Our teams meet in Ruatorea to muster in the horses from the hills. It’s action stations as they herd up feral stallions for selection in the yards and things get dicey in these confined spaces.

With the horses in their new homes, it is time to get. the all-important first touch. It is a tricky and sensitive moment. But one horse does not make it.

The first stage of the competition in Ruatoki, the first time in 30 days, the teams have seen each other. What progress has been made? Along with the horse sports competition the Native Riders have their own 12 obstacle challenge.

The teams travel to the far north where Manaia and Marino host the next stage challenge. And with Cyclone Gabrielle closing in will they be able to finish the stage before a natural disaster strikes the country.

Cyclone Gabrielle has bashed the upper north and east coasts of the North Island. All of the Native Ride teams have been affected. Will the teams be ready for the final stage in Opotiki?