NZ-South Africa equine air route returns after 12 years

NZB Airfreight has completed its first flight of thoroughbreds to South Africa since 2014, with 15 horses arriving safely in Johannesburg last week.

NZB Airfreight consultant Greg Northcott has been involved in efforts to re-establish the South African route, which was previously a regular destination.

“There has been a lot of work, time and communication between both countries over the last 18 months to get this flight off the ground,” Northcott said.

“We were delighted to get this route back up and running, with thanks to Craig Ramsay who we have been working alongside to ensure the safe delivery of these horses.

“The first load has arrived safely and happy. It’s a long haul but our grooms update us frequently with all reports that this bunch of horses were very content passengers.”

Expatriate South African agent Ramsay, who lives in New Zealand, has been active at the yearling sales over the past two years acting for Owen Heffer, the owner of South African wagering company Hollywoodbets.

Heffer has invested tens of millions into the thoroughbred industry, including acquiring Australasian-bred yearlings to race in his home country.

With the New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale scheduled for November 2026 at Karaka, Northcott said the renewed airfreight route could give South African buyers greater confidence to participate in the New Zealand market.

“It is another market now open for New Zealand breeders and producers, we see this as further benefit to sellers and buyers now that the transport and protocol issues have been solved,” Northcott said.