Sign In / Register
A rural Kaipara Flats home will be auctioned on Saturday March 14 to raise funds for NZ Riding for the Disabled (NZRDA).
Located at 559 Old Kaipara Road, the 11.69ha property has been owned by longtime farmer and horse lover Lindsay Kirby for more than 40 years.
Kirby has been involved with pony clubs in Rodney for decades, hosted rides at her 24ha Mahurangi East peninsula property, and remained closely connected to the equestrian community through eventing and horse breeding.
An admirer of NZRDA for many years, she previously donated to the charity last year, but wanted to make a larger contribution.
Harcourts agent Tim Alexander said it was rare for the proceeds of a real estate auction to be donated to charity.
“This will be Lindsay’s wish being fulfilled and within her lifetime, which is really special for her and husband Mark,” he said.
NZRDA chief executive Donna Kennedy described it as a “game changer” and said they were deeply moved and incredibly grateful.
“The positive impact this generous gift will have on the lives of our riders living with physical, intellectual, emotional or sensory challenges is significant and truly makes a difference – we don’t take that lightly,” she said.
“Support like this makes it possible for us to provide carefully structured therapeutic riding sessions tailored to each person’s needs. Riders build strength and confidence, improve coordination and balance, and develop emotional regulation and perceptual-motor skills.
“In practical terms, the funds will go towards our horses, coaches and specially trained volunteers.”
Kennedy said that for many riders, NZRDA was a place where they felt capable, proud and connected, and that lasting impact was what mattered most.
NZRDA president Jody Leicester said the money raised from the sale would fund:
• Required qualifications and ongoing development for specialists
• Training of volunteer rider assistants
• Training resources
“This incredible gift from Lindsay will allow us to reach more riders and change more lives,” Leicester said.
