Horses Helping Humans Taranaki, Hōiho Hāpai Hapori

All rangatahi should be able to access mental health support when they need it, in order to get well and stay well. Horses Helping Humans Taranaki, Hōiho Hāpai Hapori (HHH) is an equine assisted learning programme that helps vulnerable rangatahi gain tools to proactively manage anxiety, anger and low self confidence. This in turn improves their assertive communication; their decision making when under pressure; and strengthens their resilience.

In 2022, it was reported that our mental health system was at "breaking point" - Taranaki Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service had 262 active cases and 170 cases waiting. Some wait times were more than 2 years to receive support desperately needed! HHH has been proven to meet the needs of many of these rangatahi. In 2025, 118 rangatahi attended HHH and we found funding for 92 of these to attend free of charge.

We currently have over 30 rangatahi on our waitlist wanting to attend HHH during Terms 3 and 4, many of whom are neurodivergent or have experienced trauma. Our programme relies on the support of local funders and donors from the Taranaki Community. Help us help and empower rangatahi in Taranaki. Donate today so that these vulnerable rangatahi can complete our Horses Helping Humans Taranaki programme and receive the mental health support they need.

**Horses Helping Humans Taranaki, Hōiho Hāpai Hapori is an approved license centre for Horses Helping Humans ™