Matakana Carriages

Rides operate most weekends, or the wagon can be privately booked for a specific occasion — birthdays and private functions are a regular part of what they do.

It suits families who want something a little different from the usual playground visit: younger children tend to be wide-eyed at the horses up close, while older kids enjoy the gentle rumble and the open-air ride. Adults get a rare chance to simply sit back and take in the Matakana surrounds at a horse's pace.