Riding For The Disabled loves stable, new home
Wellington’s disabled riders finally have a stable new home for their horses.
With a 35-year lease on public land and work started on an allweather arena, the future was looking bright for Wellington Riding For The Disabled, project manager Donna Kennedy said.
The move had also allowed the organisation to double the number of riders it helps.
‘‘It’s so positive that I just about dance out of bed every morning. This time two years ago, we thought we’d be closing down.’’
In 2016, after losing the Porirua site Riding For The Disabled had operated from for 30 years, Greater Wellington Regional Council came to the rescue with an offer of land at Battle Hill Farm Forest Park, on Paeka¯ ka¯ riki Hill Rd.
The organisation provides horsebased therapy for people with disabilities. The long lease gave it the opportunity to help more people, said Kennedy. ‘‘We’ve doubled our riders to 80 a week and started a new programme.’’
Construction on the arena has begun and it will be officially opened in October, when the group marks its 45th year.
The organisation’s 10 horses were enjoying the bigger space at the park, Kennedy added. ‘‘They get to run as a herd and they have hills to keep their muscles toned up, which is important for the work they do.’’
Regional councillor and parks portfolio leader Prue Lamason said the group was a welcome addition to the park. The arena and grazing areas were chosen to minimise impacts on the park, other visitors and farming areas, she said.
‘‘We’re always keen to accommodate healthy recreational activities in our parks.’’