Welcome to Charis Ponies
At Charis Ponies, we create a calm, supportive space where people and ponies can connect in meaningful, non-riding ways.
Through purpose-based equine friendship, learning, and wellbeing programmes, we support neurodiverse individuals, adults, and small groups to grow in confidence, communication, trust, and self-awareness.
Set in the peaceful Lower Kaimai countryside near Tauranga, Charis is a place to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with yourself, others, and the natural world.
Safe & Supportive Environment
We prioritize physical and emotional safety, creating a peaceful haven where everyone feels comfortable to explore and learn at their own pace.
Individual Approach
Every journey is unique. We tailor our sessions to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual, ensuring a meaningful and personal experience.
Our Mission & Values
Our heart is to offer a safe, encouraging environment where people of different ages, backgrounds, and abilities can experience growth through gentle connection with ponies.
Purpose-Based Learning
Our structured programmes are designed with intention, fostering essential life skills like communication, trust, and self-awareness through equine interaction.
Connection Through Ponies
The core of our philosophy is the therapeutic bond between humans and horses, offering a non-judgmental space for connection and growth.
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Carol’s Story
Carol’s love affair with ponies and horses began even before her dad first placed her on a pony when she was around 18 months old. When she was eight years old, she decided that one day she wanted to buy a farm and breed ponies. She developed a lifelong passion for ponies and horses, being around them, training them, and riding them. It was 40 years before she was able to buy the land and realise her dream, but it did happen!
In 2008, Carol suffered a serious head injury which temporarily took away her ability to talk, read, and write. Doctors told her she would be unlikely to ever speak again. Carol’s first thought was, “I don’t think so.” She says that she was always able to think, and therefore, in her mind, she believed she could find a way to talk again.
At the time of the accident, Carol was breeding ponies, later specialising in Welsh Ponies. Determined not to give up her dream, she continued caring for the ponies and practising words with them each day while grooming and working with them in the barn.
Fortunately, ponies are very good at reading body language. It’s largely how they communicate with each other, and they all learned what Carol wanted them to do before the words came. At first, all that came out of her mouth were what she describes as “weird sounds”.
Then one day, while calling the ponies in using the “Hey Velvet! Come on over” call that she still uses today, Carol listened to herself and realised she was actually saying the words. It was nothing like normal speech. It was slow and toneless, but it was a start. Once she had started, she continued to improve. It took about three years before her speech was almost back to its pre-injury ability.
Through this deeply personal experience, Carol discovered firsthand one of the unique ways ponies can help people feel safe, empowered, connected, and encouraged. Later, she went on to complete the EAGALA courses that became available.
Today, Charis Ponies exists to create those same opportunities for others.
Meet the Ponies
The ponies at Charis are gentle, curious, and full of personality. Each one plays a unique part in helping people feel safe, seen, and supported.
Lady Vee
Happy
Victory
Santana
A gentle soul with a calming presence, perfect for quiet moments.
Curious and playful, Happy brings energy and smiles to every session.
Patient and steady, Vistory is a trusted friend for building confidence.
Full of character and wit, Santana loves interaction and treats.
The Property & Environment
Charis Ponies is nestled in the peaceful Lower Kaimai countryside near Tauranga, surrounded by open paddocks, trees, and the gentle rhythms of rural life.
Sessions take place in and around the barn, arena, and paddocks, with plenty of space to move, observe, and breathe.
We aim to keep the environment simple, calm, and welcoming—free from unnecessary noise and busyness—so that people and ponies can connect at a natural pace.