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Half a century of horses, lifelong friendships and dedicated volunteers will be celebrated when Matakana Pony Club marks its 50th anniversary in 2027.
Founded in 1977 by a group of passionate local families, the club has grown into one of the district’s enduring community organisations, helping generations of young riders develop confidence, horsemanship, leadership and life skills.
The club’s founding committee included President Peter Wreaks, Secretary Thelma Burke and Head Coach Helen Peart, with Laurel Morrison joining the coaching team. Laurel remains closely connected with the club today as its Life Patron.
Like many community organisations of the era, the club was built through determination and volunteer effort. The park and pavilion were in poor condition when the club was established, but local families rolled up their sleeves to restore the facilities. Among those lending a hand was local garage owner Gary Campbell, whose practical support reflected the strong community spirit that has always been at the heart of the club.
That tradition continues today, with many current members and coaches having
deep local roots.
Current Head Coach Kim Beazley was herself coached by Laurel Morrison, continuing a remarkable coaching legacy that spans generations. The wider coaching team also reflects the club’s rich history. Kim Sterling rode with Warkworth Pony Club before later competing alongside Kim Beazley, while Toni Atkins joined Matakana Pony Club as a coach in 1989 and eventually succeeded Laurel Morrison as Head Coach.
Matakana Pony Club is part of the New Zealand Pony Club Association, a nationwide not-for-profit organisation dedicated to teaching horsemanship, sportsmanship, leadership and responsibility through qualified coaching and structured programmes for riders of all abilities.
As preparations begin for the 2026–27 season, which starts in October, the club is encouraging new members to discover everything Pony Club has to offer.
The club provides quality coaching across all riding levels, an increasingly popular Riders Without Horses programme, camps, rallies and competitions, along with a welcoming and supportive environment for juniors, teenagers and adults. It also boasts a thriving Adult Ride programme, with regular rides and social activities held throughout the year.
Prospective members and their families will have the opportunity to meet coaches and existing members at an open morning planned for September ahead of the new season.
The club’s 50th anniversary celebrations will take place during the first quarter of 2027, with former members, supporters and the wider community invited to come together to celebrate five decades of achievement, friendship and service.
Anyone interested in joining Matakana Pony Club or learning more about the anniversary celebrations is encouraged to watch for upcoming announcements as the club prepares to celebrate this significant milestone.
The club will hold an open morning on Sunday, September 20 from 10.30 am – 1pm.
