Message From NZTR's CEO
Welcome to another edition of The Rundown. Over the past few weeks there has been a significant amount of work continuing across the industry as we prepare for the new season and continue planning for the long-term future of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing.
Recently I had the opportunity to spend time in the South Island visiting Clubs and meeting with many of the people who dedicate an enormous amount of time and energy to our industry. I visited Timaru, Oamaru, Wingatui, Waikouaiti and Invercargill and appreciated the time afforded to me by Club leaders, committee members, staff and volunteers across the region.
It was a valuable experience and an important opportunity for me as CEO to better understand the unique challenges and opportunities across the South Island, and the way Clubs and industry participants work together to continue delivering strong outcomes for racing. There is a great deal of passion, pride and commitment within the southern racing community and it was encouraging to see firsthand.
I also spent time in New South Wales last week meeting with the team at Racing NSW. New Zealand and Australia share a close and important racing relationship, with our industry playing a significant role in supporting Australian racing through our breeding sector, horses and people. Maintaining strong connections across both jurisdictions is important, not only to share ideas and learn from one another, but also to ensure we continue working together to strengthen and grow Thoroughbred racing on a global stage.
While these visits have reinforced the many strengths that exist across our industry, they have also highlighted the importance of the work currently underway to ensure racing remains sustainable, competitive and successful for future generations.
A number of important strategic discussions continue across the industry. The NZTR Board met with the TAB NZ Advisory Committee as part of the ongoing work focused on the long-term sustainability and future direction of racing in New Zealand. While there are still many discussions underway, progress is continuing to be made across a range of initiatives designed to strengthen the industry and ensure it is well positioned for the future.
NZTR continues its focus on planning across infrastructure, venue categorisation, funding, technology, welfare and industry capability. Not every decision ahead will be easy, however there is a clear focus on taking a considered and long-term approach that supports a sustainable and successful future for Thoroughbred Racing in New Zealand.
This weekend, three individuals with strong connections to Thoroughbred Racing were recognised in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours. Sir David Ellis was appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Doug Alderslade was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and Auckland businessman and philanthropist Peter Thompson was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Sir David and Doug have both made significant contributions to the success and development of New Zealand racing over many decades and are deserving recipients of this recognition. Peter has also been a long-standing supporter of Thoroughbred racing, including more than a decade of partnership with Auckland Thoroughbred Racing and sponsorship of some of Auckland’s most iconic racedays.
On behalf of NZTR, congratulations to all three recipients on this well-deserved recognition of their contribution to racing, sport and the wider New Zealand community.
Finally, I want to acknowledge the retirement of Butch Castles and thank him for the enormous contribution he has made to Waikato and New Zealand racing over many years. Butch has been a passionate advocate for the industry and a strong supporter of the people within it. His leadership, experience and commitment to racing have earned widespread respect across the sport and we wish him all the very best for the future.
Thank you again to everyone across the industry for your continued contribution and support as we head towards the new season.
Yours in racing,
Matt Ballesty
Chief Executive Officer
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing
Racing Leaders Recognised in King's Birthday Honours
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing is proud to celebrate three individuals with strong connections to the thoroughbred racing industry whose contributions have been recognised in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours.
Te Akau Racing founder Sir David Ellis was appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, while Auckland Thoroughbred Racing Chairman Doug Alderslade was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, recognising their decades of service, leadership and commitment to New Zealand racing. Also recognised was long-time racing supporter Peter Thompson, who was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contribution to philanthropy, sport and the community.
Sir David Ellis KNZM
Te Akau Racing founder and principal David Ellis has been appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Thoroughbred Racing and his philanthropy benefiting numerous organisations.
For more than four decades, Sir David has been one of the most influential figures in New Zealand racing, and together with Lady Karyn Fenton-Ellis built Te Akau Racing into one of the most successful racing operations in the country while making an enormous contribution to the wider thoroughbred industry.
