Hutt Valley RDA

Welcome to the team, Turbo! 🐴

Turbo arrived at RDA in December 2024 and has been settling in beautifully ever since. Our horse trainer has been putting him through his paces, and we're thrilled to say he's now ready to start in the program!

Despite his name, Turbo is anything but fast – he's incredibly chill with a slow, steady walk that's perfect for our therapy clients. This friendly wee man loves scratches anywhere on his body and has the most laid-back attitude you could ask for.

🎂 Born: 2019
📏 Height: 14hh
🎨 Colour: Bay
🐎 Breed: Kaimanawa Gelding

Over the last holidays we were super lucky to have the team from C&M Transport doing a heap of groundwork, gateways, tidying up the yard area and lots of other small jobs that needed doing to make sure everyone can move safely around the property in winter.

A huge thank you also to Craig and the team at Linked Earthworks, who generously donated the millings for the laneways, gateways and working areas throughout the yards — and to Winstone Aggregates NZ, who donated 80 tonnes of basecourse to make it all possible.

Volunteer Shield — Michelle Mudgway 🏆

This award recognises a volunteer who goes above and beyond — whether through exceptional attendance, taking on extra duties, or doing something truly special for our group. This year it goes to Michelle, who volunteers every Monday without fail. She is present, consistent, and just gets the job done — but what really sets Michelle apart is the way she takes every new volunteer under her wing and guides them through their first rides until they find their feet. An absolute cornerstone of our team — thank you Michelle! 🌟💛🙌

Most Improved Rider — Cooper Thomson 🏆

This award recognises a rider who has made real strides forward over the year — whether in riding skill, attendance, or simply getting on a horse. This year it goes to Cooper, who has been riding with us for a year and has come so far! He is now riding for half or more of his sessions off the lead, steering his horse and nailing those left and right turns. Keep it up Cooper — we are so proud of your progress!