When winter weather takes a turn for the worse, having reliable shelter becomes essential for both horses and their owners. For one horse owner, protecting her horses from relentless rain, mud and strong winds was the driving force behind investing in a new horse shelter.
The Challenge
Located in an area of the North Island known for severe winter weather, Melanie Barker was becoming increasingly concerned about the conditions her horses faced during the colder months.
“We have atrocious weather in winter where we're located and it is getting worse, and even though my horses are rugged in winter, I hated seeing them out in the driving rain and mud,” she says.
There was also a practical consideration. Constant exposure to the elements meant horse rugs were wearing out faster than expected.
"At the rate they were going through rugs, I figured a shelter was probably the cheaper option!"
Finding the Right Shelter
Strength and durability were top priorities when searching for a solution.
With powerful winds common in the area, any shelter needed to be robust enough to withstand harsh conditions while remaining practical to install. A relocatable design was also a standout feature.
"Being moveable was an added bonus as I knew I could change the location if we installed it in the wrong place, or I could take it with me if we sold up,” she says.
After comparing options, Outpost stood out for its combination of value and design.
"The price was right and I really liked the look of the shelter itself. It has a nice design."
Confidence from Day One
Melanie says from the initial enquiry through to delivery, the process with the New Zealand, family-run business was straightforward.
"The team was great- very helpful and very easy to communicate with."
When one component became damaged in transit, the Outpost team quickly resolved the issue.
“It was replaced immediately, which I really appreciated,” she says.
Assembly was completed by her husband and stepson, a professional builder, who was particularly impressed with the quality of the materials.
"My stepson was most impressed with the quality of it."
Built for real New Zealand conditions
The shelter has quickly become a popular spot for the horses throughout the year.
"My favourite part is that my horses actually use it!"
While providing protection from winter storms, it has also become a valuable source of shade during summer and even just to “hang out.”
The thoughtful design details have also stood out.
"I like that it has the option for a clear light sheet and that the roofing iron goes all the way down the back for added weatherproofing and strength."
Standing up to the test
The confidence that Melanie had made the right choice came almost immediately.
"As soon as it was finished, I really liked the look of it," she says.
Positive feedback from builders and tradespeople reinforced that decision, but the real test came when the weather arrived.
"Hearing other tradies comment on the quality of the materials was great but I really knew I'd made the right choice after the first storm."
A worthwhile investment
Today, the shelter continues to provide reliable protection from the elements while offering a comfortable place for the horses to rest year-round.
"Outpost has absolutely met my expectations. It's a great product, high quality and backed by excellent service."
Her verdict?
"I would definitely recommend this product," she says.
Outpost Extra Large Paddock Shelter
Relocatable paddock shelters are an ideal solution for properties with limited natural shelter, providing horses with protection from harsh weather and welcome shade during the warmer months. They also double as practical storage space for equipment, feed and farm essentials.
Melanie chose the HMS401EX Extra Large Paddock Shelter, measuring 7.2m long x 3.5m wide x 2.9m high, to provide her horses with reliable, year-round shelter.
Built to handle New Zealand conditions, this robust design features durable 6x2 treated timber framing, exterior-grade 15mm plywood end walls and a heavy-duty 6x4-inch skid-mounted base for easy relocation.
Inside, the clear-span layout offers plenty of usable space, while solid 15mm plywood kickboards provide added strength and protection.
For even greater versatility, optional front gates and timber rails can be added to create individual holding stalls when required.
Reach out to our team to learn more or visit https://outpostbuildings.co.nz/products/extra-large-paddock-shelter
