NZPCA LIFE MEMBERS

Dudley Brown’s commitment to Pony Club and the wider equestrian community spans a lifetime.

His Pony Club journey began in 1985 when his children started riding. What began as a parent’s involvement soon grew into four decades of outstanding service to equestrian education and community development.

At the national level, Dudley served on the NZPCA Board from 2012 to 2017, where he chaired the Education and Development Committee. He was instrumental in launching the NZPCA Coaches Conference (first held in 2016), the Fast Track Coaching Programme (qualifying over 150 coaches), and the Coaching Advisory Panel. He also served on the eLearning Board in 2010 and has been Centre Member Auditor since 2015.

Dudley’s impact extends far beyond Pony Club. As Chief Executive of the NZ Equine ITO for 25 years, he established nationally recognised equine qualifications, revitalised the farriery profession, and created training pathways that opened doors for young people, including disadvantaged youth.

He has also contributed greatly to his community, serving as Treasurer of St Andrews Presbyterian Church for over 20 years and leading the Edale Aged Care Trust through major change.

With integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to developing others, Dudley Brown has been a mentor, advocate, and role model for generations. The NZPCA proudly recognises his lifelong contribution with the award of Life Membership.

Marj Steiner’s name is woven into the very fabric of the New Zealand Pony Club movement.

Few individuals have had the breadth, depth, and lasting impact on Pony Club that Marj has achieved. For over 40 years, she has served as a coach, leader, organiser, mentor, and advocate at every level of the organisation.

Her Pony Club journey began in the 1980s. Since then, she has held almost every role imaginable: Branch President, Head Coach, District Commissioner, and Area President. At the national level, she served on NZPCA’s Committee of Management from 1999 to 2010, as Vice President from 2007 to 2010, and as NZPCA President from 2010 to 2013. She also represented New Zealand internationally as Team Manager for the 2003 Inter-Pacific Exchange to Australia. More recently, she has contributed through the Health and Safety Committee and the Board Appointment Panel.

Marj was the driving force behind the 2024 NZPCA Eventing Championships, managing everything from venue preparation to volunteer coordination. She is also widely recognised as a steward, minutes-taker, event secretary, and trusted mentor to riders and coaches alike.

Known for her honesty, openness, and fearless integrity, Marj brings critical thinking and courageous leadership to every conversation. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and deep knowledge have inspired generations of riders, coaches, and volunteers.

Marj Steiner is a role model and a living example of Pony Club values in action. The NZPCA is proud to award her Life Membership in recognition of her exceptional service, inspiring leadership, and lifetime of contribution.

David Gibbons has been at the heart of Pony Club for over four decades.

His journey began in the 1980s at Waikanae Pony Club, where his leadership was evident early on. He became Branch President in 1988, later joining Horowhenua Pony Club in 1991, where he has been a President, District Commissioner, Treasurer, Camp Father, and Camp Cook. For more than 12 years, he has been a cornerstone of their annual week-long camps, nurturing generations of riders.

At the Area level, David served nine years as President of Manawatū West Coast Pony Club, also stepping in as interim Secretary, Treasurer, and Area Trustee, and supporting countless competitions and events.

Nationally, David has been a transformational leader: Vice President of NZPCA (1992–1999), Committee of Management representative (2010–2011), and organiser of major national events including Inter-Pacific Exchange selections, Zone Games, and Eventing Championships. Since 2022, he has served as NZPCA President, representing the organisation nationwide with warmth, humour, and wisdom.

David is known for leading by example—whether changing courses, putting up rails, or starting cross-country rounds in the rain. He has built a legacy of service, inspiring new leaders, supporting riders, and strengthening the Pony Club movement.

The NZPCA is honoured to recognise David Gibbons with Life Membership for his extraordinary service, leadership, and enduring contribution to our Pony Club whānau.

Kerry Currie’s involvement in Pony Club dates back to before 1987, beginning at Whitford Pony Club. Over the years, she has become an integral part of the Pony Club community, holding numerous roles at the national level. Kerry has been pivotal in developing certificates and exam syllabi, and she currently serves on the Health & Safety Executive Committee. As Head Coach for Clevedon and Auckland Manukau Pony Clubs and President of Auckland Area Pony Club, Kerry’s influence is profound and far-reaching.

Kerry’s expertise extends to organising and managing significant events, evidenced by her role as Secretary for AAPC Champs Week. She is often described as a walking encyclopedia of Pony Club knowledge, representing Auckland Area in coaching, examining, judging, and serving as Area Chair. Kerry’s contribution to the ECTP training program has been substantial; she was among the first to complete the program and remains one of its most dedicated educators.

Her commitment to Pony Club is matched by her dedication to her family. Balancing her responsibilities, Kerry has continued to support and mentor riders while raising her children and now her grandchildren. Known for her ability to connect with riders of all ages, Kerry’s leadership is marked by her tireless efforts in organizing events, training sessions, and supporting committees. Her no-nonsense approach and encouraging words have calmed nervous riders and parents alike.

Kerry’s passion for the equestrian community is evident in her extensive service and leadership. She has traveled extensively to fulfill her duties, often going above and beyond what is expected. Her contributions to Pony Club, combined with her personal dedication and resilience, make her a deserving recipient of the NZPCA Life Membership. Kerry Currie’s legacy in the Pony Club community is defined by her unwavering dedication, leadership, and positive influence.

Kerry sadly passed away on 2 April 2025.

Geraldine Rae an exceptional individual who has dedicated over 30 years to Pony Club. Her involvement began at the branch level as President of View Hill. This marked the start of a decades-long commitment.

She progressed to roles at Club and Area levels, serving as Delegate, Secretary, President, and Commissioner for North Canterbury. Her expertise extended to stewardship and officiating at championships, as well as contributing to organising committees and acting as an Exam Technical Delegate.

Her national involvement began in 2005 when she covered for the Canterbury Representative on the Committee of Management. Later, she became Vice President and then President of NZPCA after the organisation's restructure. Her dedication was evident in her interactions with members nationwide, sharing knowledge and guidance.

Post-Presidency, she continued to serve on the NZ Equine Research Foundation's board and mentored others within the association. She even managed the Inter Pacific team in Australia in 2013. Her commitment to her local Area and NZPCA is unwavering.

Canterbury Area • proudly nominated Geraldine Rae as a deserving candidate for Life Membership of the New Zealand Pony Club Association.