Medic Richard and Ann Browne at the Leamington polo recently.
Waipā duo John Paul Clarkin and Dean Fullerton will once again don the New Zealand jersey on home soil at Mystery Creek Polo Club this week.
The team of George Cronin, Ed Elworthy Jones, Jay Wilson and Liam Parrott pose for a photo in Leamington. Photo: Michael Jeans
Kaipaki-based Clarkin and Ngāhinapōuri resident Fullerton, will take part in the premier day of top-level polo as they face a Rest of the World team, showcasing high-goal competition.
Last year, the Kiwis hosted England in a very close encounter. They will have a point to prove after being pipped.
The 2026 international polo day will also see the New Zealand women’s team take on an invitational South African ladies’ side.
This event has become an annual fixture on the calendar.
Dean Fullerton donning the New Zealand polo jersey races up the pitch in the 2025 clash against England. Photo: Simon Watts – bwmedianz Zealand.
Clarkin, 47, is one of New Zealand’s leading professional polo players and a long-time figure in the Waikato and New Zealand polo scene. Fullerton, 27, also has international experience overseas.
Founded by cousins Clarkin and Simon Keyte, the Mystery Creek club has grown steadily into a small, supportive community of around 15 players.
Will Seavill, 15, is one of those members also contributing to the national jersey.
The Hamilton Boys’ High School student has been selected for the New Zealand Schools Polo team travelling to Wellington, Florida in March.
The team of John Paul Clarkin, Indi Bennetto, Matt Van Den Brink and Steve Van Den Brink with their supporters at Leamington. Photo: Michael Jeans
Medic Richard and Ann Browne at the Leamington polo recently. Photo: Michael Jeans
