Southern Lakes Tartan Young Event Horse
Clarke Johnstone & Balmoral Sensation at Badminton wearing a scarf created by his Nan. Photo: Libby Law Photography
The Johnstone family know only too well how important it is for businesses to get in behind sport. They’ve all had so much pleasure and pride watching Clarke compete at top level, riding to sixth place and New Zealand’s highest placing at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games among other impressive global achievements.
So, it is no surprise to see Southern Lakes Tartan step up as sponsors of the Young Event Horse Championship. The company was borne out of one woman’s passion for the area, her craft and her family. It’s come from Clarke’s grandmother Shona who created a special tartan for her family – it was one that reflected the colours and textures of the Southern Lakes District that was so special to her. As others admired it and with a little encouragement and some official steps, it became the official registered tartan for the region.
“Creating and then having my Southern Lakes Tartan registered in Scotland has been a real thrill for me,” says Shona. “For me, the tartan portrays the soft blue of the lakes, the tussock covered hills, snow of winter and the dark shadows of the peaks that I love.”
From humble beginnings, the company has blossomed. It’s deeply entrenched in New Zealand, supporting the wool industry with the majority of their products woven in Aotearoa.
Southern Lakes Tartan produces fashion, homeware and fabric. “What began as a gift for my family has now evolved into a gift for a region.”
For more information, head to www.southernlakestartan.nz .