I've been captivated by horses from day one.

Fortunately, my extended family lived on a farm, which introduced me to horses, particularly a remarkable Hispano-Árabe (Andalusian cross Arab) imported from Australia. His ever-giving-character, majestic presence and beauty of movement left an indelible mark on my heart.

I joined Belmont Pony Club, where my passion for horses continued to grow. My pursuit of knowledge led me to Palmerston North, where I embarked on a journey to study B.Agr.Sc. and finished a PhD in Animal Nutrition.

I couldn't stay away from horses, and I found opportunities to ride the young ones at Sanctuary Hill Andalusian Stud. Here, I encountered the magnificent imported grey Andalusian stallion, Catherino II. I was awestruck by the intelligence, grace, and trainability of these young horses.

My journey with Andalusians truly began when I bred Misterio, the first of many Andalusian partbreds sired by Catherino II. Juggling a busy science career, I regularly attended training clinics to improve my ability to handle and ride young horses. I also dabbled in various disciplines, from eventing and dressage to show jumping, depending on the strengths of each horse.

But my heart longed for a purebred Andalusian or Spanish Horse, now called Pura Raza Española or PRE. These horses were rare and exclusive in New Zealand.

Fast forward a few years, to the acquisition of some prime Manawatu farmland, previously a horse stud, and the dream of breeding PRE was on the horizon. The goal was to create a small, boutique stud producing bespoke horses for discerning enthusiasts of this ancient, baroque breed - The Royal Horse of Europe.

I began my research into these remarkable horses while observing a nest of young hawks on the farm. The name of the stud was inspired by this rare sight – Five Hawks Stud.

In 2016, a solo month-long quest to Spain and Portugal deepened my appreciation of Pura Raza Española (PRE) and Puro Sangue Lusitano (PSL) horses. After careful vet checks and tests, I acquired PRE Fuego IPA, a golden dream of a horse with a super-sweet temperament who could read my mind.

The rest is history!

My journey with horses has been a remarkable one, filled with challenges, dreams, and a deep love for these extraordinary animals. I am excited to continue my passion for breeding and promoting the beautiful Pura Raza Española (PRE) and their crosses through Five Hawks Stud.