North Shore Riding for the Disabled
Our Amazing Staff
North Shore RDA relies heavily on our wonderful group of volunteers to deliver our riding programmes and, without them, we wouldn’t be able to operate. However, we also recognise that specific expertise is required in various areas of our operation and so the decision was made some years ago to employ people with the right skills to ensure we operate at the highest level we can, delivering meaningful, measurable results and positive outcomes for each of our riders.
MIRANDA SEOW
Head Coach
I rode as a child, but it was not until my mid 20’s that my passion for horses and riding took hold. My journey began with buying my first horse; to coaching at the local riding schools and gaining Certification as a Community Coach (Horse Riding); to now coaching at RDA North Shore.
After a sudden AVM trauma at 13yrs I was forbidden to ride again. It was not until I chose to ride that I started to really recover in all areas of life. Horses have and will always be a part of my life. The care and riding of horses keeps me centered, fit and healthy.
I believe horse handling and riding provides positive social interaction, mental agility, emotional stability and physical coordination and strength. It brings a person into the moment and holds their attention that can be directed to educate, to stimulate, to calm, to bring joy and to achieve.
Come and join us!
PHILIPPA NICHOLLS
Day Coordinator
I have been with North Shore RDA for a few years now and thoroughly enjoy the varied nature of my job. I get to spend my time with lovely volunteers, amazing horses and children who benefit hugely from what we do - what more could I ask?
I have a recent background in classroom teaching and as a teenager competed in Eventing and Show-jumping. After a horse hiatus of 20 or so years I am excited about being around horses again.
I live on the Hibiscus Coast with my husband and two teenagers, three cats and a lovely Spoodle. We spend a large portion of our time at the beach with my children who compete extensively in Surf Lifesaving.
CHARLIE WEAFER
Horse Manager
I was born and bred in rural England and since a young age I have been surrounded by animals, horses especially. I started riding at the age of 5 and got the bug! I began competing in local events and made my way up to county level, learning invaluable skills I use everyday, and of course falling in love with these amazing athletes along the way.
I discovered Trackwork Riding at 17 and I worked in the racing industry as a rider, learning more advanced skills and knowledge. Each horse is unique and I continue to learn with every one I meet.
Following that career came in useful when I landed on Aotearoa shores in 2007, arriving on a working holiday visa I had no idea what I was going to do - I had no plan. I just knew I had come home. In the following days I ventured out and drove past a horse yard and decided to drive in.
12 years later I am a citizen of this beautiful country I now call home. Joining North Shore RDA has definitely been a change of pace and I love it! It has humbled me joining such an amazing team of human and equine stars alike. I look forward to what the future will bring.