Te Toka Āhuru students Jai Ihaka (Y8), Ruby Paton (Y7) and Tiara Smith (Y13) have loved attending equine therapy at NZRDA during Term Three.

During the sessions, the students learn good posture, and how to communicate with the horse and with the assistants. They play educational games, follow instructions and most of all, build self-confidence and have a fun time out of the classroom.

Our RDA coach, Catherine has been amazing at encouraging the students to try new things and she brings out the best in everyone with her energy, enthusiasm and expertise. 

The RDA assistants are volunteers who give their time to support young people with this wonderful programme. Ben is one of the assistants who volunteers one day per week because he suffered an injury and can't do all of the physical activities he used to do. He feels that he has received support that has allowed him to live his best life, so he wants to give back to the community. Ben grooms and saddles-up the horses ready for the riders. 

Raewyn is another assistant who is in her retirement years. She was a very active sportswoman in her youth and continues to enjoy walking basketball, gardening, going to the gym and playing golf with her husband and friends. Being an RDA volunteer helps keep her fit and active and she enjoys seeing young people build their confidence and skills. 

If you would like to become an RDA volunteer, you can find out more on the RDA website. You don't have to be a 'horsey-person' to volunteer because there are a variety of roles, like leading, side-walking, assisting with horse care, and helping with administration. 

The Tauranga RDA is based in Welcome Bay and the views over the water and out to Mauao are simply amazing!