Top equine sport facility faces shut down threats

The venue is one of the few in the country that boast multiple sand arenas, making it useable year-round. Photo: Rosa Katavich 

The most used equestrian venue in the country is facing potential closure by the Environment Court, threatening the sport’s future.

Auckland’s Woodhill Sands in Helensville has been operating for over a decade, hosting competitions during the season almost every weekend.

Noise and environmental complaints have been lodged against the venue by neighbours, with the Environment Court stating in their most recent decision that Woodhill Sands can operate but under capped numbers, restricted competitive events, and capital work and rule changes.

Woodhill Sands Trust Chair Philippa Fourie stated in a recent email sent out to the venues regular competitors that this plan would not make Woodhill Sands financially viable.

“I am afraid that, put bluntly, whilst consent has been granted, the terms are not compatible with the facility continuing to operate as an equestrian facility at its current level.”

Fourie went on to state that they’re considering their options, but if an agreement can’t be reached the venue may have to be closed and sold.

Regular competitor Anna Wade fears that the closure of Woodhill Sands could have bigger ramifications for the sport, making it harder to access for younger generations.

CLIP: https://on.soundcloud.com/oBDkWGBbKgjKxe2UA

“The proposed rules from the Court too, forcing everyone to put their horses in pens instead of tying to the sides of the trucks, makes it so much more expensive for everyone.

“How can we get the sport to grow when it feels like everyone else is fighting it?

“I don’t think you’d find this issue happening for a local rugby pitch.”