New Zealand’s biggest equestrian event has been cancelled due to Covid-19. © Land Rover Horse of the Year Show
The 2021 Land Rover Horse of the Year Show is the latest big national event in New Zealand to fall victim to COVID-19.
The show, which costs around $2 million to stage, is New Zealand’s premier equestrian event showcase, and the largest of its kind in the nation, attracting over 1500 riders, 1900 horses and a whopping 45000 spectators.
Board chairman Tim Aitken said the event team had worked tirelessly to try and find a way for the show to proceed, but the uncertainty of COVID-19 alert levels left them with no choice but to cancel.
“We know there is huge support for us to go ahead however there were many factors we had to consider,” said Mr Aitken.
“These included financial implications for our show and its ongoing sustainability, the travel and time pressures for riders, the experience we can deliver for our riders and spectators, and most importantly of all, the health and wellbeing of everyone who attends the show.”
The cancellation is another blow for Hawke’s Bay, who will now miss out on the 11,000 visitors and $5.29 million visitor spend the show attracts to the region.
Mayor of Hastings Sandra Hazlehurst says Hastings is immensely proud to host the event. “Every year we look forward to welcoming the thousands of visitors to our beautiful district. Whilst it is disappointing and a huge loss to our economy, we support the decision and hope to see everyone in 2022.”
Event manager Sophie Blake said the decision was heart-breaking. “This is not a decision we made lightly, particularly when most of our expense have already been incurred, however we feel it is the right thing to do for our riders, stakeholders, exhibitors and spectators. We tried really hard to find a way to keep our show alive but sadly time was not on our side.”
Ms Blake expressed her gratitude for all the messages of goodwill from competitors, stakeholders, sponsors, and fans who had been incredibly supportive over the last 48 hours. “Our riders have worked very hard throughout the last 12 months to qualify for the show, and we are sad they will now not get to compete.”
“We also have 160 trade retailers from all around New Zealand who are no longer able to sell to our thousands of visitors, so we will be doing everything we can to try and support them and encourage everyone who can support them directly to do so.”
All tickets holders will receive full refunds over the next seven days. Riders and exhibitors will be notified directly about the next steps for them.
The Hastings-hosted 2022 Land Rover Horse of the Year 2022 has been confirmed for March 8-13.
Source: Event press release
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