Clydesdale history up for auction

The Clydesdales are staying, but some of their gear goes up for auction on April 8 when Pirongia Clydesdales holds a reduction sale of horse drawn wagons, harness and related items.

Pirongia Clydesdales owners, Nick and Jill van der Sande, say the sale decision has not been made lightly and is certainly not an easy one for the family. While the business will be operating at a smaller scale in future, the van der Sandes assure people that it’s not the end of the famous Clydesdales, which will still be available to visit at their Pirongia stables and function centre.

 Nick van der Sande driving his Clydesdales and the popular American show wagon at a Christmas event.

“Many have been concerned the sale marks the end of the business” Jill says. “That’s not the case. It’s simply a sale to reduce the amount of gear and horse drawn vehicles we have on site, as we plan to reduce the amount of travel we do with the Clydesdale team.”

Nick and Jill have owned their business at Pirongia in the Waikato since 1999, and regularly travel the country attending weddings and public events with their Clydesdales. Prior to that, the couple trained and managed the country’s famous DB Draught Clydesdales from its outset in 1986. Their association with Clydesdale horses spans more than 40 years.

“Most people don’t realise the work involved in running a public team of heavy horses at such a high level” Jill adds. “While our time with the Clydesdales has provided some fantastic memories and experiences over the years, we look forward to a slightly quieter life from here.”

At 10.30am on April 8 a high quality selection of heavy and light horse wagons, carriages and gigs will go under the hammer at the Clydesdales’ Pirongia base. The catalogue includes working collars, harnesses and various horse drawn items. Special interest items include one of the original DB Clydesdales USA imported show wagons, an American Conestoga wagon and harness from the original DB team. No Clydesdale horses will be offered for sale.

Dubbed as a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’, the Pirongia Clydesdales sale offers a chance for keen enthusiasts and collectors to acquire unique pieces not found anywhere else this side of the world. The van der Sandes promise an enjoyable family day out with buffet breakfast, coffee and refreshments being available on-site at The Coach House Country Café.


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