Valachi Downs is a valued National Equine Welfare Partner of the NZ Horse Ambulance Trust. Prior to the Covid-19 #lockdown we were privileged to have a tour of the operation with General Manager, Gareth Downey. Founded by Kevin and Jo Hickman in 2006, Valachi Downs' original farm in Matamata is set on undulating, fertile terrain with the intention of providing the best foundation for their future equine athletes. Using the tenets of their knowledge as former athletes, the Hickmans are fully committed to provide a strong foundation to produce sound, athletic and healthy horses. The operation is now spread across 640 acres and three properties. There are 350 horses in Valachi Downs' portfolio, from three standing stallions to broodmares (wet and dry), weanlings, yearlings in preparation for sale or training, and with personal trainer Stephen Autridge, who has 50 horses in work. The Hickmans sell the majority of their colts and retain the fillies to race, eventually joining the bro...