Sir David has dedicated his life to New Zealand thoroughbred racing, building a legacy that has influenced every corner of the industry. Through Te Akau Racing, he has created opportunities for thousands of owners, trainers, jockeys, breeders and industry participants while helping elevate the reputation of New Zealand thoroughbred racing on the international stage.
His contribution extends well beyond race results and premierships. Sir David has been a passionate advocate for New Zealand breeding, a mentor to generations of racing professionals, and a significant supporter of community and charitable initiatives.
Sir David Ellis. Photo: Nicole Troost Photography
Doug Alderslade ONZM
Auckland Thoroughbred Racing Chairman Doug Alderslade has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the racing industry.
A member of the Auckland Racing Club board since 2003 and Chairman since 2017, Doug has played a pivotal role in some of the most significant developments in New Zealand racing.
Under his leadership, Ellerslie has undergone a major transformation, including the installation of the StrathAyr track, construction of world-class stabling facilities, and the development of a long-term financial platform designed to support the future of racing in the region. He was also instrumental in the formation of Auckland Thoroughbred Racing through the amalgamation of the Auckland Racing Club and Counties Racing Club in 2021.
Doug's involvement in racing spans more than five decades as an administrator, owner, breeder and industry leader. His recognition reflects a sustained commitment to ensuring the sport remains relevant, financially sustainable and positioned for future success.
Doug Alderslade ONZM. Photo: Supplied
Peter Thompson CNZM
Auckland businessman and philanthropist Peter Thompson was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to philanthropy and rugby.
As Managing Director of Barfoot & Thompson, Peter has overseen significant support for community, sporting and charitable initiatives across New Zealand. He also has a longstanding connection to Thoroughbred racing through Barfoot & Thompson’s partnership with Auckland Thoroughbred Racing, including sponsorship of some of Auckland’s premier racing events such as Auckland Cup Week and Auckland Cup Day.
His contribution to New Zealand sport, philanthropy and the wider community has had a lasting impact and this national recognition is well deserved.
Peter Thompson CNZM (right). Photo: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing
2026/27 Racing Calendar Released
The 2026/27 Thoroughbred Racing Calendar has now been confirmed, with 310 race meetings scheduled across New Zealand for the new season.
The calendar was developed by the TAB NZ Dates Committee following consultation with Clubs, recognised industry organisations and key industry stakeholders, alongside ongoing engagement with TAB NZ and Entain.
Next season will include an increase in Saturday racing, with three additional Saturday meetings scheduled, while Sunday meetings have been reduced from 68 to 63. The changes are designed to help strengthen wagering performance, improve programming outcomes and better align racing opportunities across the season.
Planning the national racing calendar is a balancing act between maximising wagering performance, supporting participation and ensuring racing continues to deliver strong outcomes for Clubs, participants and racing communities throughout the country.
Read More
New Venue Categorisation Framework Introduced for 2026/27 Season
Beginning 1 August, alongside the start of the 2026/27 racing season, NZTR will introduce a new national venue categorisation framework for all active Thoroughbred racing venues across New Zealand.
Under the framework, venues will be categorised as Metropolitan, Provincial or Community, helping create a more nationally consistent approach to defining the role each venue plays within the racing industry.
The framework will help guide future decisions around race programming, stakes levels, club funding, infrastructure investment and wider industry planning. The full venue categorisation list and further information can be viewed below.
New Zealand Thoroughbred Welfare and Ethics Advisory Group Established
Following the recent launch of the Together for the Thoroughbred Welfare Strategy, the New Zealand Thoroughbred Welfare and Ethics Advisory Group has been established to provide independent expertise, guidance and oversight on welfare-related matters across the industry.
The Advisory Group is an important part of the implementation of the strategy and reflects NZTR’s commitment to embedding evidence-based decision making, transparency and continuous improvement into the industry’s welfare approach.
