Equifest competitions are fast-paced and provide a great spectacle for visitors.
For competitors competing is also a great way to put your skills to the test in a fun and supportive environment. With great prize money up for grabs and an exciting schedule of ESNZ series and support classes - there are plenty of reasons to enter and be part of the Equifest action.
Jumping is a true test of speed and accuracy as horse and rider navigate the course under conditions and obstacles, involving many turns and changes of direction. Equifest features ESNZ series classes and support classes.
Taking place on Friday afternoon, the Eventing Challenges will feature four different levels from 85cm Showjumping and 80-cm Cross Country through to 1.05m Cross Country + 1.10m Show Jumping.
For the first time ever, we’re excited to welcome Show Hunter to the Equifest lineup! The competition will take place Friday and Saturday, challenging both horse and rider to maintain a consistent rhythm, accuracy, and balance while demonstrating a natural and correct jumping technique.
This is a Branch (or Clubs without Branches) Team event consisting of six riders, two in each height, with a minimum of four riders in each team.
Riders and Horses do not need to be ESNZ registered for the NZPCA Teams Event classes, but must be current on the NZPCA database.
Working Equitation is a discipline designed to showcase traditional riding styles and equipment. It tests the horse and rider combination over various obstacles and is judged on timing and technique.
The Working Equitation competition will take place on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning at Equifest. The competition will include three phases, Flatwork, Ease of Handling and Speed.
The Kaimanawa Legacy Stallion Challenge will return showcasing the nation’s top Kaimanawa horses. Ten wild Kaimanawa stallions have been assigned to trainers for this years event.
The full competition will see fan favourite Freestyle classes return along with obstacles and Handling & Conditioning.
Cowboy Challenge is back, taking place on both Friday and Saturday mornings, this exciting event puts horse and rider partnerships to the test as they navigate a series of obstacles designed to mimic real-life challenges on the trail or farm. From bridges and gates to water crossings and tricky manoeuvres.
Also featured in Friday's Nightshow, the electrifying sport of barrel racing. Speed and precision collide as riders and their horses race around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels, fighting for the fastest time. It’s a night of horsepower, heart, and high stakes – you won’t want to miss it!
After your first day at Equifest, sit back and watch the fast-paced scurrying ponies in Friday's Festival of Speed. The epic rivalry will be heightened by the fantastic atmosphere of a large crowd with special sound and lighting effects in the Equifest indoor arena.
These little speed-seeking competitors are a blast to watch. You will be on the edge of your seat, thoroughly entertained as they zoom around the indoor arena.
Competitor Zone
Check out our competitor zone for more information about competing at Equifest.
Dates & Location
17 - 19 October 2025
Fiber Fresh National Equestrian Centre, Taupō