Gates will open at 3pm with young, up-and-coming players having a hit-around.
The curtain raiser will start between 3.30pm and 4pm, followed by the main match, a Queen Elizabeth II Memorial team against a Tim Keyte (Simon’s father) Memorial side at around 5.30pm.
“A few of the players have had close ties with the royalty and all players bar one will be professional or semi-professional,” says David.
“The main thing is the opportunity. There are not many countries where you can get this close to some of the highest-handicapped polo players around. We’re a bit lucky in the central part of the North Island. We’re able to just turn up to these games, whereas in other countries you’ve got to book months in advance.
“It also lets the players get out there with the other professionals, normally they’re all playing in separate teams.”
David says there will be entertainment between matches, if time permits, including a champagne running race for the ladies.
The Christmas polo is a great social event for an end-of-year work function or to bring your friends and family to.
“[The community involvement] has always been a massive part of what we do and that’s why we’ve tried to keep it local, rather than selling our soul to the likes of Aucklanders. Te Awamutu, Cambridge and Ōhaupō - they’ve been so supportive over the years,” he says.
Head along and witness some of New Zealand’s top polo representatives on local soil, then join in the festivities post-match with Waipā DJ Matt Hicks.
Entry is $15 per person and children are free. The event is BYO and is gate sales only.
There will be car sites and family picnic zones available on the day, with limited marquee sites as well.
Contact David Fullerton on 021 686 430 if interested in a marquee site for your group or business.
