New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, Harness Racing New Zealand, with the support of TAB NZ, are pleased to share the Terms of Reference and provide an update on the engagement process that will guide the development of a future-focused masterplan for New Zealand’s equine racing infrastructure.
As previously communicated, Project Stamina aims to produce a unified masterplan for racing and training venues nationwide. It will provide a clear, long-term view of where and how the industry should invest across both the Harness and Thoroughbred codes. In doing so, it links this investment to reliable tracks, a consistent racing product, stronger wagering performance, and revenue generation to reinvest back into the sport.
Project Stamina will create a sustainable and financially robust racing sector. We are committed to collaborative, sector-wide engagement, and the purpose of this update is to keep you informed about how this process will unfold.
RCP have been appointed as independent consultants, and the Terms of Reference for the process are linked here.
Overview of the Engagement Process
The engagement will take place in two key stages and follows a best-practice planning approach to ensure transparency, consistency, and equitable input across all levels of the industry:
- Discover, Compile and Analyse (through to Mid-February 2026):
Structured engagement has commenced with representatives of HRNZ, NZTR and TAB NZ to confirm key issues and opportunities. Additional subject matter experts may be engaged if specific knowledge gaps are identified. Insights from this stage will help shape masterplan options. - Evaluate and Report (by late May 2026):
Feedback will be sought from across the NZ Racing Industry, including Racing Clubs and Recognised Industry Organisations, through online surveys, workshops, and meetings (online or in-person). The focus will be on gathering views about the benefits of a preferred masterplan option and the actions required to achieve it. Industry feedback received will be used to approve the masterplan by the governing bodies of the two racing codes.
Regular updates will be provided at every stage to ensure transparency and reinforce stakeholder confidence that their input is being thoughtfully considered.
Project Stamina intends to embrace change, but not for change’s sake. With ageing infrastructure, we need to strategically invest in the venues which provide the best opportunity to future-proof the racing industry for long-term sustainable success. This process begins with complete transparency - no decisions have been made, and industry input will play a central role in shaping the preferred approach.
Next Steps
This process is guided by a commitment to transparency and collaboration. Keeping you informed is a key part of our approach, and regular updates will be provided to ensure stakeholders remain abreast of considerations.
Initial updates will be shared via email and existing channels (such as newsletters). More detailed information about the timing and opportunities for engagement will be available in the New Year, but current expectations are for a May 2026 release of the report. For now, we wanted to provide this overview so you know what to expect and how the process will progress. A monitored inbox (stamina@tabnz.org) has been set up for industry participants to be able to correspond with the process and we invite questions and feedback directly.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to New Zealand racing. Your participation is both crucial and encouraged. Together, we can build a vibrant and sustainable future for our industry.