Low rehoming rates a concern for Kaimanawa wild horses
More than 200 Kaimanawa horses will need homes after an extra big muster – the first in two years – and there aren’t many applications so far.
Kaimanawa Heritage Horses (KHH) is desperately seeking new homes for 230 wild horses which will be removed from the ranges near Waiouru during the muster.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) has confirmed there are 530 horses in the Kaimanawa Ranges after last year’s muster was cancelled due to damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023.
Now numbers are confirmed, KHH committee member Marilyn Jenks said there’s a push to find as many homes as possible for the 230 horses which will need to be removed in April or June, this year’s possible muster dates.
“There are a greater number of horses in the ranges as the muster was cancelled last year due to the cyclone causing damage to property and roads,” she said.
“Alternative options will need to be explored if homes cannot be found, as maintaining the herd of 300 allows for the horses to maintain the best condition, while also protecting the fragile ecosystems unique to the Moawhango Ecological Zone.”
KHH contraception spokesperson
Sue Millard was hopeful the use of contraception for mares would reduce the number of musters and horses having to be removed over time, but this project was still in its infancy.
Jenks said KHH was urging people interested in taking a horse from the muster to get in touch with it now.
“Kaimanawa horses are known to be curious, honest, and friendly, and are trained for a variety of equine disciplines, and are now being seen in the upper levels of equine competitions.
“They are gaining favour among the equestrian community as highly competitive sport horses, pony club mounts and good all-rounders.”
She said KHH continued to work on the development of training incentives, including the annual Stallion Challenge competition, and ways for people to experience the taming of a wild horse themselves, or having one trained by a proven professional.
“With low numbers of applications for horses received to date, time is fast running out for interested parties to apply before the application deadline in early April.
“KHH is more than happy to offer prospective new owners support and advice, and encourage anyone interested to get in touch now.”
For infomation and applications visit kaimanawaheritagehorses.org, or email muster@kaimanawaheritagehorses.org.