Therapeutic Riding
EquiSucceed NZ programs are designed and delivered by a dedicated team of coaches, therapists and volunteers for people with physical, intellectual and emotional challenges, helping to give them strength of body, mind and spirit.
Our programs are designed to complement conventional therapies and special needs education, and are designed to meet rigorous safety standards and practices.
Our skilled EquiSucceed NZ team and other medical and educational professionals work collaboratively to ensure every rider has a unique programme that takes into account their abilities, needs and personal goals.
Interactions with the horse and the effects of its movement on the human body have significant therapeutic benefits.
Please read Our Riders & FAQs below on this page. We think you will be pleasantly surprised how much equine assisted therapy can help a wide variety of people.
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Feel free to contact us to enquire about how to become an Equisucceed rider, how we may accommodate your group, and costs.
Program Term Dates 2025
Term One:
Tuesday 7th January to Thursday 10th April 2025
Term Two
Monday 28th April to Thursday 26th June 2025
Term Three
Monday 14th July to Thursday 18th September 2025
Term Four
Monday 6th October to Wednesday 18th December 2025
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FAQ
The Answers You Need
What types of "disabilities" respond to equine-assisted therapy?
More than you might think... Here are a few
Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Cerebral Palsy
Cystic Fibrosis
C.V.A. (stroke)
Developmental Delay
Downs Syndrome
Intellectual Disability, Learning Disability
Hearing and Visual Impairments
Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy
Spina Bifida
Spinal Cord Injury (Para/Quadriplegia).
Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia
And many more...
How is riding a horse therapeutic for the body?
The gentle movement of the horse at walk assists many physical challenges, helping to develop strength and coordination, while also stimulating gentle stretching and relaxing, including:
Greater muscle tone, balance, coordination, muscle strength
Better flexibility, fitness, posture, gait (ability to walk)
Improved respiration, circulation, metabolism
Increased sensory perception and integration
More independence: improved mobility and ability to self-care
Is that all they do - walk around on horseback?
No, there are many learning stations and activities set up around the arena that the riders do from horseback. These activities help with physical coordination, cognitive processes and are fun.
Does riding only help with physical disability?
No, it is a holistic therapy bringing positive change to body, mind and spirit. There is something very special about the connection between rider and horse that lifts a rider's spirit and helps instill confidence.
There is often a fair bit of hugging, stroking and subtle communicating with their horse that goes on too... No wonder our horses love their job! ​
Do the benefits only last during the riding session?
Positive achievements each week, both physical and psychological add up over time to help develop core strength and self-esteem, and allows riders to experience life beyond the confines of their disabilities.
The anticipation of the next ride with their equine friend gives riders something positive to focus on when away from their horse.Also, riding and equestrian skills are transferable to many aspects of daily life. Often the benefits are felt at home by the rider's family too.
So.... How does EquiSucceed help someone with physical, psychological and social challenges?
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Psychological abilities: Concentration, problem solving and decision making, insight, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, learning/practicing concepts e.g. letters, numbers, colours, distances, shapes etc.
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Social abilities: Communication and social skills, learning appropriate behaviour and manners, interaction with peers: individuals and groups, human/animal contact and bonding, building relationships, consideration for others and taking on responsibility.
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Recreational/sport/vocational abilities: Equestrian skills and horse management, develop interests, broaden experiences, challenge and success in competition with self and others, stimulation and/or relaxation, integration and community participation, work experience.
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Physical abilities: Muscle tone, balance, coordination, muscle strength, flexibility, fitness, posture, gait (ability to walk), respiration, circulation, metabolism, sensory perception and integration, independence: self-care and mobility.
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These are just some of the reasons we LOVE Equisucceed NZ!
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