Milford NZ Polo Open magazine 2026

Sunday 15 February 2026

Welcome TO THE 2026 MILFORD NZ POLO OPEN

Set against the rolling green backdrop of rural Auckland, the Milford NZ Polo Open returns in 2026 as one of the most prestigious fixtures on the New Zealand sporting and social calendar. Held at the iconic Fisher Field in Clevedon, the tournament is a compelling celebration of elite sport, heritage, and summer hospitality – an event that attracts polo purists, sporting enthusiasts, families and first-time spectators alike.

First contested in 1977, the Milford NZ Polo Open has evolved into the country’s premier polo tournament, consistently drawing the strongest local and international talent to New Zealand shores. For nearly five decades, it has represented the pinnacle of the sport in this country; where exceptional horsemanship meets tactical precision and where the finest players supported by world-class horses prepared to the highest standard compete for one of the most coveted trophies in Southern Hemisphere polo.

Winning the Milford NZ Polo Open is not merely a result – it is a statement, etched into the sport’s history. 24

teams compete throughout the week, culminating in the finals on Sunday 15 February. Every chukka is hard-fought, every goal earned, and every match builds toward a final that has become a highlight of the summer season.

Beyond the field, the Milford NZ Polo Open is a vibrant social occasion where fashion meets exceptional hospitality. From Champagne enjoyed field side to fabulous food and so much to do and see, the event brings together friends, families,

We are thrilled to welcome readers to the Milford Polo NZ 2026 Tournament, and immensely proud that Milford is the naming sponsor of this iconic event. Polo represents excellence, discipline, and teamwork – values that closely mirror how we think about investing and partnership.

At Milford, exceptional performance is never achieved alone. It comes from working together, sharing ambition, and holding ourselves to the highest standards. Our partnership with NZ Polo Open reflects this belief: a shared commitment to precision, performance,

and corporate guests to savour the atmosphere as much as the sport.

We invite you to join us at Fisher Field, to experience the drama first-hand and to be part of a tradition that continues to define excellence in the sport.

The Milford NZ Polo Open is more than a tournament. It is a summer institution, a celebration of heritage, and an unmissable occasion on the New Zealand sporting calendar.

and delivering results that endure. Supporting this tournament is about more than sport. It’s about backing a community that values dedication, preparation, and trust – principles we apply every day as we work to achieve outstanding outcomes for our clients. We wish all players, supporters, and organisers a memorable tournament and look forward to being part of an unforgettable season of world class polo.

Look out for the green #NZOTTB stickers on some of the polo ponies. This means they are a retrained thoroughbred racehorse and in the running for a $3000 cash prize. New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing sponsors the best playing thoroughbreds in polo. Seeing these horses excel beyond the racetrack and celebrating their versatility is a key part of the welfare levy which is funded by racing stakes money that is set aside for the welfare of thoroughbreds while racing and in their second careers.

SPRITZ SUMMER

For the perfect polo day beverage, Stoneleigh Wine Spritzes are light, crisp and vibrant cocktails with tropical flavours. Find them at the Chukka Bar and the Stoneleigh VIP Pony Lines.

CLEVEDON SUMMER

SELFIE POP-UP

Swing by the Clevedon pop-up in the Polo Village and capture your ultimate summer moment.

Snap a selfie, share it with us for a chance to win a hamper of local Clevedon goodies!

Tag: @Clevedon_nz

Follow: Clevedon NZ on Instagram and Facebook or visit Clevedon.co.nz

Sideline Action

Along with all the drama on the field, there will be lots to do and see on the sidelines throughout the day. Be sure to make time to explore all that the Milford NZ Polo Open has to offer for a truly fun day out!

Cool retreat

Step out of the sun and into the Antipodes shaded lounge. Nestled beside the Chukka Lawn, this beautiful space invites you to sit back, relax and receive complimentary sunscreen applications from the Antipodes skincare experts. Protection never looked so good.

THE EDGE AFTER PARTY

As the sun sets after the final whistle has been blown, The Chukka Lawn & Stoneleigh VIP Pony Lines will play host to the best Polo Party New Zealand has to offer. With top DJs spinning the best tracks, you and the players will dance the night away under the stars alfresco style. Please note this is strictly R18.

Sideline style rescue

The Edge will be onsite for a day like no other — and when you’re right in the middle of the action, even the best outfits and makeup sometimes need a little rescue. Located in the Polo Village, the Edge Pamper Zone is your go-to for quick hair and makeup touch-ups, a moment to reset, or those all-important emergency fixes (yes, there’s glue for that shoe). Designed to keep the day running seamlessly, it’s a space to refresh, regroup and head back to the field looking — and feeling — your best.

