CRDA Equestrian Centre
Officially opened on 11th of March 2004 this excellent purpose built equestrian facility is the result of years of planning and research by CRDA volunteer committee members. A major fundraising effort along with great community support and volunteer effort enabled this facility to be built. Funds raised from hiring the arena when not in use by CRDA maintains the facility to a high standard for all users.
In 2007 many hours were spent researching different types of surfaces for indoor arenas. We finally decided on a combination of Kakahu sand and clay. Since opening the arena, we have had many diverse hirers and the surface seems to be excellent. Thanks to all users for their positive feedback..
Arena details
A survey of Canterbury equestrian groups and other potential users helped define the size and layout of the arena. The clear span riding area is 40m by 80m with a Kakahu sand/clay mixture surface. A viewing area, toilets, seminar room and office are located on the 10m wide concrete pad along the east side. The eave height is 6m with a sloping safety wall around the riding area. With the addition of lighting to extend the hours of use, and ventilators to help increase the air flow inside, we are on the way with our list of major projects.
Arena hire
The CRDA Equestrian Centre has been built as a multi purpose facility. It is available for hire when not being used by CRDA. Terms and conditions of hire are contained in these documents:
CRDA runs therapeutic
riding sessions from 9am-3pm each weekday during the four school terms. Arena hire fees enable
CRDA to maintain and develop this facility to
a high standard for all users. Hire times and fees are dependent upon current use and the
discretion of CRDA committee (some
activities will not be suitable on this surface). A condition of our lease with the
Christchurch City Council is that the facility must be hired to the Canterbury A & P Association for
their annual November Show.
For more information about hiring the CRDA arena, contact Arena Booking Officer Christine Fitzsimon (contact details in sidebar at right). Please remember to include your phone number.