End of an era: Crusaders say ‘neigh’ to horses at new stadium

After 30 years, the Crusaders have confirmed that horses will no longer be part of their Super Rugby home games at One NZ Stadium.

They first galloped around the field at Lancaster Park in 1996, and then at Apollo Projects Stadium for the last time against Fijian Drua on April 3rd.

With limited space around the new $672 million, multi-use venue, Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge says the six horses wouldn’t be able to avoid the playing surface, compromising their own safety, and the condition of the turf.

“We’ve tried our absolute best to make this work, and we want our Crusaders whānau to know we have left no stone unturned. Ultimately, safety must come first, even when the emotional cost is high.” Mansbridge explains.

“This is a decision that really hurts because the horses have been part of who we are from the very beginning, and we know how much they mean to our fans. That feeling of watching them run out in front of a packed crowd, while 'Conquest of Paradise' plays, is a feeling I will never forget.”

The six Crusaders' horses represent the six provincial unions of the top of the South Island: Tasman, Buller, West Coast, South Canterbury, Mid Canterbury and Canterbury.

Mark Donald, spokesperson for the riding group, says the decision was made under circumstances beyond his control, and he and the rest of the riders are devastated. 

“The infrastructure at the new stadium is simply not compatible with the Crusaders' horses, which is incredibly disappointing,” he says.

“We have been through everything with this team. From the earthquakes, then the mosque attack and Covid. The Crusaders mean everything to us; we aren’t just guys who ride horses around a field, we are an important part of this club, and this is what hurts the most.”

The Crusaders are due to play their first game at the new stadium as part of the Super Round on April 24th, facing the Waratahs on Friday night.

Saturday sees two games: the Hurricanes against the Brumbies, followed by the Blues and the Reds.

And there are two more games on Sunday: the Highlanders take on Moana Pasifika before the Chiefs meet Fijian Drua in the final game of the weekend.