Make a weekend of it and stay with our fabulous hotel partner, DoubleTree by Hilton Auckland Karaka.

THE ALTOS GENTLEMEN'S DASH

Join the line up and show off your sporting prowess and lightning speed, in this fun but highly-competitive race. A premium bottle of Olmeca Altos Plata Tequila is waiting for the first across the finish line.

DIVOTS, DRINKS & DELIGHTS

After stomping the divots, head to the Polo Village – the social epicentre of the Open. With an irresistible line-up of food trucks, the Chukka Bar pouring all day, and a lively mix of entertainment and surprises, it’s a buzzing hub of flavour, fun, and fabulous people.

$4 MILLION RACE NEEDS 12 NEW OWNERS FREE TO ENTER. CASH TO BE WON.

Visit The NZB Kiwi Golden Ticket ‘cash grab’ machine by Polo Hill for your chance to win a VIP stake in The People’s Horse. We’re giving away two of only 12 Golden Tickets in the country, and if you score one, you’ll secure your place in the ownership mix as The People’s Horse lines up in the 2026 NZB Kiwi - New Zealand’s richest horse race on 7 March at Ellerslie Racecourse.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO ENTER OR VISIT kiwigoldenticket.nz T&Cs Apply

Exclusive to the Milford NZ Polo Open, Coast has created a limited-edition Weekender Bag. Handcrafted in New Zealand, these gorgeous bags are made from the highest-quality materials and are designed to withstand years of adventures while continuing to look superb. The winning polo team will each be taking one home. Find out more at Coastnewzealand.com

WHISPERING ANGEL DASH

Kick off your heels and join in this fun, fast and furious dash across the field. Thanks to our friends in Cotes de Provence, this race is open to all the women (over 18) at the polo. Can you sprint your way to win a fabulous Whispering Angel magnum?

Horse versus Horsepower

This race is always a firm favourite with everyone, spectators line the boards to see who will be fastest in a race between machine & equine. Who will win – the horse or the car?

Polo by the book

Knowing the rules of polo makes watching this thrilling sport even more exciting.

The essence of polo is this: two teams of four players try to score as many goals as they can. The team with the most goals at the end wins. It is infinitely easier said than done.

THE PLAYERS & PONIES

These experienced riders control their ponies by holding the reins in their left hand, while they hit the ball by swinging their mallets in the right hand. If you’re left-handed you must still use the mallet in your right hand to avoid potential clashes. Polo ponies can do up to 55km per hour and are often NZ Thoroughbreds retrained from racing.

THE TEAMS

Like golf, the four team members each have a handicap. A learner will start at -2 goals, while the very best players are at 10 goal. There are less than a dozen 10 goal players globally. The team handicap is worked out by adding the players’ handicaps together.

Learn to Play

Did you know that it's never too late to learn to play the Sport of Kings? No matter your level of experience when it comes to horse riding, there are places where you can give polo a go. The Auckland Polo Academy in Clevedon and Ainsley Polo in Bombay offer lessons, polo holidays and polo experiences for all ages and abilities. Visit aucklandpolo.co.nz/ auckland-polo-academy and ainsleypolo.com to find out more.

POSITIONS

Players are a 1, 2, 3 or 4 and all can score goals. Numbers 1 and 2 are typically forward, attacking and offensive players, like strikers in soccer. Number 3 is netball’s centre equivalent – the playmaker – often held by the highest handicapped player. Number 4 is the defence who is able to hit long, accurate shots to get the ball out of the danger area. Due to the pace of the game, positions tend to be interchangeable.

THE PITCH & GOALS

The pitch known as the field, measures 274m long by 146m wide and is just under 10 acres in size. That’s the equivalent of nine football pitches. The goals are 7.3m wide and collapsible for safety’s sake. Once a goal is scored, teams switch directions in the interests of fairness.

LENGTH OF GAME

This consists of 4 to 6, 7.5 minute periods called chukkas. Play continues until the ball goes out or the whistle is blown.

UMPIRES

There are two mounted umpires on the pitch and third off the field, who will arbitrate if the first two can’t agree. One of the mounted umpires will throw the ball into play mid-field. Throw-ins happen at the start of each chukka and after every goal.