Chaired by Professor Natalie Waran, the group brings together respected leaders from the veterinary, legal and academic sectors, alongside individuals with extensive Thoroughbred industry knowledge and experience.
Working alongside NZTR, the Advisory Group will help guide ongoing welfare initiatives and support regular review of welfare outcomes across breeding, racing and life after racing. The establishment of the group also recognises that welfare standards, scientific understanding and community expectations will continue to evolve over time.
The Advisory Group will provide independent advice and perspectives as the industry continues implementing the Together for the Thoroughbred strategy, which is grounded in the New Zealand-developed Five Domains Model and takes a science-based, horse-centred approach to welfare.
The strategy outlines a programme of work focused on enhanced traceability, safer racing and training, stronger retraining and rehoming pathways, responsible breeding and ownership, and improved education and communication across the industry.
Photo: Nicole Troost Photography
Welfare Team Releases Third Quarter 1% Report
NZTR's Welfare Team has released the Quarter 3 1% Welfare Levy Spend Report for the 2025/26 season, providing an overview of how levy funds are being invested to support Thoroughbreds throughout their racing careers and beyond.
The report highlights investment across retraining and rehoming programmes, race-day safety services, welfare assistance, research, education initiatives and life-after-racing opportunities. It also includes updates on growing participation in Thoroughbreds in Equestrian Sport (TiES), engagement with NZTR's Acknowledged Retrainers network, and support provided to vulnerable horses.
The 1% Welfare Levy funds a broad range of initiatives that contribute to the welfare, safety and long-term success of Thoroughbreds, supporting the delivery of NZTR's welfare strategy, Together for the Thoroughbred.
Expanded Wellbeing Support Available for Senior Riders
NZTR is pleased to advise that we are broadening the scope of support available through the Elite Jockey Programme (EJP) by extending access to performance psychologist Dr Rod Corban (RMC Performance Psychology) to our senior riders.
Over the past three years, Rod has worked closely with Jockeys and has developed a strong understanding of the challenges riders face both on and off the track. His work supports Jockeys in areas such as performance mindset, confidence, resilience, emotional regulation, injury setbacks, stress management, and overall wellbeing.
Rod is first and foremost a psychologist, and this foundation strongly shapes his approach to working within the performance environment. With more than 20 years’ experience in high performance sport, his work recognises the close connection between performance, wellbeing, and mental health, particularly in high-pressure environments where the demands on individuals can be significant.
Rod’s style is practical, relatable, and down to earth. Drawing on decades of experience across elite sport, he works alongside individuals to develop sustainable performance mindsets and the psychological tools needed to perform consistently while also supporting long-term wellbeing and personal growth.
NZTR sees this as an important step in continuing to strengthen the support available to our jockeys and ensuring riders have access to experienced, independent support when needed.
Modernising Racing Technology for the Future
NZTR is focused on stabilising its core IT environment and taking a more practical and staged approach to technology modernisation, with a focus on innovation, efficiency and improving the participant experience.
Work is underway to transform participant experience through self-service. Arriving later this year, a newly designed Owners Service Centre will allow participants to register their horses, perform online changes of ownership, and complete welfare reports via the new portal.
The FinishLine is an NZTR developed platform to modernise and digitise the race finishing and resulting operational processes. The platform has undergone further development following a recent workshop with representatives from the RIB, local judges, and clerk-of-scales role holders. Once this next development phase is completed, further field testing will be undertaken prior to a broader launch plan being developed.
Significant work has been undertaken to strengthen and modernise NZTR’s core Race Management System reducing overall operational risk and addressing technical obsolescence. Cybersecurity risk is being addressed through a programme of work to significantly strengthen IT controls, supported by the migration of NZTR’s core systems and services to the cloud, undertaken last year. The technology team have improved the integration with business partners and third parties to support cross-industry collaboration.
Modern, secure and integrated systems are critical to the future success of racing, and this work will continue to evolve.
