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 ABI'S NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP

 Pony & Horse riding school

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Equine Therapy & Equine-Assisted Experiences

CONNECT, LEARN & GROW THROUGH HORSES

Discover natural horsemanship and equine-assisted learning with Abi’s Natural Horsemanship near Lincoln, Selwyn.

 

Friendly, confidence-building sessions for all ages. Call 027 649 4685.

EQUINE THERAPY & EQUINE-ASSISTED EXPERIENCES

 
Connect, Learn & Grow Through Horses
Horses have an incredible ability to help us slow down, become present, and develop greater self-awareness.

Why Horses?

Unlike people, horses respond honestly and naturally to our body language, emotions, and energy. This creates powerful opportunities for learning, reflection, and personal development.

 

Working alongside horses can help participants:

 

Build self-confidence

✓ Improve communication skills

✓ Develop trust and relationship-building skills

✓ Increase emotional awareness

✓ Enhance problem-solving abilities

✓ Improve focus and mindfulness

✓ Reduce stress and promote wellbeing

✓ Strengthen resilience and self-belief

 

No previous horse experience is required.

We have two levels of Equine Assisted Experiences.

Abi and her team of horses can facilitate Equine Experiences at Waterholes Road on the outskirts of Christchurch in the Selwyn district. 


Equine Assisted Experiences include: ​
 

  • Ground-based horse interactions

  • Leading and handling exercises

  • Building trust and connection with horses

  • Observation and reflection activities

  • Confidence-building exercises

  • Natural horsemanship principles

  • Personal growth and goal-setting activities

 
Our Equine Assisted Experiences are suitable for: ​​

  • Children and Teenagers

  • Individuals wanting to build confidence – Clients have noticed an increase in mood, awareness, motivation, confidence and competence from time spent with horses performing ground based tasks.

  • People experiencing everyday stress – Time with horses has been proven to reduce stress and help people become more present and feel more regulated.

  • Families looking for unique learning experiences - Activities can be created to support families to work on equine tasks together, developing team skills, cooperation and support.

  • Horse lovers who want a deeper connection and understanding.

 
Every participant is unique, and sessions are adapted to suit individual needs and comfort levels. Every engagement begins with defining what you are looking for from your session, and a session plan is created with your practitioner.

Participants learn alongside calm, well-handled horses while developing skills that can transfer into everyday life

Why Choose Abi’s Natural Horsemanship?

  • Experienced natural horsemanship approach

  • Supportive and welcoming environment

  • Individualised sessions

  • Focus on confidence and connection

  • Suitable for beginners and experienced horse people alike

  • A safe and supportive environment
     

Abi is a Natural Horsemanship trainer and coach, and facilitates Equine Assisted Experiences. Abi is not a trained mental health practitioner. However, Abi works in partnership with Sara Scott, a Trauma Counsellor, who facilitates Equine Assisted Therapy.  For more information on this please see below:

 
Equine Assisted Therapy:


EAP is a model for individuals and groups to explore personal growth and wellbeing, to support their mental health, relationships, manage stress, anxiety, depression or recover from trauma.
Sara Scott facilitates a 6 week Equine Assisted Therapy program from Waterholes road for private individuals or those with ACC Sensitive Claims. Please contact Sara on Sara@thecouch.nz or visit her website www.thecouch.nz

 

Why This Approach Feels Different

Many horse-based programmes focus primarily on riding skills or structured therapeutic outcomes.

 
Abi’s Natural Horsemanship takes a more relationship-based approach, where the emphasis is
placed on understanding horses, developing trust, building confidence, and creating meaningful
experiences at a pace that feels comfortable for each individual.

Whether you’re seeking personal growth, greater confidence, emotional well-being, or simply the
joy of spending time around horses, each session is tailored to meet you where you are.

No pressure. No judgement. Just authentic experiences with remarkable animals.


Ready to Learn More?
​ 
Contact Abi’s Natural Horsemanship today to discuss a personalised equine-assisted session and the costs involved.

Let's Connect

PHONE ABI ON: ‭027 649 4685‬

EMAIL ABI ON: rickettsabi@gmail.com 

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