Message From NZTR's CEO
This month, we're trying something new and have a video update from Matt, who shares his latest thoughts and provides an update on what’s happening across the industry. Watch below:
Paul Humphries appointed as NZTR Chair
Paul Humphries has been appointed Chair of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing from 1 August through to the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting in November.
Paul brings extensive racing, governance and commercial experience to the role, together with a lifelong connection to the thoroughbred industry. He has been involved in racing as an owner, breeder, sponsor and administrator, and has previously served as Chair of RACE Incorporated, President of the Manawatu Racing Club and Chair of the Members’ Council.
Paul succeeds Russell Warwick, who stepped down as Chair at the end of July and will remain on the NZTR Board as a director through to the AGM.
NZTR is currently arranging meetings with clubs directly impacted by the recommendations in One Equine View. These meetings will provide an opportunity to discuss the recommendations in more detail, explain the rationale behind them, hear directly from clubs and begin working through the next steps.
We recognise the significance of the recommendations and remain committed to genuine and constructive engagement throughout this process.
We encourage anyone who has not yet watched the introductory video or read the full report to do so. These provide important context on the challenges facing the industry, the work undertaken and the long-term direction proposed through Project Stamina.
The video, One Equine View and the full National Masterplan are available at www.nztr.co.nz/projectstamina or by clicking the button below.
If you have any feedback, please send it to stamina@nztr.co.nz
As we begin another racing season, I'd like to thank everyone across our industry for the care, dedication and professionalism you show our Thoroughbreds every day.
The overwhelming majority of people in our industry are deeply committed to doing the right thing by their horses, and it's important we continue to demonstrate that through our actions. Good welfare is reflected in the everyday decisions we make; providing excellent care, working closely with veterinarians and equine professionals, maintaining accurate traceability records, and planning for successful lives beyond racing. Together, these actions help ensure Thoroughbreds enjoy healthy, fulfilling lives before, during and beyond their racing careers.
Thank you to everyone who completed the 2026 New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing Welfare Survey. We received an outstanding 548 responses, with 466 participants entering the draw to win a $500 Prezzy Card. Congratulations to B. Worth (Putāruru), our lucky winner. Your feedback will play an important role in shaping future welfare initiatives, and we look forward to sharing the survey findings with you once the results have been analysed.
Since launching our Together for the Thoroughbred Welfare Strategy 2026–2030 in April, we've been focused on turning the strategy into action. Over the coming months, you'll see a range of new programmes, funding initiatives and support services introduced to help owners and participants continue delivering excellent welfare outcomes.
I'd also encourage everyone to keep sharing the positive stories from our sport. Every day, Thoroughbreds are succeeding on the track, in the sale ring and in retirement, supported by passionate people who go above and beyond for their horses. These stories build trust, showcase our values and remind New Zealanders of the positive contribution Thoroughbred racing makes to our horses, our people and our communities.
Sam Fursdon, GM - Welfare and Industry Capability
Improved Apprentice Jockey Assessment Process
Following review and feedback, NZTR has introduced a new Apprentice Jockey Licensing Recommendation Panel to strengthen the assessment of probationary riders seeking an Apprentice Jockey Licence and entry into the Elite Jockey Programme.
The new process brings together representatives from NZTR, the Racing Integrity Board (RIB), the New Zealand Trainers' Association and each applicant's trainer to ensure recommendations are based on a thorough assessment of a rider's skills, development and readiness to safely commence race riding.
This collaborative approach provides greater consistency, gives trainers a stronger voice and helps ensure apprentice jockeys are well prepared to begin their careers.
Licensed Trainer CPD
Thank you to all Class A and Class B Trainers who completed NZTR's Thoroughbred Welfare Continuing Professional Development (CPD) module. It is fantastic to have our licensed trainers complete this important training for the year, reinforcing their understanding of the core principles of Thoroughbred welfare and their commitment to continuous professional development. Initiatives such as this continue to strengthen professional capability across our industry.
The RIB has advised that all surveillance testing undertaken last week at a number of racing events and studs across Auckland and Central Districts returned negative results, which is excellent news. Planning is now underway for surveillance testing in the Waikato.
Based on these results, the following changes took effect from 6 August:
- Temperature monitoring and the Race & Trial Health Declaration are now only required for horses based in the Waikato.
- North Island to South Island travel requirements remain unchanged, including a negative PCR test and completion of the RIB Strangles Travel Declaration.
- There are no longer any Strangles requirements for horses travelling from the South Island to the North Island.
- The updated Requirements for Interisland Horse Travel Directive can be viewed here: Requirements for Interisland Horse Travel
While the presentation of temperature records for race day and trials is no longer required outside the Waikato, trainers are encouraged to continue monitoring their horses’ temperatures and general health. Good biosecurity practices and prompt reporting of suspected cases are also essential.
Thank you to everyone across the industry for your continued commitment to managing the outbreak. Your vigilance, prompt reporting and strong biosecurity practices are making a real difference.
