Riding with the Stars is a new international equestrian event announced for the Waikato, right in the heart of some of New Zealand’s finest horse country and featuring one of the best line-up of international horses and riders to ever compete in New Zealand! 

Spanning two consecutive nights and specially choreographed with arena-style production, Riding with the Stars will not only feature Australasia’s top horse men and women in a stunning indoor spectacular, but will also include performances and workshops from the Wilson sisters – the stars of the hugely-popular television show Keeping up with the Kaimanawas and bestselling author Kelly Wilson.

On opening night, Friday, February 12, dressage and showjumpers from both sides of the Tasman will compete.

The showjumping line-up includes three time Australian Olympian Vicki Roycroft, New Zealand’s golden girl Katie Laurie, Olympian Maurice Beatson, Aussie superstar Billy Raymont, and the very talented Vicki Wilson (Keeping up with the Kaimanawas) amongst a talent-stacked field.  This will be the only opportunity to see these Australian competitors in New Zealand this season.

The dressage competitors are some of the best from both sides of the Tasman.

With more than $16,000 in prize money on the line between the dressage and showjumping classes, there’ll be no concessions given between these fiercely competitive rivals.

On the second night, Saturday, February 13, the Wilson sisters will replicate all the excitement of their television series Keeping up with the Kaimanawas in a specially choreographed performance adapted to the live show, showcasing their very special relationship with these wild horses.

Riding with the Stars is being promoted by the Hansen family and Definitive Events Australia. Definitive Events are the team behind Australia’s largest equestrian festival, Melbourne’s hallmark event Equtana.

The Hansen family are New Zealand’s leading equestrian event promoters having successfully elevated the nation’s top horse show to new heights over the past 18 years

This inaugural event promises an up-close international experience with all the production and effects you’d find in the best Vegas’ show. 

Event director Andrew Hansen says the focus is on presenting top-notch world-class entertainment and production that shows equestrian in a whole new way.

“We are very excited to be bringing Kiwis a real edge-of-your-seat horse event that the whole family can enjoy… the kind that has never before been seen in New Zealand.”

Riding with the Stars is being held indoors at Claudelands Arena in Hamilton on February 12 and 13, 2016.  Grab your tickets from Ticketek… before the horse bolts!