NZTR has provided $75,000 from the Welfare Levy Reserve to date, with a further $30,000 to $50,000 in eligible costs anticipated during the remainder of September. This contribution has helped meet the cost of approved veterinary surveillance, diagnostic and clearance testing during the strangles outbreak.

Introduced on 27 July 2026 in consultation with the Racing Integrity Board (RIB), the framework has provided practical financial support to affected participants while contributing to the industry’s wider disease management response.

With most testing across affected properties now nearing completion, the framework has achieved its purpose.

Eligible testing undertaken up to and including 30 September 2026 will continue to be considered under the framework’s existing eligibility, approval and payment requirements. Testing undertaken from 1 October 2026 will not be eligible for funding.

Veterinary practices and owners are asked to submit all outstanding eligible invoices promptly and in accordance with the payment process set out in the framework.

NZTR and the RIB acknowledges the cooperation of affected owners, trainers and veterinary practices throughout the response. The collective efforts of everyone involved have supported effective disease management and helped affected horses and properties progress through the testing and clearance process.

Enquiries

Testing and case management: vet@rib.org.nz

Thoroughbred Welfare: sam.fursdon@nztr.co.nz

Payment enquiries: accounts@nztr.co.nz

For more information, resources and directives please visit the NZTR Strangles Hub: Strangles - NZTR