For more than 100 years, Archibalds has been part of Canterbury’s story. The family-founded and run dealership has been built on community, connection, and a genuine love for exceptional vehicles. Today, we’re proud to continue that legacy, by supporting local programmes and partnerships that celebrate passion, talent, and ambition.
Archibalds is thrilled to be returning to the Wanaka A&P Show for 2026 as the naming sponsor of the Pony Hunter Championship. Being part of the equestrian line-up is a proud moment for us, with a strategic partnership alignment of equestrian sports, which are ingrained in many of our marques’ DNA.
Not just an event, the annual show is an iconic celebration of rural culture, community, and connection. For our team, it is a chance to step out of the showroom and truly stand on the soil – to meet customers and friends of the business face-to-face and share our passion for exceptional vehicles with a wider community.
As proud allies and advocates of building up and supporting our community, we can’t wait to see our Archibalds partners compete in the equestrian competitions at the show. Since 2019, Archibalds has been a key supporter of the Rangi Ruru Girls’ School sport programme. From hockey to skiing to equestrian, Rangi Ruru has it all, and for them, sport is as much about participation and fun as it is about competition, challenge, and success at the top level.
When we heard that our friends were driving down to take part in the event, we decided to park up and take a moment to get to know one of the young competitors, her equestrian journey, her history with the sport, and of course what vehicle she thought most closely resembled her horse.
Charlotte and Her Equestrian Journey
Charlotte has been riding since she was just three years old, and horses have always been a big part of her life. Her beloved pony, Black Betty, has been by her side through countless rides and competitions and now even at school as part of Rangi Ruru’s specialised equestrian programme. What Charlotte loves most about equestrian life is the sense of community, meeting new people through the sport, and the quieter moments when she can enjoy relaxed rides at home.
Motivation, she says, comes from the people around her who support and encourage her, as well as her own drive to continually improve and do the best she can for her horses. Looking ahead, Charlotte is aiming to move onto hacks next season as she outgrows ponies, stepping up to show jumping at a higher level while continuing to develop her riding skills.
When asked what she’s most looking forward to at the Wanaka A&P Show, Charlotte didn’t hesitate: “the Archibalds Open Pony Hunter Class, browsing the shopping stalls, catching up with friends, and soaking up the unique atmosphere of the event.”
And of course, we had to ask her the ultimate question – if Black Betty were a vehicle from the Archibalds line-up, which would she be? Charlotte’s answer was perfect: “a Porsche 911, definitely. Sleek, fast, smooth and classy, just like the pony herself.”
We wish Charlotte and her teammates all the best for their competition line-up and look forward to catching up with them all when we’re down there. We will be bringing a selection of our premium brands including Lotus, Land Rover, Volvo, Porshe, and Polestar to showcase the very best of what Archibalds has to offer. We look forward to seeing you there!
