The Crusaders have confirmed that their iconic matchday horses will no longer feature at home games in the new stadium, after all options have reportedly been explored.

This decision that has come from stadium management would bring to an end a tradition that has been part of Crusaders rugby since 1996.

For nearly 30 years, the horses have been more than just a pre-game spectacle. Conquest of Paradise ringing out over the loud speakers, those horses running around the field while the crowd stand and cheer, creating long lasting memories for children and adults alike - this is all part of the match day experience and a tradition deeply tied to the identity of the club and its supporters.

But this comes at a time when fans have already seen other changes to the club’s identity, including the loss of the iconic Crusaders logo and of course our stadium.  Now, another long-standing part of match day history is at risk of being lost.

For many supporters, this feels like more than change — it feels like parts of the club’s identity and shared memories being slowly removed.

We understand the realities of modern stadiums and the challenges that come with them. However, traditions like this carry emotional and cultural value that cannot easily be replaced or dismissed.

This petition is calling for the stadium organisers to:

1: Recognise the importance of the horses to the club’s identity

2: Commit to preserving the matchday horses tradition in future

3: Ensure this iconic part of Crusaders rugby is not lost

This is about protecting what makes Crusaders rugby feel like Crusaders rugby — not just a team, but a legacy built over decades.