THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Join Russell Higgins’ Success Series in Queenstown for a progressive horsemanship experience. Three intensive clinics build ground skills, saddle control, and advanced techniques to deepen your bond with your horse.
Join Russell Higgins’ Success Series in Queenstown for a progressive horsemanship experience. Three intensive clinics build ground skills, saddle control, and advanced techniques to deepen your bond with your horse.
Book with A M Equestrian
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by A M Equestrian · Queenstown, Otago
Queenstown, set against the backdrop of New Zealand’s Southern Alps and flanked by the shimmering waters of Lake Wakatipu, is better known for adrenaline-filled pursuits like skiing and mountain biking. Yet, here at A M Equestrian, the landscape shapes a different kind of adventure—one focused on deepening the bond between rider and horse through Russell Higgins’ Success Series. This three-part horsemanship clinic unfolds over several months, inviting riders of all levels to commit to a layered, hands-on curriculum.
Each clinic spans two intensive days where participants engage with their horses both on the ground and in the saddle. The first clinic, Essential Ground Skills, is critical; it establishes the communication and respect necessary for safety and success. Once groundwork is confident, the second clinic moves riders into the saddle, emphasizing control and confidence regardless of riding style. The series culminates in Advancing Horsemanship, designed to refine a rider’s timing, balance, and feel for their horse’s subtle cues.
A M Equestrian leverages Queenstown’s natural openness and temperate climate, making it an ideal setting for immersive clinics with manageable group sizes capped at 12 riders. The mix of alpine air, sprawling arenas, and a friendly, supportive learning environment makes the series a standout offering in New Zealand’s outdoor education scene. Attendees leave not only with improved skills but with a deeper emotional connection and practical tools for ongoing horsemanship.
Because Queenstown is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, pairing the Success Series with local hiking, boating, or wine tours can transform a trip into a multi-dimensional experience. With camping facilities and limited yard rentals onsite, A M Equestrian provides both comfort and flexibility for those serious about upgrading their horse relationship in one of the world’s most beautiful adventure settings.
moderate.
2 days per clinic.
Participants should be in reasonable physical shape to stand, handle horses, and ride for extended periods.
Clinic 1 is suitable for beginners and those new to natural horsemanship, with no experience required.
No, completion of prior clinics is required as each builds on the last.
Participants must bring their own horses to maximize the learning benefits.
Self-contained camping is allowed, and a limited number of horse yards are available.
Bookings are non-refundable, but if you notify early, your spot may be filled from the waitlist.
Yes, the skills focus on good horsemanship applicable across disciplines.
Queenstown is built on land with deep Māori heritage and was established during the Central Otago gold rush in the 1860s.
A M Equestrian promotes sustainable horse keeping practices and supports local efforts to maintain Queenstown's natural landscapes.
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.
Book with A M Equestrian