Bespoke, tailored equestrian experiences.

Whether you’re honouring a lifelong dream or returning to a passion that once brought you joy, we’re here to gently support you as it comes to life—one stride at a time.

Welcome to Willow & Mane—where horses, nature, and connection come together in thoughtful, soulful experiences for women.

Whether you're returning to the saddle, seeking a meaningful outdoor adventure, or looking for trustworthy care for your equine companion, our offerings are designed with heart, experience, and attention to detail.

Programme One: Returning to Ride

Reconnect with confidence and joy.
A small-group programme tailored for women ready to return to riding after time away. This gentle, supportive journey focuses on building confidence, foundational skills, and harmony with horses.

  • Groundwork and horsemanship

  • Riding in walk, trot, and optional canter

  • Polework and low-stress arena sessions

  • Guided local hacks

  • Warm, welcoming community

  • Safe, confident building horses provided

🗓️ Term-based | 1:1 or 1:2 ratio, 1.5 hour session
📍 On-site at Willow & Mane, Lake Hayes
💰 $230 GST exclusive (horses provided)

Programme Two: Saddle Up & Adventure

Explore, expand, and enjoy the ride.
For women ready to take their riding further—this programme includes off-site excursions, confidence-building through varied terrain, and deeper work in the saddle. 1:1 or 1:2 group size.

  • Arena visits and local riding spots

  • Confidence in new environments

  • Scenic guided hacks

  • Tailored to your goals

🗓️ Term-based | Group or Private
📍 Based at Willow & Mane with off-site elements
💰 $230 (horses provided) 1.5 hour session, plus additional costs for arena hire and transport of horses etc

Hold my hand

Building confidence, one ride at a time.

Sometimes all you need is a little reassurance and someone experienced riding alongside you.

Whether you're finding your confidence again, bringing on a green horse, or simply looking to build experience together as a partnership, Hold My Hand offers a supportive, relaxed, safe environment to do just that.

Bring your own horse to Willow & Mane and ride alongside me as we explore the property and surrounding trails. We'll take things at your pace, building confidence, developing practical skills and gaining valuable mileage in different environments.

No pressure, no expectations — just good company, steady guidance and the opportunity to grow in confidence together.💡 Let our experience support your dream.


💰 $85 GST exclusive - 1 hours riding

First Horse and Rider Concierge

Thinking about getting your first horse? Let us guide you.
This one-on-one service is ideal for women looking to take the leap into horse ownership. We help you plan and prepare—so you and your future horse start off right.

  • Property and grazing readiness assessments

  • Horse selection support

  • Feed, fencing, gear and shelter advice

  • Ongoing mentoring available

Additonally we offer rider concierge - do you want someone to hold your hand at your first event or an outing, we can be right there with you each for each step.

💡 Let our experience support your dream.
💰 POA (based on needs and location)

Horse Care at Your Home

Reliable, experienced horse care while you're away.
Going away? Let us care for your horse as if they were our own.

  • Daily feeding, rugging, mucking out and checks

  • Optional exercise or groundwork

  • Custom care routines

  • Ideal for busy professionals, school holidays, or family travel

If for some reason we can’t help you we will certainly be able to connect you with someone locally who can.

📍 Servicing Queenstown, Lake Hayes, Arrowtown & surrounds
💰 POA (based on location and requirements)

“I wanted to share what a fantastic experience I recently had riding with Gemma.

Having known Gemma for many years, I deeply admire what she has created for our community. The opportunity she provides for individuals who rode in their youth, or have always wanted to try riding, is simply perfect.

Gemma’s extensive knowledge and wonderful horses (my favourite is Jandal) truly make this a game changer for our area.”

Amanda S. August 2025