New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has welcomed the release of the final racing calendar for the 2025–26 season, which features an increase in overall racemeetings, a strengthened Sunday schedule and strategic adjustments to enhance wagering opportunities in both New Zealand and Australia.
A total of 308 Thoroughbred racemeetings are scheduled for the 2025–26 season, eight more than the current season, reflecting NZTR’s commitment to growing engagement opportunities while balancing statutory obligations and wagering goals.
Among the most significant shifts is a continued expansion of Sunday racing, with Thoroughbred meetings increasing from 64 this season to 68 next season and 18 Sundays featuring dual Thoroughbred meetings (up from 14).
The calendar also signals a sharp lift in Friday meetings, increasing from 33 to 49 Thoroughbred racedays, with a modest reduction in Thursday fixtures to accommodate the shift.
“We are expecting these adjustments to drive improved wagering performance and greater returns for our code,” said NZTR CEO Matt Ballesty. “The increase in meetings shows our commitment to trying new approaches that we believe will deliver real benefits for the wider industry.”
In line with efforts to increase visibility in the Australian wagering market, NZTR, Entain and TAB NZ have worked collaboratively to identify race timings that will deliver higher exposure and returns across both countries.
“The five-year minimum funding guarantee from Entain gives us a unique opportunity to test what delivers the best results, and this season’s calendar has been shaped with that in mind,” said Ballesty.
“It’s designed to support both local participants and international opportunities, with a clear focus on maximising wagering, increasing returns to the code and building long-term sustainability.”
The Christmas/New Year racing schedule will follow a similar pattern to recent seasons, incorporating enhancements on the previous year, and reflecting alignment to the Strategic Summer Calendar - a cornerstone of New Zealand’s major summer raceday period.
“We’re grateful to our Clubs and industry stakeholders for their constructive engagement throughout the consultation process,” said Ballesty.
“We look forward to the period ahead and extend our best wishes to all Clubs, participants and stakeholders for a successful and progressive 2025–26 racing season,” he said.
The calendar, developed in consultation with Clubs, Recognised Industry Organisations, TAB NZ and Entain, has been approved by the TAB NZ Dates Committee in accordance with the Racing Industry Act 2020.