2027 Helmet Tagging Changes: Is Your Helmet 2027 Ready?
From 1 January 2027, ESNZ and NZ Pony Club are tightening the rules on which helmets can be tagged. If you ride at competitions, rallies, practice days or any other ESNZ or Pony Club activity, your helmet needs to meet the new standards. Here's what's changing and how to check yours.
Who needs a tagged helmet?
If you ride at any ESNZ or NZ Pony Club event or activity, including those run by affiliated clubs and branches, you need a yellow tagged helmet. The tag shows your helmet has been checked by an approved tagger and meets the standards.
If you only ride at home or recreationally, your helmet doesn't need a tag. But it's still important to check it still meets current safety standards. A helmet is only worth wearing if it will actually do its job when you need it.
If you already have a yellow tagged helmet, NZ Pony Club says helmets already tagged can still be worn. But from 1 January 2027 officials can spot check helmets at events, so it will pay to check yours now.
What's changing
The yellow helmet tag isn't changing. What's changing is which helmets can get one.
Helmets certified only to these older standards will no longer be accepted for new tagging:
- ARB HS 2012
- ASTM F1163 (2004a, 2013 or 2015)
- AS/NZS 3838 (2006)
- VG1
The key word is only. A helmet that carries one of these plus one of the approved standards below is still fine.
Approved helmet standards from 1 January 2027
To be tagged, a helmet must meet at least one of these, with the matching quality mark:
All four are approved for all activities.
Spot checks at events
From 1 January 2027, ESNZ officials can spot check helmets at events. If yours is non-compliant, you may be asked to replace it before you compete. Nobody wants that on show day.
How to check your helmet
- Look at the label inside the helmet, usually under the liner or harness.
- Find the standard listed (for example PAS 015:2011).
- Check for the matching safety mark: a Kitemark, IC mark, Snell sticker or SEI mark.
- Compare it to the table above.
Don't rely on the brand's website alone. Some list only one standard when the helmet actually carries more. The label inside is what counts.
If your helmet only shows VG1, ARB HS 2012, AS/NZS 3838 (2006) or an older ASTM F1163, it won't be accepted for new tagging from 2027.
Future-proof your ride with a 2027 compliant helmet
If you're buying a helmet now, buy one that's 2027 ready. Many retailers are still selling to current standards. That's fine for today, but you could be replacing it in a few months.
At NZ Tack we're labelling helmets in our range that meet the 2027 standards as 2027 Ready, so you can see at a glance which ones will be accepted for tagging next year.
Shop 2027 Ready helmets
Not sure about a helmet you already own? Send us a photo of the label and we'll help you check it.
Do you need to replace your helmet?
Even a compliant helmet doesn't last forever. ESNZ recommends replacing your helmet:
- After any impact, like a fall where you hit your head or the helmet being dropped, even if you can't see damage
- Every five years if you haven't had a fall
- Every year or two if you ride every day
- If it feels too loose or too tight, or the harness has gone loose
Check your helmet over
Give your helmet a quick once-over every now and then:
- Shell: look for cracks, dents, bumps, chips or deep scratches. A brittle feel or sun-faded look is a warning sign too.
- Liner and foam: check for a flattened liner, fraying, mould or a smell that won't shift.
- Harness and buckle: look for frayed straps or loose stitching, and make sure the buckle clips and holds.
- Fit: it should feel snug. If it wobbles, tips forward or needs constant adjusting, it's time for a new one.
- Age: find the manufacture date inside. Over five years old means it's due for replacement.
To help it last, keep it out of direct sunlight and let it dry naturally if it gets wet. Always follow the care instructions from your helmet's brand.
If your helmet is due for replacement anyway, make your next one 2027 ready.
Future-proof your ride with a 2027 compliant helmet
If you're buying a helmet now, buy one that's 2027 ready. Many retailers are still selling to current standards. That's fine for today, but you could be replacing it in a few months.
At NZ Tack we're labelling helmets in our range that meet the 2027 standards as 2027 Ready, so you can see at a glance which ones will be accepted for tagging next year.
Shop 2027 Ready helmets
Not sure about a helmet you already own? Send us a photo of the label and we'll help you check it.
Source: ESNZ and NZPCA, "Upcoming Changes to Helmet Standards for ESNZ and NZPCA Riders", 1 December 2025. Further FAQs are available on the ESNZ and NZPCA websites.
Who needs a tagged helmet and replacement guidance: ESNZ Helmet Tagging and NZPCA Helmet Standards and Tagging.
