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Ready your tack and your nerves: Shotover Equestrian’s AME D examinations in Queenstown are a focused, professional way for young riders to earn certification. Trainers Michaela and Ashley run small, structured sessions that include horse hire, arena time, and examiner fees.
Ready your tack and your nerves: Shotover Equestrian’s AME D examinations in Queenstown are a focused, professional way for young riders to earn certification. Trainers Michaela and Ashley run small, structured sessions that include horse hire, arena time, and examiner fees.
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Operated by A M Equestrian · Queenstown, Otago
Shotover Equestrian sits in the valley near Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand, offering D-level AME Pony Club examinations led by trainers Michaela and Ashley. The D examinations at Shotover Equestrian are focused, practical riding tests designed to confirm a young rider's baseline skills and horsemanship. Candidates must be current AME Pony Club Center Members and have all line items signed off prior to the exam. The standard D exam runs 1 hour 15 minutes; the D+ option lasts approximately 1 hour 40 minutes and costs NZ$100. The package includes horse hire, arena hire, an examiner's fee, and a certificate on successful completion. Arrive 90 minutes before your scheduled start to catch, groom and tack up—the schedule is strict to allow time for tack checks and warm-up. Michaela and Ashley run a professional, low-drama environment where attention to detail matters: clean tack, correct dress, and calm warm-ups all count. Exams are limited to 1–4 riders per session, which keeps the atmosphere focused and gives candidates clear individual feedback. The riding arena at Shotover sits on grazing flats framed by the region's schist outcrops and Mingha-style tussock, offering a distinctly Otago backdrop. Expect to work on basics such as mounted balance, control at walk and trot, basic stable management, and safety procedures—skills that reflect both Pony Club tradition and local station horsemanship. The exam is both a measure and a teaching moment; examiners sign off on competencies with practical notes you can carry into weekly lessons. For families traveling to Queenstown, Shotover provides a reliable, one-stop exam service: tack space, a prepared horse, and clear administrative steps. The cost is non-refundable except for veterinary or doctor's note; candidates under 24 and older than five are eligible. Bring your signed paperwork, Pony Club membership proof, and any required medical notes. Expect an emailed packet of information once registered. This experience is not a trail ride but a formal assessment—perfect for riders progressing through Pony Club levels, competition hopefuls solidifying fundamentals, or parents seeking structured credentialing for their teens. Shotover Equestrian's exam days are a concentrated slice of local equestrian culture: practical, precise, and rooted in Otago's working-horse traditions. Preparation is straightforward: polish tack, rehearse the standard Pony Club exercises, and arrive with the required signed sign-offs. Michaela and Ashley give concise verbal feedback and written notes so you leave with clear next steps — whether that’s consolidating basics or moving to D+. Parents often appreciate the structured timeline, and the included horse hire removes last-minute horse logistics. Registration is done online; payment is non-refundable except for medical or veterinary grounds. Shotover’s exam days pull practical horsemanship into a single focused session, making them an efficient step in a young rider’s progression, and future goals.
Yes. Candidates must be current AME Pony Club Center Members and provide membership proof at check-in.
The NZ$100 fee covers horse hire, arena hire, the examiner's fee, and the certificate if you pass.
Arrive about 90 minutes before your scheduled start to catch, groom, tack up and warm your horse.
Bookings are non-refundable except with a vet or doctor's note; contact the operator with documentation to request an exception.
Candidates must be at least 5 years old and under 24, per the structured description eligibility.
Sessions are limited to 1–4 riders to ensure focused assessment and individual feedback.
A M Equestrian is a Queenstown, Otago equestrian centre offering a range of riding experiences, coaching clinics and facility hire designed for riders of all ages and abilities. Located minutes from central Queenstown with views of the Remarkable mountain range and access to the Shotover River trails, A M Equestrian runs tailored rides, small-group lessons and family-friendly pony sessions. Offerings include 1 Hour Riding Lessons with expert coaches, Groom & Ride sessions, Junior Groom & Ride for children aged 2–8, and specialty events such as Horse Hire for Recycled Ribbon Day and the Recycled Ribbon Showjump Series on July 19, August 16 and September 27. The venue operates a fully fenced arena surfaced with premium rubber chip and equipped with Jump 4 Joy show jumps and an equine obstacle course available through Arena Hire. Coaching programs include the Russell Higgins Success Series — three consecutive clinics focused on progressive horsemanship skills across multiple two-day sessions. Guided Shotover River Trails rides showcase local scenery while accommodating a range of skill levels with well-trained horses and enthusiastic guides. Sessions emphasize horse welfare and rider education; guests learn grooming, saddling and ground skills before riding. A M Equestrian prioritizes safety and a positive learning environment through small group sizes, experienced coaching staff and well-maintained horses and equipment. Clear booking information, scheduled series dates and dedicated facility hire options make A M Equestrian a practical choice for families, beginners and competitive riders seeking quality riding experiences near Queenstown. Accessible booking and clear safety procedures.
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