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There are many examples of large cities with excellent shared use trail systems, bridleways and equestrian parks and a general recognition that New Zealand's obsession with creating roads for vehicle only use is the wrong way to build urban communities.
The following examples show how bridleways, horse parks and multi-use trails are being created for economic, recreation and health benefits to the community. Many are shared trails that include horses, walkers and cyclists (along with other activities) - something that New Zealand(ers) have failed to do.
Urban Bridleways and Equestrian ParksSwedenPhoto: Stockholm
 Link to photo album of Swedish urban bridlepaths (courtesy Doug Hunt)
USAPhoenix, Arizona. USA. Arizona Horse Lovers Park & Reach 11 Recreation AreaPhoenix is a city of about the same size as Auckland (1.5 million people). Reach 11 Recreation Area is a 1500 acre park that is currently being extended to include a major sports complex. The recreation area is approximately 7 miles long and less than 1/2 mile wide. It currently includes an equestrian centre, hiking and riding trails, and wildlife/nature desert areas. The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department provides a variety of programs for people of all ages and ability levels.
Brooklyn, Central Park New YorkRight in the centre of one of the world's largest cities, New York, there are bridlepaths and equestrian recreation areas.
Bay Area Ridge Trail, San FranciscoThe Bay Area Ridge Trail i  The Bay Area Ridge Trail is a work-in-progress for its Council. While it stretches along more than 310 miles of ridge-top terrain, it encircles the Bay Area, and is part of a plan to be extended to a 550-mile outdoor enthusiast’s dream Trail. Their goals may even take them further. The Bay Area Ridge Trail is supported and protected by the nonprofit organization, the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council. Their efforts have made it possible to offer this naturally beautiful and functioning trail for bicycling, horseback riders, hikers and anyone who enjoys a breath of fresh air. The Council promotes the Trail, and has dedicated this land to serve as a natural recreational pathway for the people of San Francisco. 85% of the trail is open to cyclists and equestrians (i.e. the Golden Gate bridge crossing is an area not open to horses) UK Bridlepaths NetworkOf course the United Kingdom has a gre  Bridlepaths have always been shared between horses and walkers; since 1967 cyclists and mobility devices have also been allowed on bridlepaths.
Photo: Urban bridlepath Coventry England. Note the natural surface!
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National and Regional Trail SystemsThe Trans Canadian TrailAn 18,000 kilometre recreational corridor winding its way through every Province and territory, linking 800 communities along its route. When completed, this will be the longest trail of its kind in the world, connecting all regions. The Trail accommodates five core activities: walking, cycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Some sections of the trail also accommodate trail bikes and ATVs. Amongst the reasons given for this immense project are that it is a stimulus for local economies e.g. bed and breakfasts and support services.
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