Kevin Hansen - Event Organiser

Kevin Hansen is no stranger to running exciting, innovative and rider-focused shows. He was the man behind the Horse of the Year Show shifting to Hawke’s Bay all those years ago and has been involved with many other top events on both sides of the Tasman. He’s planning to make the Cartown Kiwi Super Classic into something that will become one of the ‘go to’ shows in New Zealand.

“The grass surfaces here will be the best in the country by the time we have finished with them,” says Kevin, who is on the Manfeild Park Trust and is “determined” to make Manfeild an equestrian venue of choice.

“We know the surfaces need to be better here so are investing in a turf expert to do just that for our inaugural Kiwi Super Classic Show.”

Manfeild Park was established as an equestrian and car racing venue, as well as a community hub. “Equestrian needs to succeed at Manfeild. The venue and province is crying out for a high class show.”

Kevin Hansen - Event Organiser

Kevin and his wife, Sue, are relatively new to Manawatu, having moved there in 2024. “I recognise the equestrian talent here – both in organisational and riding talent.”

Kevin was a top rider, a level 3 FEI course designer, and hugely passionate about equestrianism, but he has long felt that there has been a gap in the national scene.“

I am increasingly finding normal Grand Prix shows and series classes are boring, and want to change that. New Zealand finds it hard to be world-class in New Zealand over international tracks, yet I truly believe we are among the world’s best up to 1.3m,” he says. “This is a start that will make a difference.”