NZEVA - New Zealand Equine Veterinary Association: Role, Membership & Recognition

The New Zealand Equine Veterinary Association (NZEVA), officially known as the Equine Veterinarians Branch of the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), represents the professional community of equine veterinarians across New Zealand.

With more than 270 members from Whangarei in the north to Invercargill in the south, NZEVA plays a central role in supporting equine vets, advancing horse health and welfare, and promoting excellence in veterinary practice nationwide.

Unlike some associations that stand entirely alone, NZEVA operates as a special interest branch (SIB) within the NZVA, which gives it both independence in equine-specific matters and a strong link to the wider veterinary profession in New Zealand.

A Professional Community for Equine Vets

Membership of NZEVA is open to any veterinarian who belongs to the New Zealand Veterinary Association. By opting into the Equine Veterinarians Branch, practitioners gain access to a dedicated community focused on horses, as well as tailored continuing professional development (CPD), advocacy, and networking opportunities.

The branch is governed by an elected committee – including a President, Secretary, Treasurer, and regional representatives – ensuring that equine veterinarians across New Zealand have a voice in shaping the future of their profession.

What NZEVA Does for Equine Vets

The role of NZEVA goes beyond networking; it is a hub for leadership, education, and advocacy. Among its key activities are:

Continuing Professional Development (CPD): NZEVA organises workshops, courses, and seminars featuring high-calibre speakers. These events are designed to keep equine practitioners up to date with the latest research and clinical practices.
Continuing Education Fund: Members can apply for financial support to attend international training opportunities, ensuring that knowledge gained overseas benefits equine practice back home in New Zealand.
Advocacy: The branch represents equine vets in discussions on welfare, transport, quarantine, and policy affecting horses. Its science-based approach ensures that equine health is protected and advanced in both industry and government forums.
Resources: NZEVA curates equine-specific resources through the NZVA platform, offering members practical tools and clinical updates relevant to daily practice.

Through these initiatives, NZEVA ensures that equine veterinarians in New Zealand have the education, resources, and representation needed to deliver the highest standard of care to horses.

The Brian Goulden Prize

One of NZEVA’s most prestigious contributions to the equine veterinary community is the Brian Goulden Prize. Awarded annually, this prize recognises an outstanding equine veterinarian in New Zealand who has made significant contributions to equine health, welfare, research, or clinical practice.

The prize reflects NZEVA’s commitment to not only supporting its members but also celebrating excellence within the profession. For many equine veterinarians, the Brian Goulden Prize represents one of the highest honours they can receive in New Zealand.

NZEVA’s Place in the Global Equine Veterinary Community

Although based in New Zealand, NZEVA is part of the wider global equine-vet community. It maintains strong links with international associations and collaborates through NZVA’s network to ensure its members have access to worldwide advances in equine medicine.

Like other national associations, NZEVA connects with the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) through the global network of equine organisations. BEVA collaborates with associations worldwide on welfare, policy, and clinical standards. If you are an NZEVA member, you may also be eligible for BEVA Affiliate Membership, giving you discounted access to BEVA journals, webinars, CPD courses, and BEVA Congress rates.

This international collaboration ensures that New Zealand equine vets are not working in isolation but are part of a worldwide effort to improve equine medicine and welfare.

Why NZEVA Matters to Equine Veterinarians

For equine veterinarians in New Zealand, NZEVA provides:

A professional identity within the wider veterinary association.
Access to CPD, resources, and funding tailored to equine practice.
A platform for advocacy and policy engagement at national level.
The chance to connect with international peers through global collaborations.
Recognition of excellence through awards like the Brian Goulden Prize.

This makes NZEVA not only an association but also a vital professional community for every equine veterinarian in New Zealand.

Join Our Community

We already have a strong community of New Zealand equine veterinarians among our subscribers, alongside colleagues from the EVA in Australia, SAEVA in South Africa, and Veterinary Ireland. If you would like to join this network, meet like-minded professionals, and connect with the wider equine veterinary community, now is the perfect time to get involved. Together with NZEVA, you’ll gain access to support, recognition, and a global platform committed to advancing equine medicine.

FAQ’s

What is NZEVA?
The New Zealand Equine Veterinary Association (NZEVA) is the Equine Veterinarians Branch of the NZVA, supporting vets who specialise in horses.

How many members does NZEVA have?
NZEVA has over 270 members spread across New Zealand.

What does NZEVA do?
NZEVA provides CPD, resources, funding, and advocacy for equine veterinarians in New Zealand.What is the Brian Goulden Prize?
An annual award recognising outstanding contributions to equine veterinary medicine in New Zealand.