Kickstart your horseback riding journey with Arion Riding Centre’s 30-minute private lessons. Personalized instruction and essential horse care skills prepare beginners for group rides amidst Canterbury’s scenic McLeans Island.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals in average physical condition; no prior riding experience necessary.
Wildlife
History
McLeans Island features farmland historically used for grazing since European settlement in Canterbury during the 19th century.
Conservation
Arion Riding Centre focuses on responsible horse management and land stewardship to protect local ecosystems and soil health.
Arion Riding Centre
Kickstart your horseback riding journey with Arion Riding Centre’s 30-minute private lessons. Personalized instruction and essential horse care skills prepare beginners for group rides amidst Canterbury’s scenic McLeans Island.
Arion Riding Centre is a Christchurch, Canterbury equestrian facility dedicated to safe, coached horse riding lessons and practical equine experience. The centre offers assessment lessons for new clients to evaluate riding foundations, private 30‑minute and 45‑minute lessons for individualized skill development, and semi‑private 45‑minute lessons for two riders who prefer shared instruction. Weekend volunteering opportunities provide hands‑on horse care training and supervised experience during school holiday volunteer days.
Licensed coaches and trained staff oversee lessons and volunteer activities, providing fitted boots and helmets for riders as needed. The centre emphasizes safety, progressive coaching, and personalised feedback so riders can build confidence in the saddle. Assessment lessons help instructors establish appropriate lesson plans, while private lessons focus on technique, balance, and horse handling in a controlled environment. Semi‑private sessions suit riders who want targeted coaching with a partner.
Volunteers at Arion Riding Centre gain practical equine care skills, including grooming, basic stable duties, and supervised handling, alongside mentorship from experienced team members. The programme targets weekend availability and school holiday days to accommodate learners and helpers.
Situated in Christchurch, the centre serves local riders and visitors across Canterbury seeking structured lessons, skill assessment, or experiential volunteering. Booking information, session durations, and equipment provisions are provided at registration. Arion Riding Centre combines coaching, safety protocols, and hands‑on involvement to deliver reliable equestrian learning and volunteering opportunities. Riders of all ages and abilities receive tailored lesson plans, clear progression steps, and a strong emphasis on horse welfare, rider confidence, and personal safety always.
Location
Christchurch, Canterbury
Conveniently located in Canterbury
Rider Levels
All abilities
Lessons for beginners to intermediates
Lesson Lengths
30–45 minutes
Multiple session durations available
Volunteer Program
Weekend volunteering
Hands-on horse care experience
Secure a place for assessment lessons, private coaching, semi-private sessions, or weekend volunteering in Christchurch — book online or enquire for availability.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Solid boots with smooth soles and heels provide safety when handling and riding horses; avoid cleated soles or open shoes.
Arrive a Few Minutes Early
Early arrival allows time to get fitted for helmets and boots and to meet your instructor in a relaxed manner.
Follow Helmet Safety Rules
Wearing an approved safety helmet is mandatory during rides to protect against falls or impact.
Dress for Coverage
Long pants and tops covering shoulders are required to prevent scrapes and sun exposure when riding or handling horses.
Approved Riding Helmet
Protects your head during falls or unexpected movement.
Long Pants
Prevents chafing and protects legs while riding.
Riding Boots or Solid Footwear
Ensures safe footing and prevents slipping in stirrups.
Light Layered Tops
Helps regulate body temperature during variable weather.
spring|fall|winter