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 Sunday, the Eventing Challenge – 0.95m Cross Country + 1.10m Show Jumping and the Eventing Challenge –1.05m Cross Country + 1.20m Show Jumping.
This year, the New Zealand Mounted Games is hosting the IMGA Nations Team Championship at Equifest. Teams from Australia, South Africa, the USA, New Zealand, and a mixed United Nations team will compete for the IMGA Nations Team Champions 2024 title.
The week-long competition will culminate with the finals on Friday at Equifest. Riders from around the world gather in Taupo, to provide our overseas riders with ponies of a high calibre and to have an exciting, high-energy competition at Equifest! With six teams of five riders and five ponies in the arena simultaneously, it will be exciting to watch, action-packed and not for the faint-hearted.
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 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.
After your first day at Equifest, sit back and watch the fast-paced scurrying ponies in Friday's Festival of Speed, Presented by Wade Equine Coaches. 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.
Equifest Future Stars is returning with a slightly different format. Removing the competition element, this year provides an opportunity to experience the Equifest performance environment and showcase your performance skills.
Participants will receive mentorship during Equifest from Russell Higgins, Kelly Wilson, Ellie Harrison, and Hannah Catalino and the opportunity to perform with sound, lighting, and costumes during a Sunday showcase.
Competitor Zone
Check out our competitor zone for more information about competing at Equifest.
Dates & Location
18 - 20 October 2024
Fiber Fresh National Equestrian Centre, Taupō
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