There is a strong sense of heritage at Stonehurst Farm. Seven generations of the Max Family have called it home. The land and now its sense of history and belonging have been cultivated and cherished by the present owners Laurence and Suzanne.
Recent investement and upgrading has made this equestrian centre amongst the top facilities in the top of the South Island.
There is obviously a need within the district that Stonehurst meets. Laurence and Suzanne bring the right skills to this aspect of their business.
Laurence is a farmer, stockman and horseman who rides regularly. He uses horses for stock work, back country rides and enjoys hosting ‘fun days’ where riders can learn the basics of handling cattle from horseback.
Also during their time with horse trekking and the equestrian centre, Laurence had total care of up to 80 horses and ponies on the property. Suzanne has an essential role in the business management of the facilities and generally keeping things running smoothly. Both are approachable and helpful and want to see this business enhancing the horse owning experience for as many people as possible.
From 1995 to 2012 an award winning horse trekking operation, riding school and equestrian centre was developed at the farm. These operated for 17years and attracted close to 100,000 visitors to the property over that time.
Due to a desire for a slightly quieter life these businesses have been sold but the quality facilities remain. This has allowed Stonehurst to be re-defined/redeveloped as a property ideally suited to grazing privately owned horses. Currently over 40 horses are cared for with their owners taking full advantage of the purpose built facilities.
