New Zealand and Australia face off in polo for charity

It was a success off the park, but could the Kiwis beat Australia in their annual polo match in Christchurch on Saturday?

Hundreds turned out for the annual event.

A day at the polo sounds genteel enough, except when it's a Trans-Tasman showdown.

"Any day New Zealand plays Australia it is pretty intense," said NZ Polo Player Jimmy Wood.

"For many of us this is as big as it gets," said Australian Polo Player James Lester.

The Kiwis were keen to right some wrongs after being pipped last year.

"Last year they sneaked away with it, we are adamant for that not to happen again," said Wood.

Players have come from as far afield as Dubai for the international  which is being hosted by the Port Hills Polo Club on the outskirts of Christchurch.

"We don't know them well and the Kiwis have their own horses, so they have a slight advantage," said Lester

As well as the battles on the field, there's a lot of activity off it, with the event raising $100,000.

"We make no bones about it, black and white, we are here to make as much money as we can for Ronald McDonald House," said Ben Turner from the Port Hills Polo Club.

The Australians not so giving on the park, taking out the match 11-8.

But then again it is also about charity and bringing the sport of kings to the people.  

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