The partnership between IRT and ESNZ sees both organisations working together to develop tools and resources that will support ongoing education around ensuring a focus on a ‘good life for the horse’. 

While the partnership takes an holistic approach that incorporates the wider equestrian sector, it also builds on initiatives already undertaken by ESNZ within the competitive disciplines of eventing, jumping, dressage, endurance and para-equestrian.  This includes supporting a number of key events on the equestrian calendar, demonstrating best practice and results for equine athletes, both horse and human.

Equine welfare is increasingly becoming a focus worldwide as public awareness of the treatment and well-being of horses continues to increase.  IRT has been transporting horses globally for 50 years, working closely with government bodies and key industry stakeholders, to streamline the transportation process, reducing the travel time, stress and risk associated with flying horses around the globe.   

IRT has flown every New Zealand Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Team to the Olympic Games.  It has also played an integral role in the establishment of shuttle stallion shipments for dual hemisphere breeding that has enhanced the development of strong international bloodlines within New Zealand’s equine breeding industries. 

ESNZ encourages any member needing assistance with travelling horses internationally to contact IRT who have been supporting New Zealand equestrians for over 40 years.