Horse of the Year cancelled due to "ever-changing" Covid-19 situation
Organisers of this year's Land Rover Horse of the Year have announced the event will not go ahead due to the country's "ever-changing Covid-19 situation".
The decision was made at about 8pm this evening - just over a week before 1500 riders and 1900 horses were due to compete at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds.
At 6am on Sunday, Auckland moved into alert level 3 lockdown for seven days, while the rest of the country moved into level 2.
In a statement, organisers said it is not a decision they have made lightly, "particularly when the majority of our expense has already been incurred", however, they feel it is the right thing to do for the riders, stakeholders, exhibitors and spectators.
They thanked people for their "patience and enduring goodwill" as they worked through all the possible scenarios.
"We know there is huge support for us to go ahead however there are many factors we have had to consider. These include financial implications for our show and its ongoing sustainability, the travel and time pressures for riders, the experience we can deliver for our riders and spectators, and most importantly of all, the health & wellbeing of everyone who attends the show.
"With that in mind, we have made the heart-breaking decision to cancel the 2021 show. We are truly devastated and send all our best wishes to our Land Rover Horse of the Year family from all corners of New Zealand."
Riders & Exhibitors will receive direct communications about the next steps.
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