A Department of Conservation ranger named Gary Hayes rescued a horse named Manuka trapped in a float at Birchwood Homestead, Ahuriri Conservation Park. The incident occurred while Gary was repairing the roof of historic stables.
Manuka was stuck in the float and unable to breathe. Gary used an angle grinder to cut away the metal partition of the float. The local fire brigade and a veterinarian arrived to assist in the rescue operation.
Angie Leckey, who runs Adventure Horse Trekking NZ, expressed gratitude for the rescue efforts. She noted, “We were so lucky that there were two DOC workers in the close vicinity as Manuka decided to launch himself over the front bar of the float, head down to the ground.”
Gary had no prior experience with horses before this incident. He stated, “Without the angle grinder I don’t know how I would’ve saved him.” His quick thinking and teamwork were crucial in this life-threatening situation.
Jack Zorab, another DOC worker involved, emphasized that it was a collaborative effort: “It really was a team effort.” Manuka has since fully recovered after the ordeal.
The closest Fire and Emergency NZ trucks were over 40 minutes away when they were called for help. This delay made Gary’s intervention even more critical.
