Dr Tony Parsons recognised for services to equestrian sports

The NZ Horse Ambulance Trust extends warm congratulations to board member Dr Tony Parsons, who Equestrian Sports NZ recognised as an honorary life member at the recent 75th Anniversary Celebrations in Wellington.

Dr Tony Parsons in his role as an FEI official vet

Whilst Tony was overseas travelling with his wife Lynne at the time, his significant contribution to equine welfare was acknowledged at the gala dinner.

“Dr Tony Parsons has participated in competitions worldwide in his role as an FEI official veterinarian. As one of 27 FEI vets in New Zealand, Tony is the first to achieve Level 4 certification in Endurance while also being certified at Level 3 in Jumping, Dressage and Eventing. Based in Taupō, he had to pass online examinations before passing a three-day course in Lausanne, Switzerland.  

Tony’s journey marks the culmination of a long-standing history of veterinary work, which began in the late 1980s. Coming from a sheep and cattle farm in Wairarapa, Tony began his career in the Tokoroa District, where he attended to horses under the guidance of Dr Wallie Niederer. He moved to Taupō in 1997 and has been an official vet for ESNZ since 1994. He retired from his practice in 2020, but his official ‘sideline’ has continued. Tony’s time over the years has been equally split between Eventing and Endurance, and he also supports Dressage and Jumping events. However, Endurance does seem to be his favourite discipline.

Tony continues to be the ESNZ Vet General on the ESNZ Technical Committee, advising all disciplines on Veterinary and Horse Welfare.”