Chris Trigg
GM Digital
NZTR's IT Team. Photo: NZTR
NZ Racecourse Managers Conference Brings Industry Together
Racecourse managers and industry representatives from across New Zealand came together in Tauranga recently for the 2026 NZ Racecourse Managers Conference. The annual conference provided an opportunity for those working across the racing industry to connect, share knowledge and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing racecourses around the country.
The conference also recognised excellence within the industry with the presentation of several annual awards, including the PGG Wrightson Turf Emerging Racecourse Manager Award, the NZRMA Rising Star Award and the NZRMA Contribution to Racing Award.
Racecourse managers and operational teams play a critical role in delivering safe, reliable and successful racedays across New Zealand.
You can watch the conference wrap up video here.
Read more news from the conference:
- NZ Racecourse Managers Conference
- Ryan Thistoll Recognised with Emerging Racecourse Manager Award - NZTR
NZ Racecourse Managers Conference attendees at Tauranga Racecourse. Photo: Ziba Creative
Brent Wall Recognised for Contribution to Racing
Brent Wall was recognised with the NZRMA Contribution to Racing Award at the 2026 New Zealand Racecourse Managers Association Conference in recognition of his longstanding contribution to the racing industry and support of racecourse managers across New Zealand.
NZRMA Chair Jason Fulford describes Brent as someone who had consistently supported and advocated for racecourse managers throughout the industry for many years.
Accepting the award, Brent reflected on the importance of backing one another within the racing industry and acknowledged the many people he has worked alongside over the years.
Read more about Brent’s contribution and recognition at the NZRMA Conference below.
Read More
NZRMA Contribution to Racing Award recipient, Brent Wall. Photo: Ziba Creative
Racing Returns to Hawke’s Bay
Racing returned to Hastings Racecourse this month following the completion of the track recambering project and final return-to-racing protocols, marking an important milestone for Hawke’s Bay Racing and the wider Central Districts region.
The six-race meeting was the first raceday held at Hastings in almost 20 months and signalled the completion of the final stage of the return-to-racing process. The return was the result of significant work undertaken by Hawke’s Bay Racing, contractors, track specialists and industry participants throughout the project and testing process.
The focus now is on preparing the track for next season. The return of Hastings provides an important boost for racing in the Central Districts ahead of the new season, with the venue set to play a key role in delivering strong racing and continued opportunities for participants, owners and racing fans across the region.
Race 1, Hawke's Bay Racing, 21 May 2026. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images)
Regional Roundup, celebrating standout moments and stories from across the country since our last edition. From milestone achievements to breakthrough wins, these highlights reflect the depth of talent and the strength of our racing community nationwide. If you have a story or highlight to share, feel free to send it through to the editor for a future edition.
Northern
- Amateur jockey Alexandra Reed made the perfect start to her riding career at Whanganui, winning on debut aboard Air Dancer for trainer Clinton Isdale.
- The Cambridge Stud owned Joliestar impressed trainer Chris Waller in her final Flemington jump-out before departing for England to contest the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot.
- Congratulations to Matt Cartwright who celebrated his 100th New Zealand winner aboard Sexy And I Moet before adding two more victories over the weekend to take his tally to 102 wins.
- Congratulations to trainer Jenna Mahoney on bringing up 100 career wins in late May. The milestone came with Sweet Smile at Ellerslie, with Masa Hashizume in the saddle.
Central
- Palmerston North apprentice jockey Toni Davies enjoyed a standout weekend, riding her first career treble at Ōtaki on Saturday 16 May, including her second stakes victory, before rounding it off with another win in the final race at Hawera on Sunday 17 May.
- Congratulations to NZRMA Rising Star Award: Ben Ropiha, New Plymouth Raceway.
- Congratulations to NZRMA Contribution to Racing Award: Brent Wall, Ōtaki-Māori Racing Club.
- Expat Kiwi trainer Chris Waller joined an elite club when recording his 200th Group One win courtesy of Birdman in the Doomben Cup (2000m).
