Kaimanawa Heritage Horses

We spoke to Marilyn Jenks from Kaimanawa Heritage Horses to find out more about this amazing charity.

What does Kaimanawa Heritage Horses do, and how did you get involved?
Kaimanawa Heritage Horses Welfare Society has grown and evolved over many years. My husband Elder and I first became involved before the large 1997 muster, when we brought home our very first Kaimanawa—a mare descended from one of the early trial muster horses. We fell in love with her and quickly became determined to help protect these incredible horses, many of whom faced slaughter during musters.

KHH is welfare-focused. We care for the wellbeing of Kaimanawa horses both on and off the Ranges and take on the responsibility of rehoming those mustered each year—a huge task that requires careful planning. From press releases and interviews to processing applications, our welfare team ensures that every horse goes to a suitable home. Applicants require two referees (one must be a vet), and our regional representatives visit each property to make sure it’s safe and well-prepared. Our representatives also carry out follow-up visits a few months later to ensure both horse and owner are thriving. Importantly, KHH will always take back any horse that doesn’t work out, or that is unwanted, mistreated, or misunderstood. This is our promise to every Kaimanawa that leaves its homeland—the Ranges.

What has been your proudest moment?
There are so many! Personally, winning Supreme Champion at the KHH National
Show three times with my pony Misty (Kaimanawa Spellbound) is unforgettable. Watching Kaimanawa Watch Me Move and Redcliffs Bill both win in show jumping at Horse of the Year was also incredible. But perhaps most special is seeing Kaimanawas thriving in homes all around New Zealand—cherished by their riders and proving time and again how amazing they are. The Stallion Challenge at Equifest, where recently-mustered horses
showcase their progress after just a few months of training, is another highlight. On a
personal note, Elder and I were both humbled to receive the Queen’s Service
Medal in 2015 for our work with the Kaimanawas.

What’s next for KHH?
We’re excited about our upcoming fundraising trips into the Kaimanawa Ranges this December. These include three-day tours into the Ranges (with different groups each day), as well as a special photography trip featuring sunrise shoots and incredible opportunities to capture both the horses and the stunning landscape. These experiences are unique—because the Ranges are located on Army land, the public can only access them through KHH. The trips are not only important fundraisers, but also a chance to share the magic of the horses in their natural habitat. We’re deeply grateful to all those who donate,sponsor, or support us. Our sponsors even have a dedicated Facebook page where they can follow regular updates on their sponsored horses.

How can people get involved?
There are many ways to help!

• Become a member of KHH.
• Sponsor one of the welfare horses in our care.
• Join our committee—we’re always looking for passionate people.
• Support Kaimanawa shows or local events.
• Help sell merchandise.
• Apply to adopt a horse from the muster—we’ll support you every step of the way.
• Spread the word! Share how special these horses are, and why they’re a national treasure.

And if you’re looking for a companion for your paddock, we have some wonderful
Kaimanawas ready for homes. As we like to say: Kaimanawa horses are like potato chips—you can’t stop at one!

Favourite Fragrance? The smell of horses.... then Lavender