- Kaimanawa Wild Horse -

The first Kaimanawa Wild Horses were introduced in New Zealand in December of 1814, by Samuel Marsden. The exact location is unknown, although the first wild horses recorded in the Kaimanawa mountain region was in 1876. History states that Exmoor horses were released in the area around that time, so there is a distinct possibility that the Kaimanawa Wild Horse has some Exmoor blood in it. Several other breeds have been mentioned in the development of the breed, including the Comet breed and other local domestic stock.

These horses are renowned for their quiet, inquisitive nature. Many of them have classic Comet and Exmoor characteristics, which are clearly visible today. It is also said that these horses strongly resemble the New Forest ponies, and Welsh pony breeds and even the Arabian lineage shows up sometimes. They have been scientifically compared to the zebra, Assateague ponies, and wild mustangs.

Part of what makes these horses so special is that they are a truly wild herd, because they have had little interference by man throughout their history. Because of the harsh climate in which they live, the Kaimanawa Wild Horse has to withstand a harsh climate, and thus has adapted to such conditions very well.

In 1982 the Kaimanawa Wild Horses were given a protected status under the "Wildlife Order", and from that point on, the number of existing horses gradually, steadily, increased. After that, the protected status was lifted, since the breed could survive on its own. The fate of the Kaimanawa Wild Horse is yet unknown. Some say that after they are rounded up to be protected in captivity, there will be too few left in the wild to maintain the breed in the wild, and the gene pool will die out.

A note from Simone of www.horseyhomeschool.co.nz

If you would like the very latest information on Kaimanawa horses, please visit www.kaimanawa.homestead.com & you will find current information about steps towards implementing immuno-contraception in herd management. The current herd has been reduced to just 300 horses & there are only approx. 1500 horses in domestic homes. If we can raise global awareness of the breed & their value, it’s sure to help secure a future for these horses in the wild.

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