Louise Duncan

Louise Duncan is based in Levin, where she runs her own salon, Louise Duncan Hair Design. When she’s not behind the chair, she can be found in the arena with her horses, as dressage has been her passion for as long as she can remember.

Growing up in a horsey family, with a mother who is an ESNZ coach and FEI rider and a father who is a farrier, Louise was riding almost before she could walk. She progressed through Pony Club and captained the Manawatu–West Coast team four times at the NZPCA Dressage Champs.

At 17, Louise’s life changed when she contracted meningococcal meningitis, which left her paralyzed from the neck down, unable to speak, and resulted in several strokes. Following a long and intense rehabilitation, she made what doctors called a “miracle” recovery — and the best part was being able to ride again. Since then, she has competed in both able-bodied and Para Equestrian dressage, achieving more than she ever imagined.

One of her proudest achievements was becoming New Zealand Paralympian #233 and representing her country at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games with Showcase BC, a New Zealand-bred Warmblood. Together they finished 13th in the Grade IV Grand Prix A Test — a significant milestone and unforgettable experience.

Over the years, Louise has ridden some exceptional horses, including Wolkenstein BC, Don Ivanno, Hunniman, and Northern Ivanthus, winning Horse of the Year and National Championship titles, as well as achieving international success, including at the Queensland State Championships and as part of the winning NZL Team in the FEI World Dressage Challenge.

Career Highlights

  • Paris 2024 Paralympics – 13th in Grade IV Grand Prix A Test (with Showcase BC)

  • Boneo CPEDI*3 2024 (Melbourne) – 3rd in all Grade IV Tests, 3rd Overall Championship

  • NZ Horse of the Year 2024 (Grade IV) – Champion, Trophy for Highest Scores

  • Bates NZL Nationals 2024 (Grade IV) – Champion, winner of the Canter 4 Cancer Series

  • Queensland State Championship 2019 (Wolkenstein BC) – Champion, winning all tests

  • FEI World Dressage Challenge 2020 (Northern Ivanthus, Able-bodied) – 3rd PSG, part of the NZL Winning Team

Looking ahead, Louise is excited about returning to competition in Australia and is working towards LA 2028. She also serves on the Paralympics NZ Athletes’ Council and the Athletes’ Leaders Network, helping to amplify the voices of New Zealand’s athletes.