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A few changes as we grow Growth also brings a few more grown-up systems behind the scenes! This season we are introducing Onside, a new health and safety programme that will help us manage our responsibilities and ensure everyone riding and spending time on the property is appropriately covered. There will be a one-off administration/set-up process for clients at the beginning of the season. I’ll provide more information about what is required shortly, and once it’s done it should make things straightforward going forward. These are all positive changes that reflect Willow & Mane moving from its first season into a more established operation, while still keeping the relaxed, personal environment we set out to create. A little flexibility to start the season We have also headed straight into a busy equestrian spring. Having not long returned from South Island Secondary Schools Cup - we are in the eventing and pony club season, so there will be a couple of weeks in November where I’ll need some flexibility with session days and times. As many of you already know, horses and family competitions are very much part of life here! I’ll communicate any affected dates early and work with everyone to keep sessions running as smoothly as possible. Coffee, horses & a good yarn... I’ve also been thinking about something a little different this season. My sense is that there are people in our community who may not necessarily want to ride, but who still miss being around horses — the smell of the yard, grooming a horse, pottering about and spending time with other people who understand and enjoy the equestrian life. So, I’m thinking about opening Willow & Mane for a morning once a fortnight for coffee and yarns. Nothing too structured — come in, have a coffee, groom a horse, potter around the yard and enjoy some horse time and good company. It may appeal to former riders, horse-loving people who no longer have their own, or simply those who would like a little more of horses and like-minded equestrian company in their lives. We’ll put the idea out there and see where it goes. If someone springs to mind who might enjoy it, please spread the word — they certainly don’t need to already be part of Willow & Mane. Hold my hand…bring your own horse Building confidence, one ride at a time. Sometimes all you need is a little reassurance, a safe environment and someone experienced riding alongside you. In response to a number of enquiries we have received you can now 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. What happens next We are ready to ride! As always I will do my best to accommodate everyone. Existing clients will have the first opportunity to secure their preferred riding days and times before we offer remaining spaces more widely. There has been a minor adjustment in our 2026/27 pricing - available on our website, please contact me with your session preferences. https://www.willowmane.co.nz/ There’s lots to look forward to — rested horses, our new facilities, more of Little Morven to explore, a little extra help behind the scenes and, most importantly, plenty of time back in the saddle — or perhaps just around the yard with a coffee in hand. We can’t wait to welcome you back. Gemma Willow & Mane
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