Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Volunteer work
Timeline
Generic

Nikki Kitcheman

Hamilton

Summary

Energetic and action-oriented Community Support Facilitator with a proven track record as a leader and coach. As Head Coach at STAK pony club, and president of the Waikato area Pony club, having also received of NZPCA Coach of the Year, I bring an inclusive, motivational style focused on guiding youth through structured riding and life skills. I thrive in roles that require flexibility, responsiveness, and genuine connection.

Dedicated to empowering individuals to develop independence and well-being—in line with the Community Facilitator role’s emphasis on supporting people with long‑term mental health needs across Waikato, promoting "connection, choice and confidence" as described by Progress to Health and Enrich+ community support roles

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Coach

Equipontial
07.2023 - Current
  • Developed strong relationship with riders and volunteers to assist in reaching goals, and build trust and rapport.
  • Assisted coach in evaluating, horses and riders performance, identifying areas for improvement, and providing constructive feedback to ensure continuous growth and safety.
  • Observed riders and horses during situations to assess performance and provide improvement.
  • Supported team-building activities to foster camaraderie and trust among volunteers, leading to improved support for riders.

Horse Trainer, Stallion Handler

Royston Equine
01.2007 - Current


  • Enhanced horse performance by developing customized training programs tailored to individual needs and abilities.
  • Successfully prepared horses for competitions, resulting in numerous wins at local, regional, and national levels.
  • Maintained a safe and productive training environment by implementing strict safety protocols and procedures for both horses and riders.
  • Led group lessons for beginner through advanced riders focusing on horsemanship skills, riding techniques, and showmanship preparation.
  • Maintained animal health records, treating minor injuries and reporting serious injuries to owners for consultation with veterinarians.
  • Fit gear for horses and specific riders.



Treadlite

Treadlite
10.2022 - 05.2023
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Managed time efficiently to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.

Education

Bachelor of Teaching - Primary School Teaching

University of Waikato
Hamilton, NZ
03.2001

Skills

  • Personal discipline
  • Motivational Skills
  • Team motivation
  • Program Planning
  • Physically Fit
  • Practice Planning and Management
  • Equipment Use Monitoring

Volunteer work

I am dedicated and involved with my children's sport and passion. 

For the last 6 years, I have been the head coach for our branch, St Andrew-Koromatua pony club which is part of Hamilton Pony Club. I organise over 20 rallies a season. I am involved in organising coaches, fundraising, fun activities and learning for riders aged between the ages of 6 and 24.  I encourage riders and parents to learn about the safety, and care for horses as well as the competition opportunities.

I am the president of the Waikato area Pony Club where I manage and support the nine other clubs within the Waikato. We organise training, and competition opportunities for the riders in the Waikato and North Island. I was recently awarded NZPCA Coach of the year.

Timeline

Assistant Coach

Equipontial
07.2023 - Current

Treadlite

Treadlite
10.2022 - 05.2023

Horse Trainer, Stallion Handler

Royston Equine
01.2007 - Current

Bachelor of Teaching - Primary School Teaching

University of Waikato
Nikki Kitcheman