How to Build an Arena - Part 3

We continue our step-by-step guide on building an arena.

1. Continue to spread and level all the lime chip with the laser drag scoop.

2. Bring in chosen surface and spread and level.

3. Now for the hardest part, leave arena to settle for a few days before riding.

Once you have completed these steps you should have a fantastic arena on which to pursue your favourite equestrian pastime.

How to Build an Arena - Part 2

In this episode we continue our step-by-step instructions on how to build an arena. By this stage you should have a nicely level and rolled base of rotten rock, on which to put the sub-surface material.

1. Bring in the big rigs to cart and spread lime chip for the sub-surface. A flat, dry,  accessible paddock will greatly facilitate turning the trucks around.

2. Level the lime chip using a laser drag scoop, in preparation for rolling.

Coming soon - the final instalment of How to Build an Arena - stay tuned!

How to Build an Arena - Part 1

This step-by-step guide on how to build an arena is proudly brought to you by Waterford Estate and On-Site Development Solutions Ltd.

Step 1: Select appropriate site and rotary hoe the soil. Bonus points if the arena is handy to the stable block/tack shed.

Step 2: Bring in big machinery.

Step 3: Start digging.

Step 4: Cart topsoil to spare paddock, and dump. Chosen paddock should preferably be out of the way and have poor soil as additional soil will improve it greatly.

 Step 5: Rotary hoe and level the paddock ready for sowing with grass seed.

Step 6: Back to the arena - keep digging.

Step 7: Bring in base material. Approximately 35 truck loads of rotten rock should be a good start.

Step 8: Check levels with laser level.

Step 9: Build up low end with more rock - approximately five more truck loads.

Step 10: Dig soak holes, put in drainage drums and cesspit in lowest corner of arena to catch water run-off.

Step 11: Bring in more base material to even up the rotten rock, and level with laser drag scoop.

Step 12: Roll base with roller to compact.

Step 13: Employ handy hubby to concrete in posts and attach retaining boards.

To be continued...

Stay tuned for next week's episode of the step-by-step guide on How to Build an Arena Part 2. The next episode will feature adding the next base layer of lime chip and the final sand surface.

This program was made with the help of funding from NZ on Air and National Bank of New Zealand. All rights reserved.