Brushstrokes for the Kaimanawa Horses
I’m excited to share something very close to my heart — a new initiative I’m calling Brushstrokes for the Kaimanawa Horses.
From now on, you’ll start to see a tagline — Brushstrokes for the Kaimanawa Horses — on some of my artwork. Whenever you see a piece marked with this, it means something important: 100% of the proceeds will go directly to support the rescue and rehoming of these horses through the Kaimanawa Legacy Foundation.
But to truly understand why this matters, let me give you a little background.
Who are the Kaimanawa horses?
The Kaimanawa horses are a herd of wild horses that roam the Kaimanawa Ranges in the central North Island of New Zealand. Their ancestry traces back to domestic cavalry and farm horses brought to the area in the 19th century. Over generations, they’ve adapted to the rugged landscape and now live completely wild — a symbol of strength, freedom, and resilience.
But they face a fragile future.
Why are they mustered?
Every year, the Department of Conservation (DOC) carries out a muster — a controlled round-up — to manage the size of the herd. The reason is simple but complex: the land can’t sustain unlimited numbers of wild horses without risking severe environmental damage to native flora and fauna. Left unchecked, the population could grow beyond what the land (and the horses themselves) can support.
So, to protect both the environment and the herd’s wellbeing, the DOC caps the wild population at around 300 horses. Horses above this number are removed in the muster. Without enough funding or approved homes, many of these mustered horses may face euthanasia.
My personal connection
Recently, I had the incredible honour of photographing some of the Kaimanawa horses just weeks off the range. I was humbled to be allowed that close — and completely moved by their gentle curiosity. One even ate out of my hand. To witness how quickly they respond to kindness and calm energy, after living completely wild, was unforgettable.
These horses are so much more than wild animals — they make outstanding riding horses, eventers, and lifelong companions. Even the older ones who may never be ridden still have so much to offer in terms of presence, wisdom, and connection.
My lifelong love of horses is what makes this so deeply personal for me. This project isn’t just art — it’s advocacy. It’s my way of helping to protect a part of Aotearoa’s wild heart.
What I’m doing
To help raise vital funds, I’ve launched Brushstrokes for the Kaimanawa Horses — my way of giving back.
🎨 I’m offering a growing collection of wall art and greeting cards featuring the Kaimanawa horses. 100% of proceeds from these items will be donated directly to the Foundation.
When you see a piece marked Brushstrokes for the Kaimanawa Horses, you’ll know that it’s more than just a beautiful image — it’s part of something bigger.
These horses didn’t ask to be born wild. But they deserve a chance to live free or to find safety in kind, caring homes.
If you’re able to support this cause — by purchasing, or simply sharing this story — you’ll be helping to give hope to the horses who need it most.