Michael Boulgaris heads up luxury property firm Boulgaris Realty. Photo / Ted Baghurst
Luxury real estate agent Michael Boulgaris is in hospital after a riding accident on Saturday.
The head of Boulgaris Realty fell from his horse at a Takapoto Estate Showjumping event in the Waikato, according to the estate's equestrian manager Kerry Willetts.
Willetts was onsite and helped load Boulgaris into the rescue helicopter that took him to Middlemore Hospital in South Auckland.
"He was lying back and obviously in some pain...but he was coherent and talking fine."
Boulgaris' partner, Dylan Jones, told the Herald they had received a lot of support since the accident.
"We are so grateful for all the support of our close family and friends," he said.
"Michael is also appreciative of the expertise of his doctors and nurses who have thus far done wonders."
Jones, who is stuck overseas caring for a sick relative, said Boulgaris was now in recovery and that he would be out of hospital "as soon as possible".
"Knowing him, he will try to be back at work within the week.
"His business and staff continue to function at 110 per cent managing the successful trade of luxury real estate."
Jones also confirmed that Boulgaris' horse was at home and healthy.
Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter responded to the call-out on Saturday, describing the patient in his 50s as being in a serious but not life-threatening condition.
Willetts says the accident happened in the morning during warm-up, with a doctor and emergency nurse on site.
"He didn't actually get to jump," he said.
The Herald understands Boulgaris suffered a neck injury and had surgery on Saturday night, but is unable to confirm with Middlemore Hospital at this time.
The agency website describes Boulgaris as a household name for luxury property in Auckland's wealthy Remuera and the eastern suburbs, and someone who spends "all his spare time...with his animals".
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