School Holiday Riding Program

The Waimak River Riding Centre Limited, a local Horse Riding club in Christchurch, is excited to invite children aged 8 to 16 years to join their School Holiday Riding Program. This program, which has been running since July 2008, offers a fantastic opportunity for children to learn how to ride and care for horses in a safe and friendly environment.

During the program, children will enjoy a range of activities designed to be both fun and educational. From pony care and riding lessons to games on ponies and tailored theory lessons, there is something for everyone, regardless of their age or experience level. The program is led by experienced adult riding instructors who have a wealth of knowledge in training, competing, and teaching children to ride.

Running from 9am to 3.00pm each day for two weeks during the school holidays (except the summer break, where it runs for 13 weekdays), the program also offers before and after program care. This convenient option allows parents to drop off and pick up their children while still being able to attend to their work commitments.

As an added highlight, the program includes an Annual Mini Show. This event gives children without ponies the chance to experience competing in equine competitions, while those with their own ponies can participate in a fun-filled day of games, jumping, and show rings. The Mini Show, which takes place on the first Sunday after the summer program, offers prize ribbons from 1st to 4th place. Entry forms for the Mini Show will be available online from January 2024.

Mark these dates in your calendar! The next School Holiday Riding Program is scheduled for January 8th to 12th, 15th to 19th, and 22nd to 24th in 2023. The Mini Show will take place on January 28th.

Throughout the program, children can look forward to an array of activities, including gymkhana events like the egg and spoon race and barrel races, overnight campouts, pony care lessons, jumping lessons for all skill levels, dressage, trail rides, supervised swimming in the Waimakariri river (with and without the ponies), and exciting daily competitions with prizes. At the end of each week, the most improved rider will be recognised with a special certificate featuring a photo of themselves and their pony.

To reserve your child's place in this fantastic program, booking in advance is required, and pre-payment is necessary. The cost for the program is $85 per day per child or $80 per day per child for 5 consecutive days (Full Week $400). For more information and to make a booking, please contact [contact information]. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to introduce your child to the world of horse riding and care!