Pony welfare is of the highest priority to the NZPA.

NZPA follow the guidelines of the HPA (Hurlingham Polo Association). Their welfare guidelines can be found at the link on this page and we recommend that all owners, players, grooms and officials read these guidelines.

There are also extensive rules in the HPA rulebook (found under the rules tab on www.polo.org.nz) that cover the management of ponies before, during, and after polo, including everything from stable management to tack and equipment. NZPA have a dedicated member in each association who oversees pony welfare (this can be found in the contacts section of the yearbook or on our webpage).

The ultimate responsibility for the care and welfare of the pony rests with the owner (alongside the NZ animal welfare Act 1999), who must insure the welfare of the pony at all times. This obligation extends into the winter months when the owner may have placed the pony under the care of a third-party, or into the ponies retirement from polo.

New Zealand Polo Association welfare officials may call on veterinary advice at any time. Nominated club welfare officers should be in attendance at all matches and practice chukkas arranged by club's to deal with any welfare issues. All owners, grooms, players and the support team should understand and adhere to these guidelines. Vets and welfare officers will regularly monitor ponies at polo, and the association welfare officers will investigate any welfare concerns reported to the NZPA.

Pony Welfare issues can be reported online at https://www.polo.org.nz/HealthSafety or at the link on this page.