FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome To Issue Sixty Five Of The Dressage Nz Bulletin

Idid not expect to begin my February editorial with a heartfelt message to the Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Hawke’s Bay and Tairawhiti regions who have been affected first by flooding in the northern regions, and then by the crippling Cyclone Gabrielle. The devastation left behind cannot be adequately described. It is beyond comprehension what many of our friends are going through and we can but hope that the numerous local and national popup fundraisers and relief funds give practical and moral support, and hope. Thank you to Dressage Groups and members across the country who have rallied without hesitation. Today I have directly received an enormous thanks to you all from the area – they feel humbled by your extraordinary support.

Equestrian Sports NZ is grateful to the community who are supporting the ESNZ relief fund which is targeting assistance with guidance from those working in the areas, but we must be very mindful these areas will need our support in the months and years to come too, as it will be a long and painful recovery.

The future of the 2023 Land Rover Horse of the Year Show is unknown as I draw to a close. It is an unenviable position for the Board of Trustees, and the organisers anguish for the third year is shared by all the disciplines who have the privilege of being involved in a spectacular event that brings a magnificent array of equestrian sport to the wider community. But given what is happening in the Hawke’s Bay and Tairawhiti, we should just be grateful the local organising team is safe. That is by far the most important factor. For the rest of us who are safe, be grateful for each and every day we are safe, treasure that safety and let us all do what we can to support those affected, now and as long as they need us.

Kia kaha, Kia mia, Kia manawanu Be strong, be brave, be steadfast

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Cover Image: Lorraine Ward-Smith & Fernlea Diamond Day