Statement on the North Otago Show

Attributable to Rachel Walker, President, Royal Agricultural Society:

The Royal Agricultural Society is extremely concerned by the information and footage regarding an incident at the North Otago A&P Show.

We have a zero-tolerance approach to animal cruelty and do not condone any acts of violence towards an animal or person.

The equestrian Rule GR6 covers Abuse of Exhibits, which is dealt with through the Resolution Process and a full investigation into the matter will be conducted.

While this matter is being managed by the North Otago A&P Show’s leadership, I have shared the Executive’s serious concerns regarding this situation and have offered them any support they may need.

We will continue to have a keen focus on this matter as it progresses and will continue to be in communication with the Show’s leadership.

We are also aware of commentary on social media and other channels that is currently circulating. While we appreciate the distress and serious concern being shared by many, we do not support any personal or pointed attacks that may cause harm – whether physical or otherwise – to the woman in the video.

We have a resolution process in place to ensure that a formal process is undertaken when serious incidents do occur, and we must allow that process to occur in a fair and just way.