New Zealand and Island Spaniel Results
2025 NZ Spaniel Natural Game winner FW & FTW Gunner of Bullockcreek (ESS owner/handler Peter O'Neill)This win titled the dog to:NTL FCH & FTW Gunner of Bullockcreek
Overview
Spaniel Field Trials were first conducted in New Zealand in 1935. The early “simulated” trials involved firing blank shots over homing pigeons released from cages to mimic the flushing of game birds, or firing at cold, dead game to test a dog’s retrieving ability. They also included a water retrieve event.
By 1986, the sport celebrated its 50th jubilee with 30 entries—29 English Springer Spaniels and just one Cocker Spaniel.
Since that milestone, simulated spaniel trials have steadily declined in popularity, with only a handful held each year and attracting low participation. In their place, Spaniel Natural Game Trials have risen to prominence. While a small number of competitors take part in both formats, the majority now focus exclusively on Spaniel Natural Game Trials. The first Spaniel Natural Game New Zealand Championship Trial was held in 2025 at Twizel.
By 1986, the sport celebrated its 50th jubilee with 30 entries—29 English Springer Spaniels and just one Cocker Spaniel.
Since that milestone, simulated spaniel trials have steadily declined in popularity, with only a handful held each year and attracting low participation. In their place, Spaniel Natural Game Trials have risen to prominence. While a small number of competitors take part in both formats, the majority now focus exclusively on Spaniel Natural Game Trials. The first Spaniel Natural Game New Zealand Championship Trial was held in 2025 at Twizel.
Trophies
Winners of Island and NZ Championship trials are awarded Perpetual trophies.A miniature trophy is also given for the NZ winner, along with the prefix title NTL.
- New Zealand Spaniel Championship Perpetual Challenge Cup Donated 1941 by Clubs and Supporters (1st recorded winner on cup 1941)
- North Island Spaniel Championship Donated 1968 by Thorby Kennels (1st recorded winner on cup 1968)
- South Island Spaniel Championship Donated 1976 by Mr. & Mrs. M.P. Leathem (1st recorded winner on cup 1976)