Introduce your child to horseback riding with A M Equestrian’s Junior Groom & Ride near Queenstown. With expert coaching and calm ponies, kids learn grooming, saddling, and enjoy a gentle pony ride in a serene rural setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes total with 15-minute ride
Fitness Level
Suitable for young children with no prior fitness requirements; parents should ensure children are comfortable sitting and engaging with ponies.
Wildlife
History
The Otago region, including Lower Shotover, holds significance for the local Māori and was historically a key area during the Central Otago Gold Rush.
Conservation
A M Equestrian emphasizes well-being for both animals and environment by maintaining varied work schedules for ponies and preserving the natural setting around the farm.
A M Equestrian
Introduce your child to horseback riding with A M Equestrian’s Junior Groom & Ride near Queenstown. With expert coaching and calm ponies, kids learn grooming, saddling, and enjoy a gentle pony ride in a serene rural setting.
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.
Tours Offered
9
Varied rides and sessions available
Location
Queenstown, Otago
Minutes from central Queenstown
Age Range
Ages 2–Adult
Children and adult sessions offered
Facilities
Rubber chip arena
Jump 4 Joy show jumps included
Reserve lessons, pony sessions or arena hire — easy online booking for A M Equestrian experiences.
Arrive Early for Orientation
Arriving 10 minutes before your session helps children settle, get fitted for helmets, and meet their pony and coach comfortably.
Dress for the Weather and Activity
Wear long pants and closed-toe sturdy shoes; bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain and sunblock on sunny days.
Weight Limits Apply
Riders must weigh under 35kg and be between 2 and 8 years old to participate in the Junior Groom & Ride session.
No Pets on Property
For safety and to reduce distraction for the ponies, dogs and other pets are not allowed onsite during sessions.
Long Pants
Protects legs during grooming and riding.
Helmet (Provided)
Safety gear is included and required for all riders.
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps children dry and warm during wet or chilly weather.
spring|fall|winter
Sunblock
Protects against sun exposure on sunny days.
summer|spring