Hunter Durrant

Assistant Trainer (New Zealand)

Hunter Durrant is Assistant Trainer at Te Akau’s permanent South Island stable at Riccarton, Christchurch. He leads the daily operation of the barn, rides trackwork and works closely with Mark Walker, Sam Bergerson and the wider New Zealand team on each horse’s training, placement and progress. He is also an important point of communication for owners with horses based in the South Island.

Hunter first developed his career with Te Akau before gaining further senior experience in Australia as a foreman with the Annabel Neasham stable. He later returned to lead Te Akau’s Riccarton operation, bringing back broader experience and a strong understanding of the standards required in a high-performance stable.

The South Island team recorded 45 wins from permanent Riccarton residents in 2024/25, securing Te Akau’s first South Island Trainers’ Premiership. The following season, the Riccarton arm contributed 50 wins to Te Akau’s 2025/26 national premiership and again finished as the leading South Island stable.

Hunter is known as a meticulous horseman, a hard worker and a clear communicator. His calm leadership, attention to detail and ability to place horses in the right environment have made the Riccarton stable an important part of Te Akau’s New Zealand operation and a valuable option for horses that benefit from a different routine or racing programme.

Working closely with the senior team across both islands, Hunter continues to strengthen the connection between Te Akau’s Matamata and Riccarton operations while maintaining consistent standards of horse care, communication and performance.