Homes urgently sought for up to 150 NZ wild horses

In late May, up to 150 a horses will be removed from the ranges of the central North Island of New Zealand as part of the area's ecological management strategy.

The trust is seeking applications from people interested in taking a horse or horses from the muster, as well as those interested in sponsoring the placement and upkeep of a wild horse.

"Last year's muster saw Kiwis getting behind the kaimanawas in unprecedented numbers," said trust chairman Elder Jenks.

"By the time the horses were mustered we had a waiting list of approved prospective owners.

"This year is in stark contrast. Like all of us, horse enthusiasts are struggling with the difficult economic conditions and many simply cannot afford to take on a kaimanawa this year. So far we have had very few applications for the 2009 muster.

"This could have dire results for the mustered kaimanawas.

"To be blunt, any mustered horses that don't find homes will be shot. That is a tragic and unnecessary end for animals that are unique to New Zealand and treasured by many as a national icon."

The trust is encouraging prospective kaimanawa owners to contact the trust urgently, as applications to take a wild horse close on May 25.

The cost for taking a kaimanawa from this year's muster has been set at $200 for the first horse and $170 for subsequent horses.

This cost includes an initial property check, transport from the muster site to a central pickup point and membership and registration of the horse with the trust.

A gelding rebate of $75 is also available to new owners who take colts.

Jenks noted that new kaimanawa owners have access to a strong support network and should feel free to contact the trust if they have any questions about the horses or the application process.

The trust also offers a kaimanawa sponsorship programme, which has been enthusiastically received by members of the public who would like to help but don't have the resources or experience to take on a wild horse.

"Anyone who wants to help can do so by joining together with friends, workmates or family and sponsoring a kaimanawa horse," said the trust's Welfare Committee representative Michele Haultain.

"Sponsorship funds go directly to the homing, maintenance and training of kaimanawas, which are placed in the direct care of The Kaimanawa Wild Horse Welfare Trust," she said.

"Most of the horses, once trained, are sold on as affordable, reliable riding ponies, with the sale funds going back into the trust to help other horses.

"It's a win-win situation. The sponsors get to enjoy the experience of supporting New Zealand's iconic wild horse; the horses get the help they so urgently need; and a new generation of Kiwi riders get to experience the joys of riding safe, sensible, affordable little ponies like the ones we grew up with."

Three levels of kaimanawa sponsorship are available, starting at $75 a year.

Jenks said: "I can't emphasise enough how critical the situation is for this year's mustered kaimanawas.

"I would urge anyone who has ever thought of 'taking a walk on the wild side' with a kaimanawa to contact us today.

"Kaimanawa horses are a very special Kiwi heritage - and they need our help now."