Our Team
We bring different perspectives to the table, but we’re united by a love for horses, equestrian sports and building a real connection between horse & rider.
Jackie Gilmore
I started my equestrian journey at the age of 5 at Wellington Light Horse Club. My family was in no way ‘horsey'. My dream was always to run a riding school for the benefit of people like me.
I have ridden most disciplines over the years - riding ‘B Grade’ showjumping back in the day but my enduring passion is for dressage & training young horses.
I have been involved in NZPCA in the past & gained D+ coaching qualifications with them. In addition I have trained (and continue to train) with many of the best including Bill Noble, Calista Field, Andrea Raves, Helen Hughes-Keen and Anna Ringbourge.
Pony Tales came into existence in 2005 - we celebrate 21 years this year.
Owner
Melanie Davies
Mel has been involved in NZPCA for more years than she cares to remember & attended Pony Club herself in the UK.
She is a current ‘B certificate’ examiner for NZPCA and coaches at the highest level.
Mel has a passion for all things equestrian & alongside her husband is involved in the racing industry. Riding several horses each morning before going to her full time job, Mel puts most of us to shame with her dedication, bravery & passion. We are very lucky to have her as part of the Pony Tales team.
Coach
CoachFergus Ewart
Fergus started his Pony Tales journey as a 7 year old terror.
He had tried many sports & riding was another one to add to the list - until it became his obsession. He fell off more times than most but always got back on, his strength was his tenacity & determination alongside a genuine love for horses.
Fergus has competed to Level 5 dressage, jumped to a meter ten & dabbled with some eventing. His true passion lies with training young horses.
He has attended Pony Club since he was 9 years old and has gained his ‘B certificate’ and was the recipient last year of an NZPCA Young Achievers Award.
CoachJulie Caister
Julie’s passion for all things equine started at the age of 18 months old when her horse mad mum popped her on pony for the first time.
She learnt to ride at the local riding stables in her village in the UK and didn’t own a pony of her own until she was 11 years old.
She grew up giving most disciplines a go and just generally loving being around horses and attending Pony Club.
In recent years Julie has volunteered for various roles at Pony Club, gained her D level NZPCA coaching qualification and attended clinics to improve her knowledge.
Her passion lies in spreading her love for all things equine and continuing her equestrian learning journey.