GENERAL:
Get permission. Check if permission is required from landowners before heading out. Access to private land is a privelege, not a right. The local riding club, regional council, city council, DOC, or BRIDLEWAYS will probably know who owns the land.
If riding in a group and you have an inexperienced rider with you, always consider this rider's ability. A "hoon" up a hill or over a nice large paddock is always fun for an experienced rider, but an "out of control bolt" is terrifying for a beginner
On longer rides or with larger groups, make sure that someone in your group is carrying a first aid kit and is trained in first aid. Many horse clubs can arrange for these courses for their members. A cellphone can be useful in an emergency
Always inform someone of your plans, including location, route, number in your group, and your intended time of return
REMOVE HORSE DROPPINGS where necessary - take a little shovel with you!
Wear a high-vis vest where visibility is an issue.
RESPECT OTHERS
Always give way to others. Even if it seems inconvenient, being considerate will foster a positive attitude towards horse riders.
Move aside if you encounter walkers or bikers.
Pass walkers with care Avoid startling walkers. If you suspect that this will happen, call out a greeting as you approach. Use this opportunity to improve the public profile of horse riders
Don't upset livestock Give animals a chance to get out of your way.
Always leave farm gates as you find them. If you're riding at some distance from others in the group, don't assume that riders following you will know to close a gate that you have left open for them. Make sure that the gate gets closed.
Be prepared to be excluded from farmland at lambing time, usually from July to October.
