The Glenorchy Riding Club is planning to create a riding and schooling arena "which would change the nature of riding at the club".
Riding club president Vladka Kennett said it would be a solution for children who did not own their own horses, motivate riders and save them the time and money spent travelling to private arenas in Queenstown with horses in tow.
Ms Kennett said the land for the proposed arena was on the outskirts of Glenorchy and was changing hands, from the Department of Conservation to Queenstown Lakes District Council, both of which supported the proposal.
Construction would involve levelling and surfacing the area to make it more practical for use year-round.
"I hope it would operate all year to try to keep the horses fit and riders active," she said.
"It will solve the situation of wet, frosty grounds, which is not suitable for the horses."
At present, the club was looking into what design and materials to use but estimated the cost at $20,000 to $25,000.
"We would try to put together applications for funding but we will definitely make our own effort for fundraising.
"It's something that's there forever. Generations after us can use it. It's quite a valuable thing to have. Glenorchy is a strong riding community."
The club had about 20 members and she said a permanent facility dedicated to encouraging riders learn, practice and compete would encourage more to join the sport.
"If we had something, it would motivate people a lot more."
"It also brings better opportunity to organise small local competitions, fun days or just social events for the riding-orientated Glenorchy community."
The club now offers riding lessons in co-operation with High Country Horses, to teach children basic horse husbandry and horse safety.
There was no opposition to the initiative and informal rules were agreed with the Wyuna Station farm manager so the club and the farm's grazing did not compromise each other.
"We are a small community, so it's really important that you work together."
It had been hoped the arena would be ready for the next riding season but Ms Kennett acknowledged it was a long-term project and could take a little longer.
The project will be presented at the next (July) Glenorchy Community Association meeting.
For more details visit www.glenorchycommunity.co.nz
