New Zealand Federation of Sled Dog Sports - New Zealand 
New Zealand Federation of Sled Dog Sports
The NZFSS was formed in 1993, with rules based on the International Sled Dog Racing Association (IRSDA) rules, and amended for local temperatures, conditions and terrain. The development of the rules was at times contentious, as clubs wanted to cling to their local variants, but finally all agreed that the International Rules should be the basis of our New Zealand Rules, and they should only be amended for a very good reason. The wearing of safety helmets for single dog races was one of the more vigorously contested introduced rules! Many mushers are "free spirits" and they resented the introduction of a NZ rule that they saw as an infringement of their liberty.
Throughout 1993 to 1995 the Federation felt it's way, and gained more members from the sled dog clubs who had initially doubted the effectiveness of a national body. Now, in 2000, there are 11 member clubs, covering the whole country from Auckland to Invercargill (see contacts page), all operating on a common set of rules, with registered Race Marshall's ensuring the rules are interpreted the same no matter where you race.
The first Yearbook was introduced in 1994. The Weight Pull Awards started in 1994, but it was 1997 before members could agree on a Racing Awards programe. We joined the International Federation of Sleddog Sports (IFSS) as full voting members in 1995, and the NZFSS was officially recognised by the NZ Kennel Club in 1998.
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