13/06/2026
CELEBRATING PONY CLUB & NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK 2026
Pony Club runs because volunteers quietly get things done.
They plan seasons, organise rallies, camps, clinics, competitions, and events. They book venues, arrange coaches and officials, write minutes, manage finances, apply for grants, organise fundraising, seek sponsorship, process memberships, answer emails, and run websites and social media.
They coach riders, mentor younger members, support families, organise certificates and badges, and welcome new members.
They cook sausages, bake scones and cakes, keep the kettle hot, prepare lunches, and make sure everyone is fed and looked after.
They mow grounds, repair fences, fill rabbit holes, paint buildings, maintain arenas, yards, sheds, tractors, and equipment, clear drains, stop leaks, clean toilets, prepare grounds, and even manage sheep, cattle, and other stock.
They build jumps, paint rails, maintain games equipment, transport gear, put up marquees, tow trailers, park vehicles, and keep facilities safe and ready to use.
They gear check, judge, steward, score events, manage prize giving, take photos, provide first aid, and help competitions run smoothly behind the scenes.
They lend horses, ponies, saddlery, gear, trailers, vehicles, tools, facilities, and equipment. They give lifts, transport horses, share knowledge, help with turnout, hold horses, find forgotten gear, and sometimes even lend a rider or horse so another member can take part.
They serve on committees, working groups, and boards, helping guide the future of Pony Club.
They are parents, grandparents, caregivers, coaches, committee members, officials, landowners, sponsors, supporters, members, and friends.
Most of these jobs happen before the first rider arrives and long after the last rider goes home.
💚 To every volunteer who gives their time, skills, knowledge, equipment, resources, and energy, "THANK YOU!" Pony Club simply would not exist without you.
Learn more about National Volunteer Week:
www.volunteeringnz.org.nz/campaigns/national-volunteer-week
