Youth, horses and coastal landscapes came together in early December when the Banks Peninsula Pony Club held its annual mini show and Christmas camp at Pigeon Bay.
The setting was historic Annandale Station, where participants stayed in the shearers’ quarters, immersing themselves in rural life.
One of the highlights was an evening bareback ride to the beach, where ponies and riders cooled off in the sea after a hot summer day. For some, it was their first experience of riding by the ocean, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The weekend included practice show classes, fancy dress competitions and games such as barrel racing and apple bobbing. Judges praised the progress of young riders and the creativity of the pony costumes.
The club expressed gratitude to the Wilson family and Annandale staff for hosting the event, describing the location as a hidden gem of the Peninsula.
Awards recognised both performance and effort, reinforcing Pony Club’s emphasis on learning, teamwork and personal development. An open day rally later in summer will invite new families to discover what Pony Club offers.
In an age of digital entertainment, Pony Club remains a powerful example of outdoor learning, responsibility and connection to place.
Banks Peninsula Pony Club held its annual mini show and Christmas camp at Pigeon Bay