"It's a monumental task," Mr Jenks said. "Those who don't find homes to go to will be sent to the abattoir, so our volunteers are working every available hour to get the word out."
In 2014, the society rehomed all but 15 horses. Almost 20 stallions were rehomed with professional horse trainers as part of their bid to promote the trainability of once wild horses.
Manawatu trainer Jazz Hirst has been helping with the muster for the past 10 years. Her mother, Heidi, was informed of the trust through a friend and the women have been proactive ever since. "Mum does the rehoming and used to help with the property checks. I do all the handling."
The pair have acquired their own two Kaimanawa horses as well.
"We got a gelding in 2006 who was about a year-old. We also got a filly in 2012 who was just a yearling."
The gelding prefers one-on-one contact while the mare is sociable.
"You can't put the horses all into one category. Some of them have never been touched so they react differently. Once they get to know there's no danger they are really nice animals."
The family rides both horses and Ms Hirst says those considering adoption will be well rewarded. "There are trainers like myself who can do the handling for those who can't. I've found this really rewarding ... it's nice to know there are people out there who really want these horses, not just because they are wild."
Society muster co-ordinator Simone Frewin said the society had received four applications with more pending.
"We have a very experienced network of horse handlers who are available to handle wild horses on behalf of new owners."
She said with time and patience, the horses can make incredible riding companions or sport ponies.
"Too many good ponies go to slaughter simply because people hesitate and the deadline passes."
For more information on the muster or the horses visit www.kaimanawaheritagehorses.org.nz.
