Big crowd expected at equine games

HORSEPLAY: The relationship between human and horse is the key at the Horsemanship Games.

Whangarei’s Barge Showgrounds will again host the Northland Natural Horsemanship Games on April 7.

Organised by four Waipu women, the popular event has become an annual fixture on Northland’s equestrian calendar.

There are 16 different games for contestants and their horses to play at their chosen skill level. All the events give everyone a chance to win ribbons and prizes if they complete the game in time, and with the relationship with their horse intact. 

At the end of the on-ground games late morning, and the horseback games mid-afternoon, Tori Murray-Elley and her horse Redinka will be giving two inspirational spotlights – showing both casual and formal riding styles.

Natural horsemanship is relating to your horse by using the horse’s own language. The human uses almost exclusively body language and modifies their natural predator responses. The horse then enters into more of a partnership with their human which opens the possibility for more fun and extends what a horse and human can do.

There will be food stalls, raffles and horse focused stalls. This is affordable fun for all at a cost of only $25 for participants for the day and free entry for spectators.

Go to www.animalherbs.co.nz/html/NorthlandHorsemanshipGames.htm to view the NHG website. You can download the games booklet and enrolment form and start practising for the fun and challenges the day will bring. Phone Pat on (09) 432 0018 for more information.