Shooting Star Stunt Riding
Shooting Star Stunt Riding is New Zealand’s premier equestrian stunt academy, founded by professional Australian Trick/Stunt rider, Jessica Smith. Specialising in Trick Riding, Mounted Combat and Horse Archery, the academy is the first of its kind in the nation, and is proud to be a key representative for these unique, incredible and thrilling equestrian disciplines in this country.
Jess has over a decade of horse experience and 7+ years’ experience in the entertainment industry. From working and training internationally alongside some of the world’s best equine stunt athletes, to helping coach and prep all levels of clientele in a safe, knowledgeable and professional learning environment. Jess has a multitude of experience performing professionally, showcasing trick riding live to more than half a million people to date, in over 100 performances as part of the ‘HLS’ Australian show team. Aside performing live in major rodeos, corporate events, conventions, expos, and both Agricultural & Royal shows - nationwide, she has also appeared in several Australasian TV shows and media coverage, as well helping wrangle, and offering guidance as needed. Throughout her budding career so far, she has built an extensive network of global connections with recognised, reputable industry professionals.
With an emphasis on safety, horsemanship, showmanship and professionalism, Shooting Star Stunt Riding is the ultimate destination for anyone looking for a fun new challenge in the saddle, in depth training, performers wanting to up-skill, or for specialized equestrian entertainment & action.
What we do
Whether you’re a general rider seeking a fun new challenge in the saddle, a performer looking to enhance your skill set, or perhaps just someone wishing to pursue a lifelong dream, we can help! Our professional, individually customised lessons cater from beginners (ages 10 +) through to advanced training, and are designed specific to your desired riding goals and ambitions. Our experienced and dedicated instructors provide all our students with the necessary fundamental and in-depth training, mentorship and ongoing support needed to achieve success within your chosen discipline/s, in a safe, supportive and professional learning environment.
‘SSSR’ work closely alongside Action Horse NZ, specialising in coordinating equine action sequences and supplying professionally trained horses, gear and skilled riders for on camera productions including Films, TV shows, commercials and media/promotion photoshoots. Additionally, Shooting star offer custom live performance and entertainment packages where our team of talented professional trick riders showcase these unique, thrilling and highly skilled equestrian stunts in shows, rodeos, events, expos, conventions around New Zealand.
SSSR is also affiliated with the NZSS, assisting with the professional stunt horse workshops run by international stunt coordinator Dayna Grant at the New Zealand Stunt school. This workshop is designed to teach stunt performers the basic horse falls, drags, tricks and skills at arms done in major films and TV series - in a safe, controlled and knowledgeable environment. *Only available to NZSS students*
