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Virtually Horses

Okura is a tidal estuary that runs between Stillwater\Weiti and Long Bay.  At low tide you can use this area for riding and on a fine day it makes for a lovely and unusual ride.  The ride begins in the village of Okura, where you can park at the local community centre.  Ride down the road until you reach the river.  At low tide you can ride across to the opposite estuary bank without too much trouble.  Look for the channel marker poles and stick close to them when crossing to ensure good footing. 

Once on the other side you can ride right around to Stillwater and the Weiti river basin. Along the way you can see plenty of birdlife, the occasional stingray in the shallows and  have a great time in the water.       

The banks of the river can be quite muddy so plan ahead and take things slowly if you're not sure of the footing.  If your horse goes into the mud, don't panic it'll only sink up to it's knees for a couple of strides and find it quite easy to get out as long as you sit still.  For the most part riding is quite safe and the mix of sand and estuarine mud makes for a nice springy surface for the horses.  There are many places where you may have to ride your horse through the water which is great fun and once used to it the horses have a ball splashing and playing with the salty spray. 

There are also a couple of nice sandy beaches where you can have a canter once you ride around toward stillwater and the Weiti River.  Do take care - these beaches are used by nesting birds and you should ensure that you stay clear of marked nesting sites.

The area can easily keep you occupied for a couple of hours relaxed riding.

How to Get There

Okura is located just to the north of Long Bay and is accessed Okura River Rd which runs off East Coast Bays Rd. From the South it is next on the right past Glenvar Rd. If you are coming from the North Okura River Rd is a sharp left hairpin turn from East Coast Bays Rd after Brian Davies Rd (which doesn't appear on the maps as it is a private, gated, road).  

Follow Okura River Rd until you find the community centre.  It's just past the 50kph speed limit sign so slow down and be prepared to turn left into the driveway.  Park and unload at the community centre and you are a short ride to the River.  The community hall driveway is a nice loop so you don't have to worry about reversing but do ensure that you are considerate of the community users and ensure that your vehicle doesn't obstruct other vehicles or make a mess of the area.

Important Points to Remember!