One of New Zealand’s largest sporting events has been cancelled, with organisers of the Horse of the Year Show confirming the 2026 edition will not go ahead after they were unable to secure the funding needed.
The announcement was made today by the Horse of the Year Board, which said increasing operational costs and a drop in commercial and trade revenue had left the March 2026 event financially out of reach. The show cost about $2.2 million to stage and was regarded as the pinnacle of the country’s equestrian calendar.
Board chairperson Tim Aitken said the decision was “an incredibly tough call” but unavoidable.
“We could not deliver the show to the standard expected of a national flagship event,” he said.
“We needed to make the decision before entries opened and before infrastructure, accommodation and other major commitments were locked in.”
Held annually in Hastings for more than 20 years, the Horse of the Year Show attracted thousands of riders, supporters and spectators, contributing millions to the local economy. It spanned 14 disciplines and drew competitors and officials from across New Zealand and Australia. More than 400 volunteers usually supported the week-long competition at the Tōmoana Showgrounds.
Equestrian Sports New Zealand, which held the event rights, said it was disappointed to pull the plug but remains confident the show would return in 2027.
“This is a devastating blow for our equestrian community, from riders to sponsors and of course our trade partners,” chief executive Julian Bowden said.
“We will work collaboratively with key stakeholders to bring the show back next year, including looking at whether changes to the format may be needed.”
Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum said the impact would be felt widely across the region.
“The show delivers significant value to local businesses and the tourism economy, and provides enjoyment for our wider community,” she said.
“We are saddened not to welcome the national equestrian community in March 2026.”
The event was previously cancelled between 2021 and 2023 due to Covid-19 and Cyclone Gabrielle, before returning in 2024. Organisers said their focus now shifted to delivering a sustainable comeback in 2027.