Horses, hope and heart at EquiSucceed
On the shores of Lake Rotorua in Ngongotahā, a team of staff, volunteers and horses is helping people overcome challenges and discover new possibilities.
EquiSucceed NZ provides Equine-Assisted Services for children and adults living with physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and behavioural challenges. Operating from leased land at 110 Parawai Rd, the charity currently supports around 80 clients aged between four and 29.
Development manager Lou Transom says horses have a unique ability to connect with people in ways that can be life-changing.
“Horses meet people exactly where they are,” Lou says. “Their honesty, sensitivity and non-judgmental nature make them powerful partners in learning and growth.”
Participants attending EquiSucceed live with a wide range of conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, muscle weakness and other disabilities. Through therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities, clients can develop confidence, communication skills, emotional regulation and resilience, while also gaining physical benefits such as improved balance, coordination and strength.
For many participants, the relationship with a favourite horse becomes a powerful motivator.
“Arriving at EquiSucceed often means seeing a horse they have built a connection with waiting for them,” Lou says. “That sense of belonging and achievement can flow through into school, home and everyday life.”
The organisation operates with six staff, six regular volunteers and a board of trustees. While programmes can run without volunteers, Lou says their contribution significantly enhances participants’ experience.
“Our volunteers are the smiling faces in the arena, the helping hands preparing horses and the encouraging voices celebrating every achievement,” she says.
One of those volunteers is Gav Muir, who has been involved with the organisation for more than a decade.
Gav first joined when the organisation operated as Riding for the Disabled before later becoming EquiSucceed. After working as an assistant coach and farm coordinator, he retired two years ago but continues volunteering twice a week.
“I really love it, especially the special-needs children,” Gav says. “Every time I go, it’s all about making sure the kids have fun.”
A former dairy farmer, Gav brings practical skills that help keep the facility running smoothly. He assists with feeding horses, mowing, fencing, maintenance work and supporting riding sessions.
But it is his personal experience that fuels his commitment.
When he was 20, Gav suffered a serious head injury in a car accident and spent time in a coma.
“When I first came out of my coma, I couldn’t talk or even see,” he says. “I know how hard it is to get back to being normal.”
That experience helps him relate to many of the young people he works alongside.
“I know what these kids are going through,” he says. “I use body language and interaction, and seeing the smile on their faces at the end is more than worth it.”
Lou says volunteers like Gav are central to the organisation’s success.
“Gav brings incredible energy and encouragement to every session,” she says. “He helps create a positive environment where students can build confidence and enjoy themselves.”
EquiSucceed’s programme receives no government operating funding and relies on grants, fundraising, sponsorship and modest client fees to continue its work.
The organisation also hires out its large, covered, all-weather arena for equestrian events, dog activities, sports training, birthday parties, and community events. Its annual golf fundraiser is another important source of support.
Lou says community involvement remains essential.
“We’re always interested in hearing from people with horse experience who may like to volunteer,” she says. “We also welcome people with specialist skills who can help strengthen the organisation in other ways.”
For Lou, the impact of EquiSucceed comes down to the connections formed between people, horses and community.
“Every ride, every smile and every achievement reminds us why this work matters,” she says. “Together, we’re creating opportunities where barriers break down, confidence grows, and lives are transformed.”
To learn more about volunteer opportunities across the Bay of Plenty, visit the Volunteering Services website www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call 07 987 0920.
