Projects

Recreational horse riding study

Submissions to the Auckland Regional Council (ARC) Annual Plan 2006/07 highlighted that recreational horse riding (casual and non-competitive trekking) is a popular and growing activity in the Auckland region, but one for which it is increasingly difficult to find safe and convenient venues.

The horse riding community highlighted that they wanted the ARC to improve and expand access in regional parks for horse riders.

ARC parks has since undertaken a study on recreational horse riding in the Auckland region that identified the issues the horse riding community face and their priorities to promote, manage, plan and provide for horse riding in the Auckland region.

The study confirmed that there are a substantial number of riders who participate in recreational horse riding and that regional parks are an increasingly integral component of this recreational offer.

The main recommendations of the study were to:

• amend the horse riding policy framework set out in the Regional Parks Management Plan 2002;
• develop and improve off-park information systems, the management system, and horse riding facilities;
• support and encourage other providers, and the horse riding community, to create a regional network of recreational horse riding opportunities that offer a wide range of accessible and varied experiences.

The majority of actions will be incorporated into existing work programmes and projects, such as the review of the Regional Parks Management Plan and the development of a new online booking system.

If you would like more information, please contact Anna McElrea, Parks Policy Team Leader, on anna.mcelrea@arc.govt.nz or 366 2000 extn 8011.