Greerton Pony Club

Rallies

Rallies are the mainstay of Pony Club where riders receive instruction, usually in small groups of similar ability. Greerton Pony Club runs approximately 20 rallies during the season (Aug to April). 

So what do you do?

  • Set Up - is 45 mins to an hour prior to the pony club rally starting. All families are required to help setup before rallies and pack down after rallies.
  • Pony Preparation - allow plenty of time to saddle up and familiarise yourself and your pony with the surroundings.
  • Be Safe - wear a NZPCA approved safety helmet and riding boots.
  • Listen for the Whistle - this announces the start of the rally; gather around for gear check.
  • Group Work - you will then be placed in a group of similar riding ability for instruction.

Occasionally un-mounted rallies (no horses or ponies) are held at the TESA rooms, covering horse master theory. Attending these rallies counts towards attendance points for the season.

Rallies last approximately 90 minutes.

Venues/Facilities

Tauranga Race Course

Most GPC rallies take place at the Greerton racecourse. This venue is shared with many organisations which means some guidelines need to be observed. Some areas are out of bounds so please ride with your group.

Entry to the venue is through the big metal gates off Cameron Rd. These gates must be closed after every vehicle. Follow the gravel road over the race tracks, and park your vehicle near the big shed on the right of the road. Do not park on the left of the road as this is our riding area.

Any hay, manure and rubbish must be removed by the riders, manure can be placed under hedges. No dogs or motorbikes are allowed.

Facilities include:

  • All weather arena
  • Office
  • Toilets
  • Storage shed
  • Concrete wash down bays
  • Pens

The Tauranga Equestrian Sports Association (TESA) manages this facility and also allow individuals to purchase a key for the all weather arena. Contact Jean McCall 07 544 5250 or Tauranga Saddlery on Maleme Street.


McLaren Falls Park

On McLaren Falls Road, is a large council owned park that provides some excellent hacking. The upper part of the park, off Lower Mangapapa Road, is one of Tauranga’s top Eventing venues. Occasionally Greerton Pony Club holds rallies here, Cross Country jumping is usually the focus of these rallies. McLaren falls park is a great place to ride and explore on horseback.

Treks

A couple of times per season rallies take the form of treks so our members benefit from a wide range of experiences. These may be at the TECT park or at the beach and are more casual.