Drivers and steeds put through their paces

Participants went back in time at the weekend, travelling via horse and carriage at Carriage Driving Trials.

Twenty-three competitors from Shafts and Wheels Driving Associations from around the North Island travelled to the annual event which is held at a different location each year.

This year the event took place at the Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre.

There were three parts to the competition: dressage, cones, and marathon.

The Saturday competition began at 9am, and the Sunday drive began at 8.30am, with both finished by noon.

President of the Wairarapa Shafts and Wheels Driving Association Bob MacFarlane said the event was a great success, and he appreciated the "tremendous support" of Taratahi and local farmers. "They have been helpful and put themselves out for us.".