In a bid to enhance safety on New Zealand's roads, the New Zealand Equestrian Advocacy Network (NZEAN) has joined forces with key equestrian organisations to advocate for formal recognition of horse riders as Vulnerable Road Users. This move comes in response to recent incidents highlighting the need for greater awareness and consideration from fellow road users.

The NZEAN, supported by entities such as New Zealand Riding for the Disabled (NZRDA), Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ), The New Zealand Pony Club Association (NZPCA), and Te Hapori Hōiho - National Māori Horse Association Aotearoa Trust, is spearheading a petition urging the House of Representatives to acknowledge the vulnerability of horse riders on the roadways.

As part of their efforts to effect change, the equestrian community is calling on stakeholders, including the transportation sector, to collaborate in spreading safety messaging. Central to this initiative is the "Pass Wide and Slow" campaign, a global message championed by equestrians worldwide. In New Zealand, a nationwide awareness ride is scheduled for September 14-15 to educate road users on safe practices around horse riders, with riders encouraged to wear high-visibility vests for increased safety.

To further support their cause, equestrians are collecting near-miss stories from riders across the country to highlight the risks they face and inform future advocacy efforts. Notably, recent incidents involving drivers failing to yield to horse riders have underscored the urgent need for greater awareness and education among road users. 

Highlighting the importance of collaboration, the equestrian community is reaching out to organisations and individuals to join forces in promoting road safety for horse riders. They aim to work with stakeholders to develop targeted materials for various platforms and publications to raise awareness and foster a culture of mutual respect on the roads.

The call for recognizing horse riders as Vulnerable Road Users is not just about legal recognition but also a plea for a collective shift in attitudes and behaviours towards sharing the road responsibly. By amplifying their message and engaging with key players in the transportation sector, the equestrian community seeks to foster a safer environment for all road users, both human and equine.

NZEAN, on behalf of equestrians, is leading a petition to the House of Representatives seeking this change.  Petition of New Zealand Equestrian Advocacy Network: Vulnerable road user status for New Zealand horse riders (petitions.parliament.nz)