Frequently Asked Questions

How can I pay for my order?

We accept payment via VISA, Mastercard, AfterPay, Zip, Bank Deposit and if you visit us in a trade stand, there is the option of good ol’ cash.

Do I need to register to buy online?

No, you can check out as a Guest. However, if you sign up for an account you’ll have a record of your orders (sizes, styles, etc). This is a handy tool for horse owners!

Is GST included?

Yes. GST is included in the prices of all our products. 

Can I exchange/return items?

Under most circumstances yes, we can exchange/return goods.  If the goods have a manufacture fault we will meet our obligations under the Consumer Guarantees Act to provide a remedy as soon as possible, this will be done via replacement, store credit or refund.  All SALE items are non-refundable. Please note that we must receive return items within 10 days of purchase and the product must be unused, and in its original packaging.  Courier costs may apply.  Please check our Returns Policy if you have any questions and please always call us prior to returning goods.  If you are unsure of item sizes, please use our sizing/fitting guides on individual product pages or click here.

When will I receive my order?

Orders are dispatched as soon as possible (within 24 hours) and will be with you within 3-7 days (weather events may delay deliveries). If for some reason your order cannot be delivered within that time, you will be informed and offered a variety of solutions to suit, including a refund. 

How much will shipping cost me? Do you ship to rural delivery addresses?

We have flat rate shipping costs around NZ which include Rural delivery.  A selection of shipping rates are offered prior to you confirming and paying for your order.  Rural delivery may take a day or two longer, unfortunately this is outside of our control.  NZ Post, CourierPost and New Zealand Couriers are utilised to send your orders, all items are tracked for security purposes.

Can I change or cancel my order?

If you would like to cancel or change your order please contact us as soon as possible so that we can sort it out for you.

How can I contact customer services?

You can contact us by filling out our online form or by emailing us at info@horsefit.co.nz.  We will get back to you as soon as possible.

What size turnout rug does my horse need?

It depends on which brand. For Horseware Ireland, most often customers go up one size compared to other brands to achieve proper fit. If you’re looking at your first Horseware turnout, refer to the HWI size guide & contact us info@horsefit.co.nz, we will be happy to assist you!

How do I wash and care for my turnout rugs?

It is very important if washing your waterproof rugs, to do so correctly. Water temperature should not exceed 30°C, use only non-bio enzyme laundry detergents. Enzymes can break down the waterproof coatings. Soap based products are best, we recommend Nikwax Rug Wash. Heat is not very friendly to waterproof coatings. Line dry only, keep away from hot heat sources such as wood stoves or tumble dryers. Do not: bleach, iron, or allow a rug cleaning service to use caustic laundry detergents on your turnout. Pressure washers/ water blasters may also damage waterproof coatings, despite how useful and tempting these tools are to.

How should I store my rugs and tack when not in use?

For turnouts, place out of direct sunlight when not on the horse. This will help to ensure the longevity of your product. Rugs routinely left over a fence or gate in direct sun will not last as long. If moisture is present in the turnout, airing to allow the layers to dry will provide optimum comfort for the horse when the cover goes back on. Off-season, store in a dry place avoiding extreme heat & UV exposure. Often turnouts will come with packaging which can be used as a storage bag. 

Leather products should be kept in dry areas, stored within cloth tack bags to discourage mould. Routinely cleaning & conditioning leather tack is best practice.

How does the Horseware Ireland 3-year waterproof guarantee work?

Every Horseware Ireland turnout which is eligible for the 3-year or 10-year waterproof guarantee will come with a card attached to the front closure providing a QR code and web address where customers can register their Rhino or Rambo turnout. Customers have 90-days to complete this registration. If you get stuck whilst completing the steps, contact HorseFit and let us help you, we’re here for it! If 90-days have already passed, please reach out to the retailer where you purchased the turnout as they may be able to assist. 

What should I do if I suspect the turnout is leaking?

We understand how important it is to have confidence in your horse’s gear, especially when it comes to keeping them dry & comfortable. We’re more than happy to troubleshoot with you further to ensure the best outcome for you & your horse. Please feel free to send through any photos or details about how and when the issue occurred, we’ll connect with you as soon as possible.

What’s the difference between a turnout rug and a stable rug?

A turnout rug features waterproof protection and are designed to protect your horse from natural elements.  Most stable rugs (under rug, doona) are designed for warmth & airflow in covered shelter (ie. stables). Often, stable rugs are not waterproof. Both turnouts and stable rugs can be multi-purpose, but generally stable rugs are lighter wearing, not waterproof and not intended for general paddock use. 

Are your rugs waterproof and breathable?

We carry top brands which are designed with the very latest technologies in fabric waterproofing & breathability. We are confident in the goods we sell because we use them on our own horses & dogs.

What weight of rug is suitable for NZ’s climate?

We consider all climates from the top of the North to the bottom of the South when choosing products for our collections. Depending on your region, the season, age of horse, breed, clipped or unclipped coat, paddock location & exposure, structural or natural shelter availability, livery or home grazed, herd or solo - we have options. For customised advice on which rug style is best suited to your horse, please contact us, we like to talk turnouts! 

Are the Micklem bridles manufactured with any nasties?

No, Micklem bridles are assembled with eco friendly vegetable tanned leather: All of the leather used across the Micklem range is tanned (finish and colour) using eco-friendly methods from plant sources such as the bark of trees, as opposed to chemicals.

REACH compliance: The manufacturing of Micklem leather adheres to stringent policy terms issued by the European Union to ensure chemicals that are harmful to the environment, employees or end users are not used during any part of the leather production.

Care is key: Oiling, cleaning and caring for your Micklem bridle from the very beginning is important. As with all leather items, it can take awhile for leather to soften up (be it shoes, bags or tack)

Do you support NZ-made or eco-friendly brands?

We specialise in imports but always maintain vacancy for NZ-made & eco-friendly products. Most waterproof horse covers sold in NZ present a similar carbon footprint. Choosing quality over quantity is often better for the environment, because fewer, better turnouts means less waste. We are conscientious the packaging materials we use to ship customer orders are made from recycled & recyclable materials and we will always look to continue improving our environmental initiatives.