Waitomo Caves Sports Day

29/03/2026

Waitomo Caves Sports Day: The mighty 'Zin Zan' was in action at the Waitomo Caves Sports Day. This pony is well known locally as a bit of a legend but has also competed right through to Horse of the Year Shows in the past on many occasions.

Given his success and history it is only fitting that he has had a trophy donated by the Forsyth Family in his honour for the Champion Pony Hunter in the Round the Ring jumping events.

Zin Zan has won this class at Waitomo Caves with no less that five riders over the years, but how many times he has won it in total is not yet confirmed. Those five riders were; Ahu Carnachan, Sidney Edwards, Natasha Forsythe, Charli Forsythe and Emily Smyth.

Today Zin Zan was once again competed by Emily Smyth from Otorohanga however this was only her second ride on 'Zinny'. The combination picked up a win in the Local Pony jump and came oh so close to lifting the trophy in the big jump but had to be content with winning the sash for Reserve Champion Hunter.

Congratulations to Lucy Schick from Cambridge who was the inaugural winner of the Zin Zan Trophy aboard her pony Cupid! 🐴❤️🏆

27/03/2026

27/03/2026

There will be a very special inaugural presentation of a cup to the Winner of the Waitomo Caves Hunter in the Pony ring. The cup, donated by the Forsythe family, longtime supporters of Waitomo Sports Day, is inspired by a local bush pony called Zin Zan, who has won the Champion Pony Hunter numerous times with at least 5 different riders. Zin Zan competed at Horse of the Year level for numerous years. Still going strong today, the presentation of a cup in his name, will reflect his legendary status amongst local and national equestrian competitors.
Come down to the Pony ring to watch the winner of Class 16, The Waitomo Caves Hunter, be presented with the 'Zin Zan Cup'

27/03/2026

We are ready for tomorrow and the 59th Waitomo Caves Sports Day. The Shearing may not be on (sensible decision in the interest of the sheep and shearers) but all other events are ready to go ................ and the weather ....... fingers crossed

26/03/2026

WAITOMO SPORTS DAY - SHEARING CANCELLED
Understandable decision has been made to cancel the Shearing at tomorrows Waitomo Sports Day. Whilst the sheep have been undercover, they need to go to pasture today and with today's weather forecast, they will not dry for shearing.

The rest of the Events and Sports Day are up and running and will go ahead tomorrow.
Hope to see you there

26/03/2026

The 59th Waitomo Sports Day.......