Following a review of the upcoming synthetic track programme, the Awapuni synthetic meeting scheduled for Sunday 7 June has been removed from the racing calendar. 

The change has been approved by the TAB NZ Dates Committee and reflects the close proximity of the Awapuni meetings on 31 May and 7 June, along with the addition of a six-race meeting at Hawke’s Bay on 21 May.

As part of the revised programme, stakes for all races at the Awapuni meeting on Sunday 31 May have been increased to $25,000, up from $17,000. The exception is the higher rating 1400m race, which will carry a stake of $30,000 as the first qualifying race in a new winter incentive series.

The series will culminate in a $60,000 higher rating 1400m final at Awapuni on Friday 31 July.

Qualifying races will be held at Awapuni on:

• 31 May ($30,000)
• 21 June ($25,000)
• 3 July ($25,000)
• 17 July ($25,000)

There will be one qualifying race at each Awapuni meeting leading into the final.

Horses that compete in the qualifying races will accrue points towards eligibility for the final on the following basis:

• 1st: 5 points
• 2nd: 3 points
• 3rd: 2 points
• All starters: 1 point

To be eligible for the final, horses must have started in at least one qualifying race. The field for the 31 July final will be selected first on points accrued, and then by rating order if required.