NZPCA
How Do I Join Pony Club?
Pony Club encourages its members to:
Care for their horses and ponies.
Gain and improve riding skills.
Have fun with their horses/ponies and make new friends with similar interests.
Have a chance to compete in teams in Mounted Games, Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing. It
also fosters individual competition.
Have a chance to sit certificates at various levels.
Have respect for others and their horses, and adhere to the Fair Play Charter.
Many of New Zealand's leading riders began in Pony Club. All our Olympic equestrian riders were Pony Club members - Mark Todd, Blyth Tait, Vaughn Jefferis, Andrew Nicholson, Vicki Latta and Sally Clark.
There are Pony Club Branches all over NZ from remote country areas to inner city ones. To find out about the Pony Club nearest you contact us through the NZPCA Head Office.
Pony Club branches often have open days, where you can go along and see the facilities and find out what goes on. These are advertised in local papers and through information at local schools.
Getting Started
Purchasing a first pony can seem a daunting prospect to first time pony owners, but local Pony Club instructors and branches are happy to give advice to prospective members and often know of ponies coming up for sale. Some PC's have 'adopt a pony' schemes and/or lease arrangements for new members, these schemes are set up to attract new members. There are also private leasing options.
Saddlery and equipment is needed for a pony and many saddlery shops have starter packs for new owners. Contact the one nearest you through the phone book or the advertisers section in the Horse and Pony magazine.
Second hand gear can also be a cost saving option, but don't consider buying a second hand helmet. You will need a NZ Standard approved helmet and suitable boots to begin with.
As riders become more experienced they may wish to enter some competitions. Branches and Clubs often have training events for their members and team competitions with ribbons and trophies. Where transport is needed there are the options of hiring a float or sharing transports and costs. Some branches help with this organisation.
Parents
Yes, there is a considerable time commitment, as riders need supervision. Horses/ponies need regular attention, riding several days a week and checking on every day.
However, Pony Club is a great way to meet new friends and learn new skills.
Watching your child ride and look after their pony is very satisfying, especially as they develop new skills and confidence.
It is a healthy out door activity for both riders and parents. Good friends are made and there's lots of fun to be had.