Miniature Horses like Apollo above are a height breed and can not be more than 38 inches high.

Technically a miniature horse is a small, sound, well balanced horse, falling within some height restrictions. Depending upon the category, they range in height from 30 inches for foals to 38 inches for a full grown horse. The miniature horse is a height breed and a full grown one will not exceed the maximum height of the two height categories: 34 inches for Category A, and 38 inches for Category B.

They should show refinement and femininity in the mare, boldness and masculinity in the stallion; at the same time displaying impeccable temperament. The general impression should be one of refinement, symmetry, agility and an alert intelligence.

There are a number of stories in relation to the origins of miniature horses- from selective breeding, through to them being descendants of Welsh Pit Ponies or Shetland Ponies. A London Magazine in 1796 published two articles about the importation from Bengal of a “tiny black stallion measuring only 30 inches” and a “little mare only two foot four inches high” from the East Indies. While these reports lend some credence to the belief that miniature horses trace their origins back to Europe where they were bred for royalty, there does not appear to be records to substantiate this belief.

In regards to miniature horses in New Zealand - in 1980 Eden Hore imported the first American Miniature Horses (5 stallions and 13 mares) into New Zealand, with David Goudie importing a large shipment of American and English Miniature Horses in 1988. Miniature horses in New Zealand include American, English, Australian and South American bloodlines.

The New Zealand Miniature Horse Association Inc. (NZMHA) was formed in 1996 by the amalgamation of the New Zealand Miniature Horse Breeders Association and the Miniature Horse Association of New Zealand, both of which had been operating since 1990. NZMHA became affiliated to the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand in 1998 in recognition of its efforts in establishing the breed register for Miniature Horses in New Zealand. NZMHA now has in excess of 750 members spread through out New Zealand and the World, with the number of registered miniature horses exceeding 8000.

Miniature Horses have quiet natures.

The role of NZMHA is to provide a national structure meeting the diverse needs and interests of the miniature horse owners throughout New Zealand. NZMHA is a non-profit member governed organisation. It has defined seven regions within New Zealand with the NZMHA Members in each region being represented by Regional Delegates. Within New Zealand NZMHA has a number of Affiliated Clubs, which provide fellowship and education for miniature horse owners in their areas. All members are encouraged to become involved in these local clubs.

Miniature Horse shows are run across the country with the youngest competitors competing in junior youth classes for children under 12 years of age. The oldest competitors are in their 80s. Classes at shows range from Halter Classes where the horse is judged on its type etc through to jumping, harness (horses pulling carts) and obstacle (horses being led around courses containing a number of obstacles).

You can raise miniature horses in smaller areas than the standard horse - approx 3 or 4 to the acre. Grass may have to be restricted in the spring and supplemented in the winter. Supplementary feeding is comparable to size- a small slice of hay or 2-3 cups of hard feed is usually all that is required.

As the foals are born quite tiny you may need to consider a stable or shed to help them through the first weeks. Otherwise, depending on your climate, no special facilities are required. Some overhead shelter from the cold winter winds and shady protection in the summer can be provided by simple sheds or mature trees.

These horses need standard vaccinations and wormers like larger horses. Feet need to be trimmed every 8 weeks or so – this should be attended to by those with appropriate expertise, although you can learn to do it yourself with readily available equipment. Teeth care is particularly important with the growing horse – an equine dentist should examine the teeth at least every six months.

Miniature horses make excellent pets because of their small size and gentle, affectionate nature. Their quiet temperament and intelligent interest ensure a place in the hearts of everyone. They are versatile in the show ring - as well as the conformation classes, the harness and jumping classes prove popular with competitors and spectators alike.

More information on miniature horses can be obtained from NZMHA through their website www.nzmha.co.nz, or by contacting them directly.