Wild Hearts Equine Connection
Welcome to Wild Hearts Equine Connection. We are located just 20 minutes from Wānaka. We offer Equine-Assisted Learning sessions and programmes where people of all ages have the opportunity to connect with horses.
“Horses with their grace and strength, offer a beautiful presence and supportive environment for personal growth, healing and nourishment.”
What is EAL?
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) is a practical, ground-based approach to learning and wellbeing, where people work alongside horses to develop practical life skills.
Participants have the opportunity to develop skills in:
Building confidence and self-belief
Managing emotions and stress
Recognising and responding to social cues
Building self-awareness
Communicating clearly
Learning healthy boundaries
Developing healthy relationships
Strengthening resilience and problem-solving skills
Who Can Benefit?
Equine-Assisted Learning may be helpful for children, young people and adults looking for support with:
Chronic stress and burnout
Anxiety and feeling overwhelmed
Grief and loss
Building confidence and self-esteem
Autism and ADHD (supporting social, emotional and self-regulation skills)
Improving communication and relationships
Learning healthy boundaries
What We Do
In a typical session, you'll spend time with the horses, whether that's observing, grooming, leading or taking part in simple activities. Together, we'll explore whatever comes up for you during the experience.
I offer a range of sessions to suit different needs and interests. Whatever you choose, you'll be supported by me and my team of horses and therapy animals, with plenty of time and space to slow down, reflect, and enjoy the beautiful Central Otago surroundings.
Meet Your Coach
Hi, I’m Toni Collins the owner of Wild Hearts Equine Connection. I'm passionate about helping children, teens and adults build confidence, strengthen relationships, develop practical life skills, and navigate life's challenges through Equine-Assisted Learning and the unique partnership between people and horses.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts (Education & Social Work) – University of Otago
Primary Teacher Training Studies – Dunedin College of Education
Postgraduate Studies in Applied Psychology – University of Auckland
Postgraduate Certificate in Equine-Assisted Learning – Equine Psychotherapy Institute, Australia
Certified Horse Wisdom Programme™ Practitioner – Equine Psychotherapy Institute
-
All sessions are private and confidential. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive environment where you can share, reflect, and explore at your own pace.
-
No referral is needed. You can book a session directly at any time.
-
These sessions are not about riding or learning horse skills. Instead, the horses are partners in the experience, helping create opportunities for learning, reflection, and personal growth through ground-based activities.
-
Please wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes or boots. As we'll be outdoors, it's a good idea to dress for the weather and bring extra layers if needed.
