Equestrian Coaching
For riders who want more than a good lesson — and are ready to understand why
You're not a beginner. You've been riding long enough to know when something's working and when it isn't — and you've got a feeling there's a gap between where you are and what's actually possible.
Maybe your horse is willing but your training has hit a ceiling.
Maybe you're following instructions that work in the arena but you don't really understand why — so when things go wrong, you're guessing.
Maybe you've started wondering whether there's a more considered way to do this, one that takes your horse's experience as seriously as your own.
That gap doesn't close by doing more of the same. It closes when you start understanding what's actually happening between you and your horse.
What makes this different
Sessions aren't about me telling you what to do and you trying to execute it. They're about understanding what you're communicating to your horse, how your horse is receiving it, and what's getting in the way — whether that's a technical gap, a feel problem, or your own thinking.
I draw on equitation science, classical dressage principles, and mindset coaching — because most riding problems have more than one layer. We'll work on what's actually going on, not just the symptom that shows up in the arena.
No dominance-based methods. No pressure and release dressed up as harmony. Just clear, kind, science-backed communication between you and your horse.
I hold an MSc in Equine Science and BHS AI accreditation, and coach at ICF PCC level — with experience working across multiple continents with riders from first-timers to competitive eventers and showjumpers.
This is for you if
You want to understand the science behind the training, not just follow instructions
You're a capable rider who feels stuck, plateaued, or like you're leaving something on the table
You want to compete — but not at the expense of your horse's wellbeing
You're returning to riding and want to rebuild with a solid foundation
You're curious about liberty, classical dressage, or ethical training methods
You're ready to look at your own patterns as a rider, not just your horse's
In their words
"Susan has a very flexible approach and tailors each lesson to the individual needs. She has a huge amount of knowledge and loves keeping herself up to date on the latest research in the equine world — so as well as learning to ride, you also learn about horse behaviour and gain a much better understanding of your horse. When I had a nasty fall Susan helped me regain my confidence, she was very mindful of my comfort levels and gradually rebuilt it using techniques from her mental coaching. Susan goes the extra mile for her clients."
Jacqui"I'm a middle-aged woman who returned to riding after more than 20 years away. Turns out it's a lot harder than expected! Susan is incredibly kind and calm, and not only helps you build a connection with your horse but helps you understand yourself as well."
Kim"Exceptional teaching. Susan has a focus on getting the fundamentals right. I love how she includes me as the parent so I can learn alongside my daughter. I feel empowered with knowledge."
Eve
Investment
Weekly Coaching (60 minutes) — NZ$410/month
Fortnightly Coaching (60 minutes) — NZ$228/month
Casual Coaching Session (60 minutes) — NZ$135
Available in-person across the lower North Island, or online via video call. Travel is charged at NZ$0.36/km from my base in Ohariu Valley, split between riders in the same area — so the more riders in your region, the less you pay. I don't charge travel within Ohariu Valley and Makara. If you're outside greater Wellington, get in touch and we can talk about what works.
If you're looking for someone to tell you what to do, I'm probably not the right fit.
But if you're ready to understand what you're doing and why — and to build something with your horse that actually makes sense to both of you — I'd love to hear from you.
Fill in the form below and I'll be in touch within 2–3 business days.