Recent News

Testimonials

Dave and Bridget Sutton recommended Donna Smith to us when we bought Henton First Edition (Fraser) as a 3 year old. Under Donna's  supervision and expertise, he is developing the confidence and skills to move up the grades. He has talent but it has been  Donna's skill and professionalism and her calm manner which is giving Fraser confidence. Donna loves what she does and has a great connection with horses. As owners, we are really enjoying the experience of seeing Fraser develop under Donna's very thorough approach to bringing out the best in our young horse.
Dean, Mandy & Anna Beverley

Beverley Family

“I am very privileged to have a fantastic team of people behind me, that support me in every direction, making it possible to concentrate on my competitive career.”

Donna Smith

Thank you for the amazing job you did with Donny. 🙂. We are just so thrilled with him and how he has matured and so so sensible. The difference is just amazing, so thank you so much for your wonderful encouraging way with the young horses. We are rapt!!!

Sally Bank

Donna Smith is an international event rider and trainer who rode for New Zealand at the 2006 World Equestrian Games. One of the most sportsmanlike and professional riders on the local circuit, Donna has produced many, many horses to Advanced level.
A former champion show jumper at Young Rider level, Donna is the current National 3* 3DE Champion, with her home-produced thoroughbred Balmoral Tangalooma. She is also the current National One-Day Champion with her and Sarah Varley's Just Chocolate.
Donna was based in the US for seven years with Olympic gold medalist David O'Connor, but is now based at her parents' Waerenga property, where she runs her successful business.

NZ Horse & Pony Magazine

“Donna is recognised on our Future Potential Recognition group which are talented kiwi riders capable of producing high performance horses. It is out of this future potential recognition group that we hope to see some of our high performance combinations of the future.”

NZ HIGH PERFORMANCE DIRECTOR

Sarah Dalziell-Clout