Source: Takapoto Estate

Photo above: Mitch and Kate Plaw with Takapoto +Estate Show Jumping show director Jaime Campbell and the 2018 Gold Tour winner Maurice Beatson aboard Gold Locks. Photo by Cheleken Photography

The wait is over for those waiting for New Zealand’s most eminent show, Takapoto Estate Show Jumping.

The first horses rode into the immaculately groomed Bellevue Main Arena this morning with competition building over two arenas right through to Sunday February 24 and cranking up again the following week with classes starting on Wednesday February 27, culminating with the Gold Tour final on Sunday March 3.

Takapoto Estate Show Jumping brings a slice of world-class European-styled equestrian competition to the home of the horse world in New Zealand. It has marked the dawn of a new era for New Zealand showjumping.

This year 747 combinations will battle it out for more than $142,000 prize money over the two weeks. Riders are coming in from across the globe, including France-based Takapoto Estate rider Samantha McIntosh, who has ridden at Olympic Games and World Championships, along with a number of top Australian riders and Aussie-based Kiwis too.

Riders from both sides of the Tasman are excited to compete at such a world-class venue with classes quick to fill to maximum capacity and long waiting lists for those who missed out.

Launched last year, the park-like grounds have gone through considerable development and this year competitors and spectators alike will be treated to something quite special.

The 19,930 metre-squared Bellevue Main Arena and viewing areas feature low limestone walls and a large marquee for VIP events. There is also a second competition area in the APL Sand Arena.

Demand has been huge for the VIP functions with the VIP Grand Prix Day (March 3) already sold out and tickets to the APL Cocktail Function (March 2) flying out the door. There are still limited tickets available for the Young Horse Finals Lunch (February 23) and the Harney & Sons High Tea (February 24).

Admission to the show during week days is free, with tickets to weekend competition available throughhttps://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2019/takapoto-estate-show-jumping/cambridge.

Takapoto Estate philanthropists Mitchell and Kate Plaw both grew up in the Waikato and are deeply entrenched in New Zealand high performance sport, pathway and community sport. This is their way of giving back to the community.

The event is nestled amongst more than half a million native trees on a stunningly landscaped 600 acres that rolls gently down to the shores of Lake Karapiro. Takapoto Estate is a brand synonymous with quality – whether it be world-class equestrian, its award-winning wines or supreme Angus and venison.

The investment by the Plaws in New Zealand showjumping is second-to-none. They have sought to create the very best in footing for horse and rider, bringing in international experts to ensure just that. Takapoto Estate Show Jumping lifts the standard of New Zealand showjumping to a whole new level – it has been applauded by riders, spectators and sponsors. It leads the way for the nation and can only mean better things for the future.