Waikato University major partner of inaugural Equidays

The University of Waikato is a major partner of the inaugural Equidays – a national equine event for all sectors of the industry.

Waikato University Vice-Chancellor Professor Roy Crawford says being involved in Equidays is a fitting partnership for the university.

“The University of Waikato is a very strong supporter of the region. We are strategic partners at the National Agricultural Fieldays, and it is fitting that we also play our part with this new event.”

Equidays starts on Friday and will showcase all aspects of the equine industry, from horse breeding and racing, to recreation and research.

Waikato Equine Industry

Professor Crawford says Equidays is particularly relevant to the university which has a strong and proud history of involvement and support in the agricultural and equine industry.

“At Fieldays we showcase how our research and collaboration at Waikato is making a difference to the land-based industry. But we also have strong connections with the equine industry,” he says.

“At Waikato we are teaching and researching in many relevant areas, from management through to animal behaviour. Our researchers and their students are always looking at ways to help improve productivity and add value to our region.”

Diversity

During Equidays the university will hold a series of presentations from experts and researchers, who will discuss maximising the commercial potential of the equine industry, the use of manuka honey in treatments for horses and the possibility for equi-tourism ventures in the Waikato.

Speakers include Associate Professor Stuart Locke, Director of the Institute for Business Research at the University of Waikato, Professor Peter Molan from the university’s Honey Research Unit, and masters students Sujata Singh and Alex Matheson.

Improving Strategies

Dr Locke says the equine supply chain is unreliable in some areas as there’s high staff turnover among staff and problems with alcohol and drug abuse. He suggests the industry is too fragmented with scope for cooperatives and franchises as ways of improving productivity.

He says we don't want to be just a low cost producer - we need a strong brand and good value – and add strategies so there are much better returns for all involved in this premier sporting industry.

Professor Peter Molan will also be presenting about using manuka honey in treatments for horses. 

Equidays takes place from November 18-20 and is held at Hamilton’s Mystery Creek. For information visit the Equidays website.