Paul and Kate Chapman
Mainland Coachwork owners Paul and Kate Chapman say it was a natural step for them to step up to move into sponsorship for a sport that gives them so much, and they chose the junior rider showjumping series because they figured they’re the up-and-comers to watch out for.
The Ashburton-based business, which was established in 2014, has had a slight tweak in recent times, moving away from floats, and now under the ownership of just co-founders Paul and Kate.
It’s very much a family operation, with Paul out the back heading up their nine-strong building team and Kate out the front with Ange, taking care of the admin and front desk.
Mainland Coachwork has a very holistic approach, with clients turning a base shell into exactly what they are after, right down to the finer details of interior colours. They’ve got three series – Executive, Huntsman and Mainland – and each will be the perfect starting place for a client. And there is a new one coming out shortly too called the Filly Series, which is smaller and holds a maximum of three horses
“We can create people’s dreams,” says Kate. “We are seeing a demand for that smaller size now, so it is exciting to be bringing that to market. I think the best thing about what we do is creating their perfect build within budget – the client controls the spend.”
Over the years they have met many people and like nothing more than being ringside to see them compete.
“We love going to watch the ones we know,” says Kate, who used to ride. “Through our business we get to know them so it is nice to follow them and see how they go.” They made it to the ESNZ Series Finals Show and were booked to go to the Land Rover Horse of the Year Show.
Their three children are more into motorbikes than horses which Kate figures probably isn’t a bad thing!
For more information, head to www.mainlandcoachwork.co.nz
Diana Dobson – 2 May 2023