Our Amazing Staff

My love for all things equine began as a 7 year old when I stole my sisters pony "Kiwi" and this passion continues to this day.

I was a foundation member of Rosedale Pony Club which started on my Great Uncles farm in Albany. I stayed with pony club until aged 21, gaining my H (Honours) Certificate and coaching at my branch. After some time as a Registered nurse and then flight attendant, I returned to coaching, initially working with my sister at her riding School on the family Orchard in Albany and then setting up my own school in Waitoki, where I have taught many riders of all ages here for the last 30 years. I hold my NZ Equestrian Federation Community Coach Certificate and am looking forward to working on my therapeutic riding certification with the support of NSRDA. 

​

I have three wonderful adult children who all rode. We rejoined pony club and I served on pony club committees, in coach support roles and as District Commissioner for Waitemata. My husband Mike and I both competed, mostly in eventing, and still ride when time allows.

​

I especially enjoy watching riders develop and grow as they progress on their equine journey. I truly believe that connection with a horse is good for our body, mind and soul.

I have been with North Shore RDA for a few years now and thoroughly enjoy the varied nature of my job. I get to spend my time with lovely volunteers, amazing horses and children who benefit hugely from what we do - what more could I ask?

​

I have a recent background in classroom teaching and as a teenager competed in Eventing and Show-jumping. After a horse hiatus of 20 or so years I am excited about being around horses again.

​

I live on the Hibiscus Coast with my husband, Mathew and our two adult children who come and go, three cats and two lovely spoodles; Alfie & Flint. We spend our time mountain biking or at the beach.

I have lived in NZ for almost 5 years, having moved here with my family; husband Chris and two sons aged 13 and 10.  We also have a 25 year old son and our first grandchild in the UK.

​

I have worked with horses all my life and hold British Horse Society stage 1, 2 and 3 in horse management and care. "horses are my passion and life."

 

I have worked in many aspects of the horse world, some of my most memorable years were at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, which is the UK's largest equine sanctuary, where I helped to look after over 1,200 horses ponies and donkeys.

 

Since being in NZ and not working with horses, I have busied myself fostering over 50 dogs and puppies for the Saving Hope Foundation. I have a dog called Ruby (a Saving Hope rescue) and two donkeys, Stanley and Ollie at home, both aged 20.