About the New Zealand Side Saddle Association

Aims Areas Membership Newsletter Instructors Grade Tests Trophies & Awards Annual Championship Show

A little bit of intrigue still surrounds an elegantly dressed lady riding side-saddle. To anyone unfamiliar with this style of riding it seems impossible for a rider to sit safely on a horse when both legs are on the same side! However, a skilled rider riding aside on a well-trained horse can do almost everything that she can do riding astride.

The art of side-saddle riding is growing in popularity again all around the world, and has been actively promoted in New Zealand since the formation of the New Zealand Side Saddle Association in 1981. Originally based in Kaukapakapa, north of Auckland, the focus has traditionally been stronger in the South Island. The NZ Side Saddle Association is affiliated to the English Side Saddle Association, which was founded in 1974 “to preserve and promote the Art of Side Saddle”.

Gaye Day riding her cob "Benevolence"

Side saddle riding is a lot of fun.
Apart from the serious show days, the NZSSA holds “have-a-go” rallies periodically. These cater for all abilities and provide opportunities for the less experienced riders to learn new skills as well as have a great time with their friends. Riders from the Association are sometimes called upon to do displays at various equestrian events.

The welcome increase in sidesaddle riding over the last few years have resulted in the return of sidesaddle classes at a number of A&P shows. Tradition still plays a strong part in turnout, and the NZSSA suggests rules of dress which are based on those used in England.

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The Aims of the NZSSA

The New Zealand Side Saddle Association has as its aims:

¨ To promote and encourage the art of riding sidesaddle

¨ To provide instruction and a list of approved instructors

¨ To provide Judges’ Clinics and set guidelines for judging side saddle classes

¨ To organise an annual gathering for companionship, education and competition

¨ To liaise with overseas sidesaddle organisations and other New Zealand Equestrian Associations for the betterment of the sport

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Membership:

Membership is open to anyone interested in this elegant style of riding. Anyone can do it~

From 8:

Emma Kent on “Misty Cherie”

Dawn Pickett at The Otago Cavalcade

To 80!

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The NZSSA Areas

The New Zealand Side Saddle Association is organised in seven areas, spanning both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. These are:

In the North Island~

Northland/Auckland

Waikato

East Cape/Central

In the South Island~

Marlborough

Canterbury

Otago

Southland

Each region has its own Area Liaison Officer. See the Contact Us page for more information about NZSSA Office holders.

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The NZSSA Newsletter:

The Association Newsletter is sent to all financial members by our Publicity Officer every two months, and contains information and sidesaddle news from both New Zealand and overseas.

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NZSSA Approved Instructors/Examiners:

Contact the Secretary for a list of approved Instructors and Examiners.

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NZSSA Grade Tests:

The NZSSA has accepted with minor amendments the British Side Saddle Association’s four Grading Tests.

Please contact the Secretary if you would like to organise or sit a Grade Test.

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NZSSA Trophies:

Each year at the Annual General Meeting, the NZSSA awards the Springmount and Attendance Trophies to those Association members who have accumulated the most competition and attendance points in open competition throughout the year. There are also merit awards for members who have made significant personal achievements during the year.

Click here for more information about the Trophy Competitions and Personal Achievement awards.

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NZSSA Championship Show:

This day of competition occurs annually, usually in association with one of the major A&P Association district Shows, and alternates between the North and South Islands. The morning events end with the judging of Champion and Reserve Champion Adult and Junior Sidesaddle Riders. In the afternoon, events take on a more informal theme, and include jumping classes. There are a variety of classes to cater for riders of all levels of ability.

Line up at the Auckland Royal Easter Show

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