Equine events provide basis for Whanganui A&P show revival

Wanganui A & P Association secretary Tonimarie Heron and sponsor Mark Morton with Tika wearing one of the new blankets. Photo/Bevan Conley.

The Wanganui A&P show has been in decline during recent years and now a dedicated group is working hard to bring it back.

The show is on at the Wanganui Racecourse this weekend with horse events on both days.

Wanganui A&P Association secretary Tonimarie Heron says some top New Zealand riders will be competing for points towards national series classes on Sunday.

"While we are only able to run the horse show section this year we are looking to run everything again, plus additional sections next year," she says.

"The show has experienced a lull in the last five or so years to the point that the question of not having a show was raised.

"Fortunately, a lot of Whanganui businesses want to support us and we have raised over $13,000 in sponsorship."

One sponsor is Mark Morton of Harcourts who has provided funding for horse blankets.

"The blankets are expensive and Mark has been incredibly generous."

Heron says the 2018 show will offer a great range of events for equine fans.

"Saturday is the recreational showing classes, the hack show hunter jumping classes and a whole lot of show jumping classes.

"There will also be a pet parade on Saturday night."

The competitions on Sunday will provide the opportunity to watch riders such as Claudia Hay, Matthew Dickey, Robert Steele, Daniel Webb, Nick O'Leary, Sophie Scott, and Blake Davis in action.

"We have terrific entry numbers for this weekend and we are looking to running a bigger and better show next year."

Wanganui A&P Show, Wanganui Race Course, Purnell St, Saturday and Sunday from 10am. Free entry. Food vendors on site.