RIGHT OF WAY

This is the line in which the ball is travelling. The player who has just hit the ball has right of way and no player can cross in front of that player, unless there is absolutely no danger to pony or rider. If they cross in a dangerous way, that’s a foul.

HOOKING STICKS

It may look like dirty play, but it’s a perfectly legal and acceptable defence, so long as it’s done from the same side as the ball and the stick must be below shoulder height.

PENALTY

Entirely dependent on the foul, a free hit at goal 30 or 40 yards from the posts can be awarded to a player fouled against.

WHY SO MANY PONIES?

Because these ponies go hard and fast, a number of horses are needed. Most riders will have at least six to eight ponies per game. They’re saddled, warmed up and on the sidelines tended by the grooms. You’ll see a number of players switch ponies mid-chukka; they’ll often leap from their mount to their new pony without their feet touching the ground!

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Fashion at the Polo

Look picture perfect in chic summer fashion that brings an elegant yet relaxed glamour to the day.

For guys, when it comes to looking cool on the sideline, the key is to keep it casual but classy. A summer suit works wonderfully and there’s no need for a tie. Or throw on a relaxed blazer and pair with tailored shorts or chinos.

If you don’t fancy a jacket in the heat, or know it’s probably going to come off as the temperature rises, aim for a sharp shirt. Keep it sophisticated in a crisp white or soft pastels. Avoid loud patterns, you don’t want to scare the horses. And, of course, there’s no better place to rock a polo shirt, than at the polo!

As dress codes go, the one for polo is relatively simple and rule-free. Well, almost. Because watching the Milford NZ Polo Open is, after all, a day in the country.

For the most part, dress for a stylishly relaxed summer’s day and you won’t go wrong. Look for natural fibres, like crisp cotton or linen or floaty silks.

Ladies, no stilettos. You’re watching horses on a field and walking on grass. Dress to the conditions. Sun hats are a must. Sunscreen is nonnegotiable.

When it comes to makeup, fresh skin and natural beauty is good. A pretty lip, flushed cheeks and loosely waved hair is ideal.

5 Get the look:

1. Whether you opt for a flowing frock or chic mini, the ultimate accessory is a good hat.

2. Crane Brothers seersucker shorts.

3. Crane Brothers light grey suit.

4. Cailtlin Crisp Florence floral gown.

5. Caitlin Crisp Cindy Lou mini with bow at front or back.

“Polo dressing is quite different to race wear – it’s more relaxed, but no less considered. ”

SARAH MURRAY, FQ EDITOR

Runway glamour

Attention tastemakers – the highly anticipated and fiercely competitive Fashion Quarterly Fashion at the Polo is back. So get those outfits sorted!

FASHION JUDGES

Sarah Murray EDITOR, FASHION QUARTERLY.

Caitlin Crisp FASHION DESIGNER

Robert Niwa CRANE BROTHERS

Holly Estelle EVENT AMBASSADOR

On the day registrations will be taken from 2pm in the Fashion Quarterly Fashion Garden.

The judging will begin at 2.30pm, so be prepared to strut your stuff.

The winners of Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Gentleman and Best Accessory will be announced at 2.55pm in the Fashion Garden.

WHAT THE JUDGES ARE LOOKING FOR:

Sarah Murray – EDITOR, FASHION QUARTERLY

Polo dressing is quite different to race wear – it’s more relaxed, but no less considered. I’ll be looking for outfits that understand that nuance: polished without being overdone, effortless rather than theatrical, and appropriate for the setting while still feeling personal and confident.

Caitlin Crisp – FASHION DESIGNER

I'll be looking for effortless elegance, originality and confident style that truly embodies the spirit of the day.

Robert Niwa – CRANE BROTHERS

I’m looking for a polished, sophisticated look this year. With a touch of elegance

Holly Estelle – EVENT AMBASSADOR

I look for outfits that feel polished but still have personality. Great styling is important, but for me it’s when someone adds their own twist, a bold colour, an unexpected accessory, or styling that feels genuinely them. Looks that feel confident without trying too hard and have a sense of fun, while still nodding to the classic, relaxed elegance that polo is known for. If I pause, smile, and want a second look, that’s usually a very good sign.

