through their paces on a very loose draped rein which looks like they are performing by themselves.

The next demonstration is of the clever cutting horses. Cutting has its origins in the old west when they needed to get an animal out of its herd on the range to doctor or check out. The cattle beast is quietly edged out of the herd then the action starts as the animal tries to get back with its mates.  See how the horse, like a cat playing with a mouse, cuts it off leaping in big sweeping motions from side to side. Truly an awesome sight to behold.  An expert will talk you through both demonstrations.

$150 adult, $75 child (6 to 13 years old), free for under 5's
1 1/2 hrs
Includes transportation to and from Horsford Downs.

Western Horse Riding Lesson

At the start of your western horse riding lesson you will learn how to groom and saddle your horse up and be given at explanation about the tack.  Once on the horse you will experience a 45 minute western lesson by a real professional.  Learn how to walk, jog, lope around, and even go over some poles.

$150 per person
1 1/2hrs
Includes transport to and from Horsford Downs.

Horse Trekking

Enjoy relaxed riding over 1055 acres (426 hectares) of sheep & beef breeding & finishing farm with flat/rolling hills and some steeper limestone country, ranging from 240m - 400m (787 - 1312 feet) above sea level with views looking over the Whiterock farming district and surrounding mountains of Mt Grey, Mt Karetu, Mt Blue and Mt Thomas with the Ashley forest backdrop. Well tracked with an intensive redeveloping program in progress.

1 hr $90 per person
2 hrs $160 per person

Includes transport to and from Horsford Downs.

Serenada horse yards (left) and stables (right)

Plus, meet our gentle giant Bella.  This Belgian Draft mare (right) is trained to harness so we can provide a horse and carriage for weddings.

Farm Tours & Demonstrations

COMING SOON!
Experience a farm tour of the scenic Horsford Downs before seeing a working dog and sheep shearing demonstrations. Contact Serenada Lodge for more information.

Local Activities & Attractions

North Canterbury is blessed with a range of landscapes and microclimates meaning there is something in the region for everyone at all times of the year. Boutique food and wine producers pepper the area, not to mention the classic kiwi cafes and restaurants that stock the local produce.

Of course there is plenty to do for those not wanting to just eat and drink! Scenic drives abound, North Canterbury is a great place to take your time and explore. Find out what the rest of this area has to offer here

 For general New Zealand tourism information visit the NZ-Tourism Directory here