Vision: Enrich lives through volunteering
Mission: Connect people and transform communities

Horsin’ Around Companion

Hamilton
Organisation:
Waikato Equitherapy
Category:
Youth & Children
Hours:
Both/Flexible

Waikato Equitherapy Incorporated: Creating Joy and Confidence Through Equine Therapy

Who We Are:

  • Waikato Equitherapy offers horse riding and interaction opportunities to children and adults with special needs in Hamilton and the wider Waikato area.

Our Team:

  • A passionate group of dedicated volunteers, committed staff, and an amazing herd of therapy horses work together to make a difference.

Our Impact:

  • Riders benefit physically, emotionally, and socially from their time at the Centre.
  • Weekly progress brings confidence, joy, and a sense of achievement for our riders.
  • Volunteers, work-experience participants, and holiday program attendees also gain a sense of belonging and community.

Why We Love What We Do:

  • The Centre is a hub of support, connection, and shared purpose, where everyone—from riders to volunteers—thrives together.

About the Role:

  • Walk alongside the horse and rider for at least 40 minutes per session.
  • Assist riders with their balance and provide support to help them complete activities.

Join us in creating life-changing moments for our riders and building a community of connection and care!

Requirements:
  • Reliable, trustworthy, and possess strong communication skills.
  • Comfortable around horses (no prior experience needed—comprehensive training will be provided).
  • Physically capable of walking unaided for at least 40 minutes.
  • Comfortable interacting with children and adults with learning and physical disabilities.
  • Patient, friendly, and encouraging in nature.
  • Fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

A Police background check is required for this role.

Time commitment:

We deeply appreciate any time you can dedicate to supporting us—it makes a real difference!

  • Our riders especially love seeing familiar faces, so if you’re available on a weekly basis, that would be fantastic.

Centre Hours During Term Time:

  • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Saturday: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Your involvement brings joy and continuity to our riders' experience—thank you for being part of our community!

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.

Ref: 2184

Apply for this role:

Address: *

Demographic information:
Used anonymously for statistics to demonstrate our impact to funders.
Other information (optional):
In applying for this position I confirm that I have read the requirements of the position and believe I have the skills and attributes required to carry out this role safely and effectively.
Subscribe

Keep up to date with our newsletter for volunteers: