“During term Two and Three this year (2006) groups of students from Maidstone Intermediate have participated in horse riding at Thompsons Horse Centre. Each group of students participated in two one and a half hour sessions designed to give children the experience of horse riding. Whilst involved in the programme the children were shown how to brush, walk and care for the horse as well as basic techniques involved in riding the horses. The children’s ability ranged from those who had some experience to those who had never been on a horse before. One of our children had special needs, and with teacher aide support he has coped very well.
We have found the tutors involved in working at the centre to be friendly, accommodating and well organised. Sessions were well planned and despite the varying levels of ability each student was challenged in a supportive environment. We are very keen to be involoved in offering this programme once again in 2007.”
Richard Patterson
Maidstone Intermediate Principal
“We told our daughter aged 5 that if she still wanted a pony when she was 10 we would buy her one. Unfortunately she still did, and now age 11 she just got her second. This is only possible for us, as a busy working couple, by using the services of Jacqui and Richard of Thompsons Horse Centre.
Jacqui helped with the purchase of our ponies, travelling from Waikato to Christchurch with us. She was Katie’s instructor, so knew her ability and needs. She teaches Katie dressage, and also schools “Roxy”.
On full livery we know the ponies are looked after when we can’t be there.
Richard, a top class farrier, cares for their feet.
There is parking for our float and great indoor and outdoor arenas and exercise tracks.
There is a great group of young and more experienced riders in a friendly community.
We wouldn’t be anywhere else.”
Helen Tobin – Orthopaedic surgeon, Lower Hutt
Peter Tobin – Anaesthetist, Lower Hutt
“Thompson’s Horse Centre is a fantastic facility available to all People involved with horses.
I teach there on a regular base and my pupils can enjoy a full sized allweather outdoor arena and an indoor school, which I as the coach also appreciate when the weather is bad!
There is plenty of room on the outdoor arena for jumping as well and the track around the paddocks allows for a relaxed warm up or cool down.
I enjoy working at the Thompson’s Horse Centre and it is open to all.”
Andrea Raves Dressage NZ A – Grade Trainer
“Just some positive feedback. My second riding lesion was even better than the first ( mind you it was over 20 years and 2 children since I had been on a horse). Sarah is a great instructor, I can’t speak highly enough of her ! Your horses are all in good condition, they are well mannered and well cared for. It is wonderful to have a riding school with an indoor arena and great facilities so close. I hope I will be well enough to continue lesions for some time.
My very sincere thanks”
Deborah Knight