- By Helena O’Neill, Franklin Times
For five days only, Kiwis can have a rare inside look at the thoroughbred horse industry.
The inaugural National Thoroughbred Week (NTW), held from today until November 24, invites people to step inside the world of the thoroughbred horse racing industry.
NTW has been developed by a volunteer steering committee comprising representatives from both sides of the Tasman.
NTW co-founder and Kick Up director Vicky Leonard says the event represents a shift from reactive defence to proactive engagement.
“Every year during Spring racing, the conversation inevitably turns to negative assumptions about [horse] welfare, and most often it’s shaped by people who’ve never been inside a stable,” Leonard says.
“As an industry, we have a great deal to be proud of – the care, professionalism, and people behind it.
“NTW is our chance to show that pride to the public, and it aligns perfectly with Kick Up’s mission to give racing its voice back.”
Westbury Stud in Karaka hosts two-hour guided tours from 1-3pm today, November 20, and on Friday, November 21, and Monday, November 24.
They’ll offer visitors the chance to see foals and yearlings in their barns, the facilities, and even pat a retired racehorse.
Registered NTW guests can take an organised tour (three groups of 10) at Pukekohe Park on Counties Cup Day on November 22 to learn more about the inner workings of a race club, the participants and the care put into the horses.
The New Zealand Horse Ambulance Trust will also be there to show a purpose-built ambulance.
Its national fleet is equipped with support and recovery equipment to assist in the provision of critical care to horses injured while competing in equine sports.
Two of Auckland’s most significant equine hubs – Haunui Farm in Karaka, and Byerley Park in Kingseat – are opening their gates to the public.
Visitors can meet the horses, trainers, and teams behind the scenes, and see first-hand how the local facilities are shaping the next generation of New Zealand racing talent.
Haunui Farm and Byerley Park open days are from 10am to midday on Sunday, November 23.
Haunui Farm managing director Mark Chitty, also a qualified veterinarian, says the morning will begin with a parade, introducing visitors to four of its mares with foals, and yearling thoroughbreds.
Byerley Park is offering a tour of its racing stable, with visitors able to find out about the daily routine and care that goes into having a racehorse in peak condition.
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing chief executive Matt Ballesty says the week represents a practical way to bring transparency, education, and community together.
“NTW is a chance for the public to see the care and passion of our industry in action.
“It’s about opening our doors, showing the professionalism behind the sport, and building genuine understanding of what thoroughbred life really looks like in New Zealand.
“Across regional New Zealand, racing and breeding is woven into the fabric of local communities,” says Ballesty.
“They create jobs, sustain businesses, and bring people together through a shared love of horses.
“By opening our gates, we’re helping people understand the role thoroughbreds play in those communities and hopefully sparking inspiration in the next generation, whether that’s a future jockey, vet, farrier, or simply someone who loves horses and wants to be part of their world.”
More information is at www.thoroughbredweek.co.nz.
