Therapeutic Riding (RDA) is a specialised service that adapts horse riding to meet the individual needs of each rider. Our programmes deliver a wide range of proven health and wellbeing benefits, supporting physical, emotional, and social development.
At RDA, our goal is to enable and empower riders to achieve positive health and wellness outcomes through a professional, high-quality, and safe riding programme delivered by trained staff and dedicated volunteers.
We offer four core, tailored RDA programme pathways designed to support the diverse goals of our riders. You can find more information about our core RDA programmes below. In addition, our Riding School and Holiday Programmes provide enjoyable riding opportunities for those who may not be suited to our core RDA programmes.
Our Core RDA Riding Programmes
Therapy Programme
Our Therapeutic programme is individually tailored for each rider and developed in collaboration with a New Zealand-registered therapist. Every rider has unique goals and desired outcomes, and our programme is designed to support those specific needs.
Therapeutic riding incorporates riding skills, alternative positioning, and the use of specialised saddles or adaptive equipment where required. The movement of the horse provides whole-body stimulation, helping to build muscle strength, enhance coordination, and improve balance in a safe and supportive environment.
Click here for term dates, costs, and enrolment information.
Educational Programme
Our Educational programme has a strong learning element, and riding skills learnt can be transferred to many other aspects of daily life.
All learning curriculum in New Zealand schools are based around key competencies through well-designed riding programmes. We can incorporate these key competencies into all we do:
They include the following:
1 - Thinking
2 - Using language, symbols and text
3 - Managing self
4 - Participation and contributing
5 - Relating to others
Click here for term dates, costs, and enrolment information.
Sport and Recreational Programme
Our sport and recreational riding programme offers exercise and active recreation and leisure activities in a challenging, fun and supportive environment. All riders have individual set outcomes/goals and these may include pathways to pony club and riding schools. They will develop transferable skills to succeed in other activities outside of the arena. Recreational riding can help maintain a riders independence and functionality.
Click here for term dates, costs, and enrolment information.
Life Skills Programme
Our life skills programme focuses on building confidence, self-esteem, compassion and social skills in children and youth. The programme is designed for clients with social challenges such as low self-esteem or anxiety, with a focus on wellbeing.
Ultimately, the programme builds confidence as riders take on new challenges and learn to trust themselves, their team and their horses. Each session helps participants grow in courage, resilience, and self-assurance, creating a sense of empowerment that extends beyond the arena and into everyday life.
Click here for term dates, costs, and enrolment information.
Riding School and Holiday Programme
Our Riding School and Holiday Programmes offer enjoyable riding opportunities for those not enrolled in our core RDA programmes.
Holiday Programme
Saddle Up for Holiday Fun!
Looking for an unforgettable holiday activity? Join our Own Your Own Pony Holiday Programme (horses provided) and experience the magic of horses! Perfect for beginners through to confident riders, our programme offers hands-on learning, fun riding sessions, horse care, games, and outdoor adventures. Build confidence, make new friends, and create lasting memories in a safe and supportive environment.
Click here for more information, fees and registration.
Riding School
For the first 8 weeks of every school term we run a Riding School after school on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. This is an opportunity to give children the chance to learn how to ride a horse. Whether they are a complete beginner or have had horse riding lessons before we are able to offer a riding programme.
Click here for more information, fees and registration.