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.

Contact Judith
Email coach@northshorerda.org

JUDITH FINCH

Coach

My love for all things equine began as a 7 year old when I stole my sisters pony "Kiwi" and this passion continues to this day.

I was a foundation member of Rosedale Pony Club which started on my Great Uncles farm in Albany. I stayed with pony club until aged 21, gaining my H (Honours) Certificate and coaching at my branch. After some time as a Registered nurse and then flight attendant, I returned to coaching, initially working with my sister at her riding School on the family Orchard in Albany and then setting up my own school in Waitoki, where I have taught many riders of all ages here for the last 30 years. I hold my NZ Equestrian Federation Community Coach Certificate and am looking forward to working on my therapeutic riding certification with the support of NSRDA.

I have three wonderful adult children who all rode. We rejoined pony club and I served on pony club committees, in coach support roles and as District Commissioner for Waitemata. My husband Mike and I both competed, mostly in eventing, and still ride when time allows.

I especially enjoy watching riders develop and grow as they progress on their equine journey. I truly believe that connection with a horse is good for our body, mind and soul.

Contact Philippa
Email info@northshorerda.org

PHILIPPA NICHOLLS

Administration Manager

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, Mathew and our two adult children who come and go, three cats and two lovely spoodles; Alfie & Flint. We spend our time mountain biking or at the beach.

Contact Kate
Email horsemanager@northshorerda.org

Kate Doyle

Horse Manager

I have lived in NZ for almost 5 years, having moved here with my family; husband Chris and two sons aged 13 and 10. We also have a 25 year old son and our first grandchild in the UK.

I have worked with horses all my life and hold British Horse Society stage 1, 2 and 3 in horse management and care. "horses are my passion and life."

I have worked in many aspects of the horse world, some of my most memorable years were at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, which is the UK's largest equine sanctuary, where I helped to look after over 1,200 horses ponies and donkeys.

Since being in NZ and not working with horses, I have busied myself fostering over 50 dogs and puppies for the Saving Hope Foundation. I have a dog called Ruby (a Saving Hope rescue) and two donkeys, Stanley and Ollie at home, both aged 20.