The Gisborne Riding for Disabled (also known as the Gisborne RDA) is a not-for-profit organisation which provides opportunities for anyone with a disability to enjoy safe, healthy, stimulating, therapeutic horse riding and horse related activities in the East Coast region. Volunteering offers the opportunity to witness firsthand the transformative impact you make on rider’s lives. Whether it’s a child learning how to improve balance or an adult with mobility issues taking confident strides, the change is not just in them; it’s a change you get to see and feel within yourself too.
Our coaches run our classes, but we need volunteers to handle and control the horses when the riders are not able to. Being confident and able to read horse behaviour is important, as is being able to take full control of the horse and/or inform the Coach/Assistant Coach if a situation changes. Depending on the rider, you may also be supported by a Sidewalker for extra support.
We provide an extensive induction and training programme, in line with NZRDAs policies and procedures. NZRDA also provides the opportunity to complete NZQA qualifications, such as Equine Skills (Level 2), Assistant Coach (Level 3), and Coach (Level 4).
Our classes run Monday - Thursday, from 9am - 12pm. Reach out for a discussion to see what suits.
Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below.
We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.
Animal Care