Over the three years it has been held, the fundraiser for Wanaka Primary School and Montessori Children’s House Wanaka has grown from 300 registrations to a record 859 this year.
Wanaka Primary School board member Hamish McLean said over that period it had raised more than $80,000 to be shared between the two schools and $1500 for the Returned and Services Association, in recognition of the event taking place over the Anzac weekend.
This year the ride raised $20,000 for each of the schools and $860 for the RSA through entry fees.
He said Wanaka Primary would use the money to develop its new outdoor "fit trail" and Montessori Children’s House would develop its outdoor area.
More than 100km of trails were opened up on Deep Creek, Long Gully and Lindis Peaks high country stations, offering rides for more advanced and expert riders, as well as continuing the popular "peewee" course for beginners.
Danseys Pass Trail Ride committee member Kirsten Powell said the event provided amazing views, good tracks and it was really well organised.
"It’s great to support other trail rides and it was such a buzz to have so many riders there," she said.
