One event on our late summer social calendar is the Takapoto Classic, one of the country’s most distinguished equestrian events of the year. With the support of like-minded brands such as Land Rover, this world-class showjumping competition has evolved into a celebratory affair that is as much about the experiences on offer as it is about the competition itself. And as we’ve borne witness to this year, the event is only poised to further its international stature, drawing the most discerning guests from across the globe to the annual Waikato-based affair.
Held at Takapoto Estate on the shores of Lake Karapiro, this annual tournament attracts New Zealand’s most elite equestrians (and a burgeoning roster of international riders) to compete over 10 days. The estate itself is a miraculous destination; a 600-acre property spanning three waterfront kilometres, home to a vineyard, boutique accommodation, and sought-after function areas, alongside world-class equestrian facilities and a horse-breeding program. Few other destinations in New Zealand meet this calibre, and as such, it is a fitting home for such a storied affair.
Courtesy of its sponsors, this year’s Takapoto Estate showjumping experience includes (beyond the horses) a delicious lineup of local cuisine from boutique food trucks, as well as award-winning New Zealand wines for spectators to enjoy while watching on. There are cafes, bars and a boutique trade village, which plays host to other adrenaline-inducing activities. Land Rover, for instance, has partnered with Takapoto to offer its Defender Off-Road Experience, a drive activation that showcases the capabilities and prowess of the latest Defender for those daring enough to drive (a brand representative can chauffeur if you’d prefer to ride shotgun).
Elsewhere, you’ll find the PHEV Display, highlighting the best in the brand’s latest innovations of hybrid luxury, alongside customer hosting (think private dinner functions and cocktail evenings), which furthers Land Rover’s longstanding, international relationship with the equestrian field — which they describe as part of their DNA. From its historic sponsorship of Burghley Horse trials and the three-day event in Kentucky, it is evident that showjumping and horse riding is something that has long been interwoven with Land Rover’s heritage and prestige.
Closer to home, Land Rover continues to build on this idea, having recently partnered with Equestrian Sport New Zealand to support our national high-performance team in training. Simultaneously, the partnership’s intention extends to a grassroots level, where the two forces hope to elevate all levels of equestrian in New Zealand.
Ultimately, the Takapoto Classic is an event that, should you feel even the slightest regret about not attending this year, calls to be earmarked in your dairy for 2024. Hosting some of the most discerning individuals with an appetite for adventure, it is the kind of experience that truly caters to all — and is something we should all get behind.
