Horse of the Year: Classy ending to action-filled week

John Thompson, on JHT Antonello, came first in dressage overall on the final day of the equestrian event. Photo / Warren Buckland

Thousands enjoyed their last chance to watch world-class competition, browse equestrian stalls and enjoy a family day in the sun at the final day of Farmlands Horse of the Year yesterday.

After an action-filled week, event organiser Dave Mee said he and his team were very pleased with how the event had turned out.

While he had no idea on numbers yet, they were estimating about 50,000 to 60,000 people had enjoyed the week-long event.

A grandstand filled to the brim with cheering spectators watched the final events of New Zealand's premier equestrian event - which ranged from dressage, showjumping and showing.

The day ended on a high note for winner of the Olympic Cup Helen McNaught, who said it had been "a great first year" for the organisers.

HOY board chairwoman and Hastings deputy mayor Cynthia Bowers was full of praise for this year's event.

"A highlight has been seeing and hearing the reactions from spectators," she said. "It's just been incredibly positive."

She was looking forward to seeing the financial figures but thought the gate take had been good, especially on Saturday.

There were always little things they could improve on, Ms Bowers said, which included the presentation of the grounds, ensuring there was enough mobility parking, and signage so "non-equestrian people can better understand aspects of the competition".

Trade stall owners thought this year had been quieter than previously but acknowledged that organisers had done well.

Champions Equestrians Supplies co-owner Sarah Richards said it had been a good week but she thought it hadn't been as busy as the previous four years their stall had been at the event.

She said it was still a better week than remaining at their Rotorua shop, and they had gotten the chance to see more of the events.

Diana Charles, who was selling Boeckmann Horse Floats, said the week had been quiet but successful. "The organisers had to find their feet," she said. "They tried very hard, they've been good about everything."