QUEENSTOWN HORSE FIELD GUIDE
D+ Examinations at Shotover Equestrian: A Razor-Focused Prep Day in Queenstown
A M Equestrian runs a concentrated exam session at Shotover Equestrian where candidates prepare, warm up and ride under the guidance of Michaela and Ashley—this guide explains the on‑site flow and what you must have in order to sit the test.
D+ Examinations at Shotover Equestrian: A Razor-Focused Prep Day in Queenstown.
D+ Examinations at Shotover Equestrian are a single, focused assessment: riders arrive early to groom, tack up and warm their horses, and then present their skills in a supported environment overseen by Michaela and Ashley of A M Equestrian. The session is designed to give each candidate time and coaching to ensure equipment and preparation meet exam standards.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Groom, Tack and Check
Candidates are expected to arrive well before the start time to catch, groom and tack up their mounts, and to leave time to clean tack and get dressed—this pre‑exam routine is part of the assessment process.
Expert Guidance on Exam Day
Experienced instructors Michaela and Ashley run the session at Shotover Equestrian, providing direction and a supportive environment intended to help candidates perform at their best.
A Focused, Supportive Assessment
The format emphasizes practical readiness—warm up, presentation and demonstration of required skills—so riders can showcase what they have prepared under exam conditions.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The day unfolds with purposeful calm: arrive early to complete catch, grooming and tacking rituals, step aside to clean and check gear, warm your horse, then ride your exam under the watchful support of Michaela and Ashley—an environment structured to steady nerves and maximize performance.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this session is for—and who should postpone.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring full grooming kit, your regular tack and any cleaning supplies so you can clean and check tack on arrival; be prepared to dress and warm your horse in the 1.5 hours before the exam.
Plan to arrive 1.5 hours early to complete catch, grooming, tacking and tack‑cleaning, and to have time for a warm‑up before the exam begins.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How will I receive final exam details?
More information will be emailed to candidates prior to the exam.
What does it cost to sit the D+ examination?
The cost for the D+ examination is $100.
How long is the exam session?
The exam duration is listed as 1 hour 40 minutes.
Where is the examination held and who runs it?
The examination takes place at Shotover Equestrian and is run with Michaela and Ashley under A M Equestrian.
Am I eligible to register for the exam?
Riders must have all line items signed off fully before their exam date and be a current AME Pony Club Centre Member in order to register.