A group of six equestrian organisations have put their best hooves forward and adopted a “One Voice” pledge working towards being guardians of the horse, ensuring a good life for horses in Aotearoa, New Zealand. 

The organisations include Equestrian Sports New Zealand, New Zealand Pony Clubs Association, New Zealand Riding for the Disabled, New Zealand Riding Clubs, Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand and New Zealand Rodeo Cowboys Association. 

The group was formed after a hui was held in Wellington last year, where participants from across the equestrian sector came together and discussed horse welfare and social licence.   They shared their views about the relationships between equestrians in a variety of disciplines in New Zealand, and the positioning of horse welfare at the forefront for everyone engaged in the sport.

The guiding principles of the pledge bring these organisations together in a common and collective approach that sees equestrians as caretakers with a responsibility for horse welfare.

The pledge aligns with the FEI Charter, a public facing statement formulated with a clear vision towards the role of the human as a guardian ensuring the wellbeing of the horse. 

The participants say they are committed to maintaining communication pathways across all equestrian organisations, for the sake of the horse.

Chief Executive New Zealand Pony Clubs Association Lizzie Turnbull said the pledge was very important to her organisation.

“The “One Voice” pledge is fundamental to NZPCA, ensuring that the well-being of our horses and ponies remains central to our vision, mission, and purpose. By upholding these principles, we safeguard animal welfare today and equip our youth with the knowledge and tools to carry these values forward, safeguarding equestrian skills for the future,” said Lizzie.

Chief Executive New Zealand Riding for the Disabled Association Donna Kennedy said horses were critical to the programme provision at NZRDA. 

“Their wellbeing, both physically and mentally, must be at the forefront of any decision-making process.  Without the goodwill and generosity of our equines our service would not, and could not, exist.  NZRDA is proud to be part of the One Voice pledge and to advocate for the best life for our horses,” said Donna.

NZ Riding Clubs and Bridleways President Denise Brown said her organisation is all about promoting adults having quality time with their horses and other like-minded people. 

“This caring for, riding, learning and socialising with others, is important for their physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing.”  

Equestrian Sports New Zealand Chief Executive Julian Bowden said the One Voice pledge will be featured on HorseReg when members renew or join. 

“It is a privilege to involve horses in our sport and that privilege comes with responsibilities,” said Julian.

“This is our pledge to the horse.  It shows our collective commitment as we continue to develop an understanding of our sport partners and provide them with a good life across our competitive and recreational equestrian pursuits.”

Equestrian Sports New Zealand will be launching its Horse Welfare Guidelines and Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse, a Transport/Travel policy for horses travelling in NZ and an Extreme Weather policy (which also covers humans).  

Here is the Charter:  https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/OVEA-Charter-2024.pdf

IRT is Equestrian Sports NZ’s Official Horse Welfare Partner.

PHOTO: Annemarie Gruden