Discover the Rare Horse Society of New Zealand

OUR MISSION: The Rare Horse Society of New Zealand is dedicated to educating and promoting the rare horse breeds found in New Zealand.

We aim to raise awareness about their dwindling numbers, the reasons behind their rarity, and the steps being taken to revive and preserve these unique breeds.

Join us in our mission to protect and celebrate these extraordinary horses.

We are currently setting up the society and are taking expressions of interest for those who wish to join. Meetings are open for all to attend and are online only. Paid memberships will be available shortly.

WHY DO WE NEED A RARE HORSE SOCIETY?

A breed can become rare and then extinct in a very short time if nobody is watching. Individual Societies may work to preserve the breed numbers and keep them genetically healthy but this is not a sure thing.

We think a group specifically focusing on improving the opportunities for the horses and buyers to find each other and have more ways to enjoy their partnership will go a long way to making a decent difference.

28 horse breeds have gone extinct in our history for a variety of reasons most of which are the result of deliberate actions taken by humans. We think this is a real shame and hope to ensure no more breeds are lost to fashion, choice or 'being improved'.

We don't know what we might need horses for in the future so we must protect the vast range of genetics that centuries have developed for us.

We can start by breaking down the easy barriers such as people not knowing the breeds are here, or educating against common misconceptions and stereotypes about the breeds capabilities. Next we can fundraise for specific projects. The world is our oyster, we just need the support and determined and creative minds to join and help us. And the kind souls to donate.

Liselle Silver - President of the Society speaks to the Equine Life Podcast about the vision for our society.