Wellington Riding for the Disabled

Our purpose is to provide interaction with horses to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for people experiencing disability, or who have specific challenges or needs.

We aim to enable and support people to achieve good lives including meaningful participation in, and contribution to, important life activities and roles in their community.

OUR 3 CORE PROGRAMMES INCLUDE:

1. THERAPY - using riding skills, alternative positioning and saddles or equipment to stimulate all parts of the body, build muscle strength, improve coordination and balance and may improve walking ability.

2. EDUCATION - focuses on school aged riders, with goals that are linked to the NZ curriculum.

3. SPORT & RECREATION - offers exercise and active recreation and leisure activities in a challenging, fun and supportive environment.

For those not able to ride there is an unmounted option which focuses on developing and extending self-confidence, responsibility, self-esteem, participation, social engagement and interaction, recreational and vocational skills. Including - safe handling of a pony, grooming and picking up feet, leading, feeding, and general horse care skills.

WRDA also offers Equine assisted therapy (EAGALA), an internationally recognised form of professional counselling that helps clients address behavioral, emotional and relational issues by using horses as an intervention tool.

Your support helps us to keep our horses fit, healthy and happy so that we can continue to provide these programmes.