Luggate Horse Trek - March 09

On the 4th March 09 the Luggate Hotel organized the most awesome trek from Wanaka over Criffel and Lake McKay Stations to Luggate.

After a huge BBQ breakfast we set off from Rodeo Grounds in Wanaka and walked up the Cardrona River Bed. It was then a short distance on Faulks Road until we turned left into Maxwell Road and then right into Boundary Road. From there we turned left along Mt Barker Road and then finally right into Smith Road which would then lead us over the hills through Criffel and Lake McKay Stations and finally down the Luggate Creek to finish at the Luggate Hotel.

Walking up the Cardrona River Bed

We stopped for a break and lunch (provided by the Luggate Hotel) plus plenty of liquid refreshments. As you can Sean is finding the drinks a little heavy.

After a bit of a climb it was time to give the horses a puff and to let the riders have a good look around

The views looking back towards Wanaka were spectacular

In the distance at the end of the valley you can just make out the Luggate township

Because of the steep grade of the track it was easier on the horses to get off and walk down some of the way

Ginny Nelson certainly looks like she is enjoying herself and her new horse Ben took the day in her stride

After a steep downhill walk it was time to give the horses a well deserved rest and the riders a well deserved refreshment stop at the cattle yards before we made our way back down the Luggate Creek to end our journey at the Luggae Hotel

The horses didn't seem to mind being inside the hotel and Roger Moseby and trail boss Don Patterson certainly enjoyed sampling the local brew

The day was finished off with a fantastic buffet dinner followed by a band "Little Green Men" who played on till late.

What a great end to an incredible day. Well done to the Luggate Hotel for hosting such a wonderful event. I know I won't be the only one lining up again next year.