My Journey

My path into this work wasn’t something I planned - it evolved naturally over time.

I’ve always been drawn to horses and the quiet, steady presence they bring. Over the years, I began to notice how being around them changed not just me, but others too. People softened. They became more present. More themselves.

That curiosity led me to deepen both my understanding of people and my work with horses. I completed a Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc), alongside training in bodywork and energy-based practices, including massage therapy and Reiki.

I later trained in equine assisted learning, which brought everything together — combining my passion for wellbeing with the intuitive, honest nature of horses.

Alongside this I’ve also studied The Masterson Method, a specialised approach to working with horses that focuses on relaxation, connection, and responsiveness - something that deeply influences how I work with them in this space.

My Approach

I offer equine assisted learning in a way that is gentle, intuitive, and grounded.

This is not about pressure, performance, or needing to “get it right.” It’s about creating a space where you can simply be - and allowing the horses to do what they do best.

Horses are incredibly sensitive to energy and emotion. They respond to what’s happening beneath the surface, often reflecting things we may not yet have words for.

Through guided experiences with them, people often find:

• A sense of calm and nervous system reset
• Greater self-awareness and emotional clarity
• The ability to release what they’ve been holding
• A feeling of being seen, without needing to explain

No horse experience is needed - just openness.

Why I Created This Retreat

I wanted to create something that felt different from the outside world.

A place that is:

• Simple, not overwhelming
• Supportive, but not clinical
• Real, not polished

Set here on the remote Mataikona Coast, this retreat allows people to step away from the noise and come back to themselves - with the support of nature, horses, and a small, caring environment.

What Makes This Experience Different

This is a small and personalised retreat - not a large group programme.

Everything is intentionally kept honest and grounded:

• Small group or one-on-one sessions
• Time and space to rest and reflect
• Nourishing, home cooked meals
• A deep connection to the land and surroundings

It’s not about doing more.
It’s about allowing yourself to slow down enough for something to shift.

Training & Qualifications

• Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc)
• New Zealand College of Massage – Stage 1 & 2
• Reiki Level 1 & 2
• Certificate of Equine Assisted Learning
• Beyond Horse Massage: The Masterson Method

You’re Welcome Here

Many people arrive not quite knowing what they need - just that something feels off, heavy, or out of balance.

You don’t need to have the words for it.

If you feel drawn to this work, that’s enough.

Gretchen x