Source: Department of Conservation
Date: 27 March 2025
The Department of Conservation (DOC) aims to keep the heritage horse herd at around 300 horses, the agreed limit to keep the horses healthy and protect the fragile ecosystems of the unique Moawhango Ecological Zone.
Rehoming is coordinated by the dedicated, not-for-profit group Kaimanawa Heritage Horses (KHH). However, they have not received nearly enough applications for re-homing this year.
DOC Senior Biodiversity Ranger Sarah Tunnicliffe says the rehoming benefits both the horses and the environment.
“Our latest aerial survey shows the herd is more than double the recommended 300 horses, which risks environmental damage and food shortages for the horses.”
In recent years, with Animal Ethics Committee support, DOC has introduced a contraceptive treatment for some mares to support population control. This supporting method takes a few years to take effect, and rehoming continues to be the primary tool for herd management.
“The muster is our opportunity to balance the continued health of the heritage herd with the protection of rare plants and ecosystems which make New Zealand special,” says Sarah.
“It’s a win-win, but is reliant on Kaimanawa Heritage Horses getting enough applications for rehoming.”
KHH chair Carolyn Haigh stresses the urgency of finding homes.
“With applications closing soon, time is running out. We encourage people to contact us for information on the rehoming process.”
The annual muster is in late April, with applications for horses open until April 14.
If you can provide a home for a Kaimanawa horse, please contact KHH at muster@kaimanawaheritagehorses.org or visit www.kaimanawaheritagehorses.org/muster-information.
Your help is crucial to protect these horses and their environment.
Contact
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
