ABOUT STANDFAST
Standfast was born from legacy — a tribute to our father, John Grant, a fierce horseman and kaitiaki of the wild horses of Raukokore. He carried the motto of his Scottish ancestors — Stand Fast — and lived it every day: standing fast for his land, his people, and his whānau. That legacy now runs through us, his children, each carving our own path while carrying his deep love for horses, community, and connection. From the rugged coastline of Te Whānau-ā-Apanui to the roar of hooves on open whenua, Standfast is a living reflection of whakapapa, resilience, and purpose.
Standfast is now led by Aroha Grant — daughter of the late John Grant — who carries her father’s legacy with strength, humility, and vision. Aroha is a qualified Equine Assisted Therapist and a lifelong horsewoman, raised in the saddle and shaped by the whenua of Te Whānau-ā-Apanui. With a deep understanding of both horsemanship and healing, she weaves together her passion for helping others with the values her father instilled — whānau first, manaakitanga always, and standing fast in who you are. Under her guidance, Standfast continues to grow as a space of connection, courage, and care for all who visit.