About Us
- Eventing Auckland -
Eventing Auckland began life in 1983 under the then mantle of the Auckland Horse Trials Group. Formed by a collection of committed riders who saw the benefit in developing a dedicated Group to run Horse Trials in the Auckland area for adults to aspire to once leaving the ranks of Pony Club.
Although the group organised a number of events around the Auckland region at various venues, the first significant event was the American Express Invitation held at the Pukekohe Park. This event featured twelve international riders. Among them were Captain Mark Phillips and Mark Todd.
That venue hosted its first Three Day Event and remained the course of choice until, with the encouragement of Manukau City, and given the growth that was occurring, the event was moved to the Puhinui Reserve.
These early days, being sponsored by the Auckland International Airport, saw a number of very successful international invitation events attracting top local and international riders. The event's popularity also coincided with the success of New Zealand riders on the world stage - Mark Todd, Blyth Tait, Andrew Nicholson and Vaughan Jefferis.
More recently, the event has returned more to its grass roots traditions – but still remains the ultimate finale to the spring horse trial season for both local and some international riders. Held at the beautiful Puhinui Reserve, overlooking the Manukau Harbour, the event now hosts a cross section of classes - including classes for secondary school students - that allows everyone, from the novice to the full professional, to test their abilities and, of course, those of their horses.
Eventing Auckland traditionally runs the Three Day Event in December each year.
The current resurgence of the New Zealand riders on the international stage will encourage aspiring New Zealand based riders to develop their skills at the Puhinui Reserve, with the view to them one day competing for New Zealand.
Eventing Auckland sees itself playing a pivotal role in the ongoing success of equestrian riders both locally and internationally.
