Equestrian facility grabs attention

OPEN: Masterton mayor Lyn Patterson cuts the ribbon to Solway Showground's new equestrian arena. PHOTOS/SUPPLIED

Solway Showground's new equestrian arena will put Masterton on the map as one of the lower North Island's best show arenas, say organisers.

The $120,000 arena, measuring 75x100m, was officially opened yesterday morning by Masterton mayor Lyn Patterson.

Ms Patterson acknowledged councillor David Holmes, who attended the opening, as a strong advocate for equestrian and keeping the council reminded on how important the showgrounds were to Masterton.

She praised the Masterton A&P Association's board for raising the money and having the passion to pursue the build.

Board member Tinks Pottinger, of Tinui, a former Olympic equestrian medallist, said the board had called a meeting three years ago of all equestrian users to discuss creating an outdoor arena.

Volunteers and people involved in horses and equestrian banded together to remove the topsoil.

Construction services company Master Roads and Services won the tender to create the arena.

Ms Pottinger said it felt like they were "working with the best" with Master Roads.

"They took the project on personally and have done a fantastic job."

Her regret is Master Roads project manager Norm Wootton, who supervised the project, died before he could see their dream completed.

"A wonderful guy to work with," she said.

Ms Pottinger said the bookings for the new arena have been "phenomenal".

"There are people wanting to run events here from all over the North Island," she said.