Making a Positive Difference
At NZRDA, it’s our goal to make a positive difference in local communities across New Zealand. We offer specialised therapeutic horse riding through a range of tailored programmes for people living with physical, intellectual, emotional and social challenges.
Our History
The Hawke’s Bay is where it all began, with the very first RDA in New Zealand being a sub-group at the Pony Club in Waipukurau.
1962
INTRODUCED
1972
ESTABLISHED
New Zealand Riding for the Disabled Association (NZRDA) was formally established in 1972.
PRESENT
COUNTRYWIDE
All RDA groups are incorporated societies and independently financed and managed. The NZRDA is the umbrella organisation providing standards, training, certification and support.
Our RDA groups are primarily run by volunteers, but some groups employ paid staff. Positions vary according to the needs and resources, but generally groups will have people on management committees and others working directly with riders, for example, coaches, therapists, leaders and sidewalkers.