Stars and Springs Overnight (natural hot springs)

Cowstream springs, St James conservation area

MH
20 reviews
Duration: 2 days
Group size: 1 - 4
Stars and Springs Overnight (natural hot springs)
Cowstream springs, St James conservation area

20 reviews

NZ$NaN
Duration: 2 days
Group size: 1 - 4

About this trip

Accommodation

About freedom camping

Participation requirements

Food

Will there be other people?

What to bring with you

Safety

Cancellation

Weather conditions

What’s included

  • Experienced guide
    trained in outdoor and first aid
  • Sure-footed horse
    carefully matched to your ability
  • Equipment
    All tack and riding equipment, helmets provided
  • Tipi accomodation
    2 people per tent, with woodturner stoves on colder nights (let us know if you would like a single occupation)
  • Camping gear
    tents, cooking equipment, group supplies
  • Hearty camp meals
    lunch on arrival, dinner and breakfast, tea/coffee, something sweet
  • Drinking water
  • Small group experience
    exclusive to your group + guide
  • Sat communication device
    carried by your guide for emergencies

What’s not included

  • Transport
    To and from St James Homestead
  • Sleeping bag
    must be suitable for alpine conditions
  • Clothing & footwear
    layers, waterproof jackets, spare cloths, riding boots / closed-toe shoes (hiking boots) - not sneakers in wet weather!
  • Personal toiletries
  • Towel
  • Travel insurance
    highly recommended for all riders

Available Packages

Sprigns and Stars for two
Available until 7 days before departure
NZ$1,100
Springs and Stars for 3 people.
Available until 7 days before departure
NZ$1,100
Springs and Stars for 4
Available until 7 days before departure
NZ$1,100


Your Organizer


MH
Mountain Horses Outfitters
20 reviews
We are a boutique horse trekking company based in Hanmer Springs, New Zealand, offering rides from 1.5-hour scenic treks to multi-day wilderness expeditions. With access to over 78,000 hectares of the St James Conservation Area, we cater to all riding levels — from beginners to experienced riders. Guests can soak in natural hot pools, camp beside their horses, and experience the high country the way early explorers once did — off-grid, authentic, and unforgettable.

Reviews

Very definitely my most favourite activity so far during my 4 week New Zealand travels. I am an occasional rider and try to fit in a ride or two wherever I take a trip in the world. But this was a huge cut above other places I have been and experiences had! The stunning location, the variety within the ride, the horses and our guide, Milo all farrrrr exceeded my expectations! Milo and his partner took over the business a year ago, and own the riding concession for the whole of this area of outstanding beauty. MIlo is a horseman with a passion for people, places and life, and it shows through his engaging personality, and his obvious love of, and care for, his horses. I rode his wife’s horse ‘Spring ‘, a beautiful and intelligent mare. They also offer trips way beyond this 1 1/2 hour spectacular adventure ride. I’d jump at doing one of those too! I managed to make it up to their mountain base with not problems in my little 2WD car. 🚙 Best Day Ever!
By Clive T for Backcountry Scenic Ride 1.5 hours. Morning on Feb 27, 2026
Amazing experience. If you enjoy riding this is a must do. Beautiful scenery, fantastic horses and great guide in Milo. Highly recommended
By peter a for Backcountry Scenic Ride 1.5 hours. Morning on Feb 24, 2026
I had an absolutely fabulous time. Could not have asked for more. Thank you so much!
By Sara M for Backcountry Scenic Ride 1.5 hours. Afternoon on Feb 15, 2026
Gorgeous scenery (even on the 1.5 hour ride), friendly guides, beautiful and well cared-for horses... One of the best horse rides I've been on, and an absolute must-do activity for anyone in the Hanmer area!
By Julie B for Backcountry Scenic Ride 1.5 hours. Afternoon on Feb 11, 2026
We had a fabulous time with Milo leading us on this morning ride. Its been on my bucket list to ride in the south island mountains for some time. It was a lovely sunny day and we could see for miles. The land is so vast- its breath taking! We had lovely calm horses to ride on and comfy saddles. Milo was a great guy to travel with. He told us amusing stories. I will go back another time. I fully reccomend this trip to anyone who likes riding and exploring the great outdoors.
By Fiona V for Backcountry Scenic Ride 1.5 hours. Morning on Feb 04, 2026
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References

5/5 ⭐️ A massive thanks for the ‘Stars & Springs’ trip! Myself and my partner did this and it genuinely was one of the best experiences of both of ours lives! The Incredible weather helped, but all in all it was a perfect overnight trip. A great distance (about 15km in & out ) and an amazing campsite spot near the river and a a short walk to the pools. It was tucked away in a cute valley. The pools were fun (and very hot) but going for a trot just the 4 of us in the afternoon was just bliss and a true highlight - we got to go as fast as we wanted and did some more tricker bits. Milo and Jurgen (the guides) were the kindest, most respectful and helpful guides ever! From the prep, the gear & the communication. We always felt safe and they were on our time. We absolutely recommend to anyone. Loved every minute
By Ben M on 21 Jan, 2026