Solid Foundation Equestrian

Solid Foundation Equestrian, led by Emily Barton in Canterbury, New Zealand, provides training and coaching to help horses and riders build confidence, understanding, and lasting partnerships. With more than 25 years of equestrian experience, Emily works across English disciplines and takes a patient, holistic approach grounded in trust, connection, and mutual respect. Her background includes veterinary nursing, farming, animal husbandry, and qualifications in equine studies, sport horse management, coaching, and agriculture.

Services are tailored to each horse and rider, covering foal handling, float training, groundwork and desensitization, starting horses under saddle, and bringing horses back into work. The business also offers ongoing schooling, exposure to varied environments, and preparation and campaigning for showing, show hunter, show jumping, dressage, and eventing. Riders can access personalized coaching and lessons in groundwork, trauma recovery, flatwork, and competitive disciplines. Solid Foundation Equestrian also manages horse sales on behalf for a 10% commission. Whether developing a young horse or refining competition skills, the focus is on well-being, responsiveness, and a sound foundation for progress.