Pieces of Clydesdale history go under auction hammer

Popular Waikato attraction, Pirongia Clydesdales, will be experiencing a change of direction next month, with a reduction sale of horse-drawn wagons, harness and related items.

Pirongia Clydesdales’ owners, Nick and Jill van der Sande, say the sale decision has not been made lightly and is certainly not an easy one for the family. While the business will be operating at a smaller scale in future, the van der Sandes assure people that it’s not the end of the famous Clydesdales, which will still be available to visit at their Pirongia stables and function centre.

 “Many have been concerned that the sale marks the end of the business,” Jill says. “That’s not the case. It’s simply a sale to reduce the amount of gear and horse-drawn vehicles we have on-site, as we plan to reduce the amount of travel we do with the Clydesdale team.”

 Nick and Jill have owned the business since 1999, and regularly travel the country attending weddings and public events with their Clydesdales. Prior to that, they trained and managed the country’s famous DB Draught Clydesdales team from its outset in 1986. Their association with Clydesdale horses spans more than 40 years.

 “Most people don’t realise the work involved in running a public team of heavy horses at such a high level,” Jill adds. “While our time with the Clydesdales has provided some fantastic memories and experiences over the years, we look forward to a slightly quieter life from here.”

 At 10.30am on April 8, a high-quality selection of heavy and light horse wagons, carriages and gigs will go under the hammer at the Clydesdales’ Pirongia base. The catalogue includes working collars, harnesses and various other horse-drawn items. Special-interest items include one of the original DB Clydesdales USA imported show wagons, an American Conestoga wagon and harness from the original DB team. No Clydesdale horses will be offered for sale.

 Dubbed as a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’, the Pirongia Clydesdales sale offers a chance for enthusiasts and collectors to acquire unique pieces not found anywhere else on this side of the world. The van der Sandes promise an enjoyable family day out with buffet breakfast, coffee and refreshments being available on-site at The Coach House Country Café.

 For enquiries, or to view the full sale catalogue visit www.agonline.co.nz or call Neil Lyons on 0272 235784 or 07 855 9460.

 

SOURCENZ Horse & Pony
Previous articleReview of the 2017 Horse of the Year Show
Next articleHOY: a purple near-miss