Please report any suspected or confirmed cases to the RIB at vet@rib.org.nz
For current requirements, travel declarations and support information, visit the NZTR Strangles Hub:
Owners Service Centre
Over the past few months, we’ve shared updates on the work underway to launch a new self-service platform for our Owner and Racing Manager stakeholders. Given the interest in this project, we thought it timely to provide a further update:
The new Owners Service Centre will, for the first time, allow Owners and Racing Managers to see the horses under their ownership or management and perform transactions online. We’ve targeted the high-volume transactions for this initial launch, these being the horse name registration, change of ownership, and welfare reporting. This will replace the current SR19, SR20 and SR24 forms.
The other big change you will see is a much simpler login experience. We’ll be using your email address as your identity within the system, and there are no more passwords to remember! We’ll be using One-Time Passcodes, so when you go to login in, you’ll receive an email with a passcode to login to the system. We’re also enabling text message capability, so if you have an outstanding action to perform – perhaps during the sale or purchase of a horse, our team might text you a reminder to login and complete your action.
For new industry participants, we have designed a new simple onboarding process which includes automated identity checks and bank account verification for stakes payments. This means no more scanning/photographing of ID documents, you’ll just enter your drivers license or passport number into the system, and we’ll run a quick check using a secure third-party online ID checker. We’re also completing the connection to our online payments provider so you can easily pay any fees conveniently through the site.
Our plan is to soft launch this platform in late August and then undertake an exercise to onboard stakeholders onto the platform beyond that.
The Finish Line
The Finish Line is an NZTR developed web application which digitises the race resulting process at the racecourse. The new system provides functionality for the photo-finish operator, the clerk of scales, the judge, steward and the on-course race announcer. This application is connected to NZTR’s core Race Management System and provides real time data to the team at the racecourse. As the race finishes, the workflow kicks in which enables each role holder to complete their tasks, allowing the stewards to finalise the result.
We’ve engaged with industry role holders and the RIB to ensure the system meets their requirements and are just working through some small changes to the weights & allowances functionality before commencing field testing.
This will be a game changer for the industry and we’re excited to launch The Finish Line this season!
Group 1 status confirmed for NZ 2000 Guineas and Livamol Classic
The NZ 2000 Guineas and Livamol Classic will retain their Group 1 status this season following a unanimous vote by the Asian Pattern Committee (APC).
Both races were subject to review after three consecutive renewals fell below the required international race-rating standard, which is calculated using the ratings of the first four placegetters.
“The unanimous support for the retention of the two races as Group 1 contests is pleasing, greatly appreciated and important for New Zealand,” NZTR Senior Handicapper and APC representative Bruce Sherwin said.
“New Zealand’s Group 1 races have been under significant pressure in recent years, with the international race-rating system presenting a challenge for a small racing nation.”
The New Zealand Pattern Committee’s submission emphasised the importance of the NZ 2000 Guineas to both racing and the wider thoroughbred industry. The race is recognised as a potential stallion-maker and boasts an honour roll featuring many of New Zealand’s leading thoroughbreds.
The dominance of Crocetti in 2023 and Savaglee in 2024 worked against the race’s overall rating, while the 2022 renewal also fell short despite Pier, Desert Lightning and Prowess filling the first three placings.
The Livamol Classic, officially registered as the Ormond Memorial, has continued to attract quality fields, although the ratings of its first four finishers have not met the required threshold. The APC acknowledged this factor when considering the race’s status.
Bruce thanked the NZPC and NZTR consultant Mark Freeman for his support in preparing the submission.
Further challenges remain, with the New Zealand Oaks, Telegraph and New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes also sitting below the required international rating. Their Group 1 status will be considered by the APC in early September.
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
- Matamata jockey Craig Grylls has claimed his second consecutive New Zealand National Jockeys' Premiership after riding 140 winners during the 2025/26 season. The standout campaign also featured 11 stakes victories, including Group One successes aboard Waitak, capping another exceptional year for one of the country's leading riders.
- Trainer Joe Waldron has returned to his racing roots in Cambridge, relocating his stable from Wingatui to the complex where he began his career more than a decade ago.
- Te Akau Racing has secured its seventh consecutive New Zealand National Trainers’ Premiership after recording 135 winners and 19 stakes victories throughout the 2025/26 season. Trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson continued the stable’s dominance, with three Group One wins highlighting another outstanding year on both sides of the Tasman.
2025/26 New Zealand Trainers' Premiership winners Sam Bergerson (left) and Mark Walker. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images)
Central
- A memorable day on July 30th at Ōtaki-Māori Racing Club, with all eight races won by female jockeys. A remarkable achievement that highlights the depth, talent and strength of New Zealand’s riding ranks.
- With well over 800 rides to her name this season, Amber Riddell has been the country’s most active jockey in the season just gone, and her hard work has been rewarded with a runaway win in the National Apprentice Jockeys’ Premiership.
- Kayla Macnab celebrated her first win as a trainer when Early Times scored at Waverley on July 24.
Southern
- Remediation work at Phar Lap Raceway has been completed following the abandonment of the 7 June race meeting. Thank you to everyone involved for their hard work and commitment to ensuring the track’s safe return, with trials scheduled for 11 August and racing set to resume on 6 September.
