New Zealand Carriage Driving Society (Inc).

About the New Zealand Carriage Driving Society

The New Zealand Carriage Driving Society (NZCDS) is the national body for carriage driving in New Zealand. Formed in 1983, the Society brought together a number of established driving clubs to provide a coordinated approach to the development and enjoyment of the sport.

Today, our members and affiliated clubs are spread throughout the country, sharing a love of horses, ponies and driving. Carriage driving offers something for people of all ages and experience levels, whether their interest is in competition, learning new skills or simply enjoying time with their equine companions and fellow drivers.

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Our disciplines

Carriage driving in New Zealand offers a variety of competitive activities, each with its own challenges and rewards.

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Combined Driving

Combined Driving is the carriage driving equivalent of ridden eventing. It brings together three phases: dressage, marathon and cones, testing the skill and partnership of the driver, groom and horse or pony.

Events are held throughout the season, with drivers working towards the NZCDS Combined Driving Championships.

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Showing

Showing celebrates the presentation, manners and way of going of the horse or pony in harness, alongside the overall turnout of the driver and carriage.

Harness classes are held at A&P shows throughout New Zealand, as well as at shows organised by driving clubs and the NZCDS. National showing championships provide an opportunity for drivers to come together and showcase their turnouts.

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Driven Dressage

Driven Dressage focuses on the partnership, accuracy and harmony between the driver and horse or pony. Competitions are held locally and nationally, including an annual championship event.

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Precision Obstacle Driving

Precision Obstacle Driving, commonly known as POD, combines elements of dressage, obstacles and cones in an accessible and enjoyable competition.

A POD generally includes a dressage test in a smaller arena, followed by obstacle drives and a cones course. The obstacles can be driven in different directions or configurations, providing a fun challenge for drivers and their horses or ponies.

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More than competition

Carriage driving is about much more than competing. Our clubs and members also enjoy pleasure drives, fun days, training clinics, education days and opportunities to get together and catch up.

Whether you are new to driving, returning to the sport or have many years of experience, there is a place for you in the NZCDS community.

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Get involved

If you would like to learn more about carriage driving or find a club near you, visit our local clubs page. Our clubs are a great place to meet other drivers, find out what is happening in your area and take your next step into the sport.