Tauranga horse owners, along with riders from across New Zealand and internationally, are participating in the Tauranga Pass Wide and Slow Awareness Ride on September 14 to promote crucial road safety messages for equestrians. This event, part of a global movement including countries like the UK, Australia, and the US, aims to educate drivers on how to safely pass horses on the road by giving them wide berth and slowing down. Organised by local riding clubs and supported by Pass Wide and Slow NZ (PWASNZ), the ride highlights the vulnerability of horse riders as road users and the need for greater awareness and respect from motorists.

The event route in Greerton will be marshalled and marked for safety, with participants required to wear high-visibility clothing to enhance visibility. Police and local authorities back the initiative, emphasizing shared responsibility among all road users to prevent accidents and injuries. PWASNZ founder Julia McLean noted that this is one of the few dedicated road safety education efforts for equestrians, with rides planned in nearly 30 communities nationwide. The organisers encourage anyone to join—whether riding, walking, or volunteering—to amplify the message that the safety of horse riders and their animals matters.