Prizes

BEST DRESSED LADY

 One year’s subscription to Fashion Quarterly magazine

 A $1000 Caitlin Crisp voucher

 One night at the Beautiful DoubleTree by Hilton Auckland Karaka

 A $150 Dark Hampton voucher

 A Coast New Zealand picnic bag

 A magnum of Chateau d'Esclans

Whispering Angel

BEST DRESSED GENTLEMAN

 One year’s subscription to Fashion Quarterly magazine

 A $1000 Crane Brothers gift voucher

 A Coast New Zealand picnic bag

 A magnum of Chateau d'Esclans

Whispering Angel

BEST ACCESSORY

 One year’s subscription to Fashion Quarterly magazine

 A $500 Dark Hampton Voucher

 A Coast New Zealand picnic bag

 A magnum of Chateau d’Esclans

Whispering Angel

In the Saddle

Meet the 2026 teams vying for ultimate glory at the Milford NZ Polo Open.

BRINKS

Matt van den Brink 1

Steve van den Brink 1

Will Harper 5

Juan Gris Zavaleta 7

Brothers Matt and Steve van den Brink are no strangers to Milford NZ Open finals, with Matt claiming victory in 2024 and Steve finishing runner-up last year. For 2026, they are bolstered by two international standouts - the impressive Argentine Juan Gris Zavaleta and leading English representative Will Harper. Backed by the exceptional Brinks stable of ponies and a formidable mix of global talent, this team enters the tournament as genuine contenders to lift the trophy.

STANDING ROCK

Steve Urqhart 0 Pier Müller 3

Jimbo Fewster 5

JP Clarkin 6

Another team with serious international firepower is inaugural competitors, Standing Rock. Australian Steve Urqhart has flown his ponies over the ditch to team up with Swiss superstar Pier Müller, England representative Jimbo Fewster and the NZ team captain and multiple Open winner JP Clarkin. A formidable blend of skill and experience makes this team a standout contender.

Elworthy-Jones

CONMARA ESTATE

EXPERIECO

Edward Elworthy Jones 3

George Cronin 3

Henry Jones 4

Dean Fullerton 4

Another set of brothers vying for the trophy are Clevedon locals Henry Jones and Edward ElworthyJones. For this tournament, they are teaming up with fellow Hololio club mate George Cronin and Mystery Creeks’ own Dean ‘Weka’ Fullerton. This talented side promises to wow crowds with their stunning horsepower and silky skills on the field as well as the dance floor afterwards – maybe with the ultimate silverware in hand.

Emma Semenoff 0

Jake Shaw 3

Glenn Sheriff 5

Thomas Hunt 6

Following her husband’s victory in 2025, Emma Semenoff fields a formidable line-up featuring 2025 Open winners and NZ representatives Glenn Sheriff and Thomas Hunt, alongside emerging South African talent Jake Shaw, as they look to keep the trophy firmly in the family cabinet for another year. Having previously claimed the Women’s Open, this powerful blend of proven ability and experience gives Emma an excellent chance of also securing the NZ Open crown.

The numbers after the names indicateplayershandicap

Ahead of the GAME

The Standing Rock Fair Play Award pioneers the highest values of sportsmanship, respect and equine welfare in polo throughout New Zealand and around the world.

Standing Rock Polo Team’s founder and patron, Philipp Müller, has been hooked on the game ever since his first polo lesson. But what started as a passion for the sport has become a powerful driving force spearheading positive change in the world of polo and beyond.

From advocating sportsmanship and horse welfare by introducing the Standing Rock Fair Play Award to polo’s leading governing bodies around the world, to championing charity with the launch of the philanthropic Standing Rock Foundation, everything Standing Rock does is guided by the beliefs of Native American tribes and the Seven Lakota Values – enduring principles of generosity, respect, kinship, compassion, fortitude, wisdom and spirituality.

The team is named after the Standing Rock Reservation, home of the Sioux Tribe, which straddles the border between North and South Dakota, and is where legendary leader Sitting Bull – a symbol of dignity and resistance – was tragically shot.

No stranger to high-risk and adrenalinefuelled sports, Philipp grew up riding horses and was a member of the Swiss National Bob Skeleton Team in his twenties. But what attracted him to polo was not only that it requires speed, power, incredible skill and a connection with horses, but that it is a sport for gentlemen (and women), which he believes should be played with graciousness and respect.

After observing a considerate gesture at Guards Polo Club when one player dropped his mallet and an opposing player picked it up, Philipp established the Fair Play Award to reward and recognise whole teams demonstrating sportsmanship, conduct and respect toward umpires, horse welfare and discipline on and off the field. Now in only its second year since inception, there are already four Standing Rock Fair Play Awards presented around the world, in England, France, New Zealand and Australia, and umpires have acknowledged that it is refreshing to be able to reward good conduct and sportsmanship, rather than penalising poor behaviour.