- Ashlee Strawbridge celebrated the first treble of her riding career at Oamaru on July 19, winning aboard Shawshank, Magnastar and Sir Sterling.
What Are The Odds...
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An eagle-eyed punter spotted this remarkable finish in Race 3 at Ruakākā on 11 July, where the horses crossed the line in perfect numerical order; from saddlecloth 1 right through to 7. What are the odds of that?
Updated Privacy Statement
We'd like to let you know that we've updated our Privacy Statement. The updates ensure our Statement remains current and accurately reflects how we collect, use, store, and share personal information in connection with our services and racing activities. You can view the updated Privacy Statement here: NZTR Privacy Statement.
We encourage you to take a moment to review it. If you have any questions about how NZTR handles personal information, please contact us at compliance@nztr.co.nz.
Horse of the Year Tickets
The 2025–26 New Zealand Thoroughbred Horse of the Year Awards are set to celebrate the stars of the season on Sunday, 6 September at Auckland's International Convention Centre. Tickets are now on sale, get yours before they sell out!
Horse of the Year Finalists
Finalists have now been confirmed for the 2025–26 New Zealand Thoroughbred Horse of the Year Awards, with New Zealand's leading horses and racing participants set to be celebrated:
Already announced winners
- New Zealand Jockeys' Premiership: Craig Grylls
- New Zealand Trainers' Premiership: Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson
- New Zealand Apprentice Jockeys' Premiership: Amber Riddell
- New Zealand Owners' Premiership: Gerry Harvey
- Newcomer to Training (sponsored by gavelhouse.com): Ebony Turner
Finalists
- Champion Two-Year-Old: Dream Roca, Lara Antipova, Seize The Day
- Champion Three-Year-Old: Belle Cheval, Ohope Wins, Road To Paris, Well Written
- Champion Sprinter-Miler: First Five, Jaarffi, Jigsaw, Provence, Waitak
- Champion Middle Distance Horse: Kingswood, Legarto, Waitak
- Champion Stayer: Manzor Blue, Ohope Wins, Paradise Storm, Road To Paris
- Champion Jumper: Captains Run, Jesko, Leaderboard, Nedwin, Suliman, Taika
- Jockey of the Year: Opie Bosson, Craig Grylls, George Rooke
- Jumps Jockey of the Year: Emily Farr, Will Featherstone, Mathew Gillies, Jay Kozaczek, Hamish McNeill
- Trainer of the Year: Stephen Marsh; Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson
- Owner of the Year: Brian Anderton & the Estate of Lorraine Anderton, Archer Family, Cambridge Stud, Jill Devine, John Elstob & Denise Bassett, Gerry Harvey, JML Bloodstock, Jomara Bloodstock, The Oaks Stud, Pencarrow Thoroughbreds, Tony Rider, Kelvin & Vanessa Tyler, Yulong Investments.
Horse Ambulance 10 year Campaign
It’s not just the beginning of a new season - this week also marks the launch of the NZ Horse Ambulance Trust's winter appeal Here For The Horse!
For the past 10 years, the Horse NZ Ambulance Trust has been dedicated to protecting the safety and welfare of New Zealand's equine athletes, providing a world-leading national horse ambulance service. Attending over 700 race meetings, trials and equestrian events every year, New Zealand remains the only racing jurisdiction in the world with a dedicated nationwide horse ambulance fleet.
You can help ensure this vital service continues for years to come. From live auctions and raffles to raceday activations and fundraising initiatives, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
To show your support, head to https://givealittle.co.nz/org/nz-horse-ambulance-trust
GST Change for Welfare Levy
Following a recent binding ruling from Inland Revenue, we are pleased to announce that GST will no longer be applied to the Welfare Levy. This change applies to welfare levies charged to owners, trainers, and jockeys, and will take effect from 1 August 2026.
If you have any questions regarding this change, please contact the NZTR Finance team.
OnTrack: Here for Racing People
We know there is a lot of pressure across the racing industry at the moment. OnTrack provides free, confidential and independent support to anyone working in racing.
We can help with pressures at work or at home, including stress, financial worries, employment issues, family pressures, grief, health concerns or worries about someone else.
We know people in racing are time-poor, so we work around you. A five-minute phone call or a quick chat at the stables can be enough to talk things through and work out what to do next.
We can listen, help with immediate pressures, support difficult conversations, connect you with practical services and stay alongside you if more support is needed.
We can also help if you are worried about someone else. We can talk through what you have noticed and help you work out how to start the conversation. You do not need to have all the answers.
Anything you talk to us about is private and will not be passed on to employers, owners, racing bodies or regulators.
You do not need to wait until things get really bad. Call OnTrack on 0800 667 224.
Key Industry Dates and Deadlines
Upcoming dates, deadlines and reminders relevant to Clubs, trainers, license holders and industry participants.
- Apprentice Awards: Central, 3 September
- New Zealand Thoroughbred Horse of the Year Awards, Sunday 6 September, Auckland
- Apprentice Awards: Southern, 11 September
- Apprentice Awards: Northern, 21 September
- National Thoroughbred Week, Host Expressions of Interest Close, 30 September
- National Thoroughbred Week, 20 – 30 November