- Champion jumper West Coast returned to winning form at Te Rapa, producing a strong finish to claim the Waikato Hunt Cup and his first victory in 20 months.
Southern
- Congratulations to PGG Wrightson Turf Emerging Racecourse Manager Award: Ryan Thistoll, Riccarton Park.
- After racing was abandoned at Wingatui following Race 2 on 22 May, NZTR, the Otago RC and the RIB successfully rescheduled the meeting nine days later, with 11 races and 126 runners ultimately taking to the track.
- Congratulations to apprentice jockey Donovan Cooper, who celebrated a special milestone at Ascot Park Raceway on 10 May, bringing up his 101st career win.
- South Island apprentice jockey Kendra Bakker celebrated a career milestone in early May when she rode her 50th winner, and has since continued her strong form to move to 62 career victories as she works towards her century.
- Volunteer firefighter and Riccarton Park Operations Manager Phil Leabourn is raising funds for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand through the Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge, with nearly $1,500 raised, you can donate here: Philip Leabourn • Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge 2026
Project Stamina
Work continues on Project Stamina, the industry-wide infrastructure planning project being undertaken jointly by NZTR and Harness Racing New Zealand with support from TAB NZ. The project is focused on developing a long-term, sustainable infrastructure plan for racing across New Zealand, you can read more here: Project Stamina: Joint Industry Update May 2026 - NZTR
Licence Renewal Updates
Key changes have been introduced through this season’s licence renewal process, including the Employment and Business Self Audit, concussion declarations and updated online requirements. Renewals opened on 1 June.
New NZTR Phone System Now Live
Our new phone system makes it easier to get through to the right team at NZTR. Customers can call us on 0800 946 637 and select from six dedicated options:
1. National Racing Bureau
2. Registrations
3. Finance
4. Studbook
5. Licensing
6. Welfare
The new system is designed to help direct calls more efficiently and improve the overall customer experience. Please save the number and share with anyone who may need to contact the team.
National Thoroughbred Week
Planning is now underway for the second National Thoroughbred Week, which will take place from 20-30 November across New Zealand and Australia. Following the success of the inaugural event, National Thoroughbred Week will once again provide an opportunity for the industry to open its gates and showcase the care, dedication and life of the Thoroughbred both during and after racing.
We are seeking expressions of interest from Clubs, trainers, breeders, re-trainers, equestrian organisations and industry participants who would like to be involved in the 2026 event. Participation can include open days, stable and stud tours, community events, school visits, owner experiences, retraining showcases, or other initiatives that help connect the public with the Thoroughbred industry. Participants interested in being involved are encouraged to register their interest with the NZTR National Thoroughbred Week team at NTW@nztr.co.nz.
Careers in Racing
Jockey Development Coach
We’re looking for a Jockey Development Coach to help support and develop the next generation of South Island jockeys. This part-time contractor role, based in Christchurch, is a hands-on opportunity to work directly with Probationers and Apprentice Jockeys as they progress through their careers in thoroughbred racing.
Learn More
Community Support Champion
Our partner OnTrack is looking for a Community Support Champion, based in Auckland, to help build stronger, healthier racing communities across Aotearoa. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys working with people, building trust and turning conversations into meaningful outcomes.
Learn More
If you have roles you would like to advertise, please email marketing@nztr.co.nz, or if would like to view current opportunities within the industry, visit our Careers site.
Key Industry Dates and Deadlines
Upcoming dates, deadlines and reminders relevant to Clubs, trainers, licence holders and industry participants.
- Licence Renewals 1 June – 30 June
- Club insurance declaration due by 3 June
- NZTR Statement of Intent industry consultation 29 June - 10 July
- Save the Date: New Zealand Thoroughbred Horse of the Year Awards, Sunday 6 September, Auckland
- National Thoroughbred Week 20 – 30 November