The overall reaction has been that fair play and sportsmanship make polo much more enjoyable and fun for everyone, including spectators. trophy each year. Umpire Andrew Williams says: “Giving players points for sportsmanship, horsemanship and conduct shifts the focus to encourage and celebrate the good moments, fostering a more positive and supportive atmosphere on the field.”

Discover more at standing-rock.com / @standingrock.poloteam

Programme

MILFORD NZ POLO OPEN FINALS SUNDAY

15 FEBRUARY, 2026

Auckland Polo Club Fisher Field, 102 Clevedon-Kawakawa Road, Clevedon

11.00AM Gates open

11.30AM The Fisher Challenge Polo Game

12.30PM Stomping of the Divots

12.45PM Open Handicap Final

2.15PM Stomping of the Divots

2.30PM

FQ Fashion at the Polo

3.00PM Horse versus Horsepower Race

3.15PM Parade of Champions

3.30PM Milford New Zealand Polo Open 2026 Final

4.15PM Stomping of the Divots

5.15PM Presentation on Clubhouse Lawn

2.55PM Ladies & Gentlemen’s Dashs

5.30PM The Official Edge Polo Afterparty – Chukka

Event Map

Taxis depart to Britomart

The Milford NZ Polo Open is strictly a no-BYO event. A day in the country, watching great polo goes hand-in-hand with a glass of Champagne or a beer which is all available at the venue. If you think you’ll be indulging and staying on for the after-party, please consider pre-booking a dial-a-driver, taxi or Uber. Entry is by wristband only, received at the gate on sighting your electronic ticket. To find out more, visit: nzpoloopen.com

GENERAL ADMISSION –CHUKKA LAWN & POLO HILL

MAIN GA BAR - CHUKKA LAWN

STONELEIGH PONY LINES

VIP BOOTPARKS AND PUBLIC

BOOTPARKS

PRIVATE HOSTING

MILFORD GUESTS

POLO MEMBER BOOTPARKS

POLO TEAMS

POLO VILLAGE Moodyz

&

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Ticket Options

POLO HILL & CHUKKA LAWN

Hill from $50 per person

(General admission)

Bring your own picnic, chairs and sun umbrella and find a spot on the famous Polo Hill which looks out over all the action. If you prefer to get a bit closer, nab a spot at the Chukka Lawn on the centre line. This is the hub of all the action throughout the day with the convenience of the Chukka Bar on hand to keep you refreshed. The surrounding Polo Village offers delicious food truck cuisine. This is the perfect option for small groups and individuals. Ticket prices: pre-order from $50; on the gate $65; child (under 15) $25; child (under 5) free.

Our Partners

THE STONELEIGH VIP PONY LINES

From $95 per person (R18)

This vibrant, private picketed lawn area is where you can kick back and enjoy the day. With its own private Stoneleigh Pony Bar, a complimentary Stoneleigh Wine Spritz on arrival and a selection of tasty snacks created by Little Wolf, it’s situated on the centre line, so you are front and centre for all the action. From here, you can head to The Chukka Bar for The Edge Official After Party (R18) to dance the night away.

BOOT PARK

From $740 + gst (Make it your own)

For those who prefer their own zone, the Boot Park is ideal. You will have your own 3 metres of field-side space to use as you choose along with 20 tickets. Be warned, this popular option sells out every year. Drinks can be purchased from any of the onsite bars.

VIP BOOT PARK

From $1500 + gst (A little bit from us and a little bit from you)

If you're keen to cater yourself but don't fancy lugging your gazebo out to the polo, this is the ideal way to spend the day. The VIP

Boot Park is field side, with 20 tickets, a 3sqm marquee and base furnishings. Bring your own picnic and purchase drinks from one of the many bars onsite.

PRIVATE HOSTING PACKAGES

The Milford NZ Polo Open is the perfect setting to entertain your friends and clients for the ultimate polo experience. Choose from the Gold, Silver or Bronze hospitality marquee options. These all include a fieldside furnished marquee, a private picket fenced lawn and a personal steward to serve your guests fabulous cuisine and beverages. For Boot Park and Personalised packages, phone Lucy: 021 069 5960 or email Openmanager@aucklandpolo.co.nz

 All adult tickets include entry to The Edge Official After Party (R18).

 Use the ‘Magazine10’ discount code for 10% off all individual tickets.

 Please note this event is strictly no BYO on any type of beverages.

NZ Polo Open 2026 is very proud to be partnered with the following brands and companies