Whanganui Riding for the Disabled buildings and other assets up for public tender

The Whanganui Riding for the Disabled Association has put its assets and inventory up for sale by public tender. Photo / Fin Ocheduszko Brown

Whanganui Riding for the Disabled’s assets and inventory are for sale after six years in its current premises.

The items are up for public tender in a “must view before buying” sale.

Riding for the Disabled (RDA) aims to provide interaction for people with disabilities, or who have specific challenges or needs, with horses to improve health and wellbeing.

It has been part of the Whanganui community since 1973.

In 2020, the charity bought the grounds and buildings at 233 and 237 London St from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

In a statement posted to Facebook last November, the association announced it would cease operations in its current form and enter a recess period.

It said the “post-Covid environment” had contributed to challenging times financially.

“We believe in our future and we believe that with time, renewed support and community strength, rebuilding is possible.

“As we take this time to pause, reflect and rebuild, we remain deeply grateful for our community’s ongoing support. This may be the end of one chapter but it opens the door to new beginnings.

“Together, we look forward to the day we can once again serve our riders and transform lives through the healing power of horses.”

At least three of the association’s horses have been sold to new owners.

Whanganui RDA is expected to provide an update on its future in the coming weeks. Photo / Fin Ocheduszko Brown

The asset sale includes the buildings, stables, two vehicles and items such as horse saddles, helmets, office equipment and more. It does not include the land.

Inventory is offered on an item-by-item basis.

Tenders close at 4pm on March 28, with viewing on March 27-28 from 9am-4pm.

In a March Facebook post, acting chairwoman and secretary Hannah Futter said structured strategic planning was ongoing to determine the organisation’s future.

Previous chairwoman Kate Jaunay and board member Shontelle Crosby have stepped down from their roles.

Whanganui RDA is expected to provide an update on its future in the coming weeks.

Fin Ocheduszko Brown is a multimedia journalist based in Whanganui.