Ponies stolen for a ' joy ride'

Five ponies were stolen over the weekend from The Pony Club's paddock in Kawerau. File photo / NZ Herald

Four ponies have been found by members of the public after thieves took them for a "joy ride" in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Five of the animals were stolen over the weekend from The Pony Club's paddock in Kawerau.

Police say one was found tethered at a river, and another was retrieved from Te Teko.

They say the thieves obviously ditched the ponies after they'd gone about their business.

Police are still looking for one more pony.

- Newstalk ZB