A Cardrona Valley attraction has adapted to changes brought about by COVID-19 by developing exclusive, customised experiences for their clients.

The Cardrona sightseeing activity centre, established in 2013, offers family friendly guided horse trekking and quad biking adventures in the Cardrona Valley.

The different options provide a range of ways for people to experience the scenic valley, which has rugged high country scenery and gold mining history. The business is also part of a working sheep, cattle and deer farm; and the historic Cardrona Hotel is incorporated as a stop on some of the horse treks and quad bike tours.

Owner Kelly Spaans said the COVID-19 restrictions resulted in a “massive downturn” in bookings and numbers through the door, as most of visitors were from overseas, with very few Kiwis.

Quad bike tours visit the working high country farm where the business is sited.

Kelly had to downsize substantially, selling almost half her quad bikes and horses, liquidating other assets and making some staff redundant.

The Cardrona now employs just two full time horse and quad bike guides.

“And of course we have nine of the four-legged variety,” Kelly said.

There are a range of horse trekking options, from beginner riders to advanced.

Kelly has adapted by refocusing the business as a more exclusive, customised experience for clients, appealing to couples and small or private groups - such as family groups and even hen parties. 

“The decision to stay small also makes for a more sustainable future as [far as] our vulnerable ecosystem is concerned,” she said.

Kelly also offers a ten per cent discount off the total price of tours booked directly with her by telephone or email, and said she is grateful for local support during this challenging time.

The business now employs just two humans and nine horses.

She said it has been great to see the number of Kiwis who are getting out and seeing their own backyard.

“I have been pleasantly surprised and pleased with the steady stream of visitors which has kept us afloat since restrictions were lifted. I am constantly hearing people say ‘this has been on my bucket list’, or ‘this is my first time to the South Island and it is so amazing”,” she said

“And the number of people referring their friends and relatives to come riding with us has been fantastic. The Kiwis we are taking out on the horses and quads are excited and proud to be enjoying their own little piece of paradise and happy to support operators such as us and spend their holiday dollars here that would have otherwise gone overseas.”

“Come and enjoy the Cardrona Valley while we still have it all to ourselves,” Kelly said.

Find more information about The Cardrona and the range of activities and tours here.

PHOTOS: Supplied