Meet the Team - Waimak River Riding School

Our Mission Statement

Our mission is to be one of the leading riding centres in New Zealand catering for and encouraging riders of all levels, from first timers to those who wish to pursue a competitive career or those who just ride for pleasure. With a strict focus on safety first which goes hand-in-hand with enjoyment of the activity, we want to offer a relaxed and friendly learning environment. This will enable us to maintain and grow a profitable business capable of offering a number of employment opportunities.

To achieve this we are committed to supporting local supplier products where possible (which includes environmentally friendly products that we can reasonably source) as well as extending our social and community relations through regular participation in local community group gatherings, social media presence, and networking with other local tourism operators.

Erika McStay

Owner/Instructor

Hi I’m Erika. I had my first horse when I was 17 and taught myself how to ride. I gave up riding for 20 years and once I got back into it I never looked back. My passion is dressage and teaching both youngsters and adults how to ride. My role is one of managing the horses, staff and helpers as well as marketing and administration, but mostly instructing. It has always been my dream to own and manage a riding centre like this and I am so happy and proud of our achievements here. My greatest pleasure is to see the smiles on peoples’ faces during and after their rides, whether they be treks or riding lessons.

Jean Harris

Guest Coach/Mentor

Hi I’m Jean Harris, I have worked with Erika for many years now both as her personal coach and also with the School Holiday Riding Program. I have had many years training and teaching in England and France and I have also worked some years in Austria for Johanne Riegler of the Spanish Riding School. My passion is Dressage however I can also coach in Show Jumping and Cross Country.

Hello, my name is Amelie. I was born and raised in the Netherlands where I have lived for most of the last 46 years. I have recently moved to New Zealand with my husband and 11 year old son.
I started horse riding when I was 8 years old and have never stopped. I have done jumping, volting, dressage, trail riding, western riding and over the past 7 years I have been involved in carriage driving competitions. I am certified in natural horsemanship, gymnastic work for dressage horses and am an equine acupressure practitioner.
I can truly say that horses are my life. What I love most about them is the way they communicate with us and just how very good they are at letting us know what they need from us.
That’s why I am feeling very privileged to work with Erika and her horses, they are raised and trained in the most honest and uncomplicated way.
I have known Erika for 20 years now, as I was her very first Wwoofer, and I just had to come back for more. Whilst here, I fell in love with the place, the people and the country and now I’m living the dream.
I hope to meet you soon!
Amelie

Paige Officer

Trek Guide/Volunteer

Hey! I’m Paige. I’m a classic kiwi girl originating from the deep south of the south Island. I’ve been riding since I could walk and I’ve always loved horses. My favourite horse is Chip and you can usually find me giving him all of my attention. I was a full time employee prior to the earthquakes but I am currently a volunteer and I work a few days a week taking out treks. Now I live in Lyttleton and I focus on my paintings which is my second passion besides horses, of course!

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