Introduction to Racecourses in New Zealand
New Zealand is a nation known for its love of sports and racing, and the country boasts a number of world-class racecourses. From thoroughbred racing to harness racing, horse racing is an integral part of the country’s culture and identity. But just how many racecourses are there in New Zealand?
Overview of NZ Racecourses
In New Zealand, there are currently 21 racecourses in total, including both thoroughbred and harness racing tracks. The majority of these racecourses are located in the North Island of New Zealand, with the remainder located in the South Island. Some of the major racecourses include Ellerslie, Trentham, Riccarton Park, and Addington Raceway.
Thoroughbred Racecourses
In New Zealand, thoroughbred racing is popular and there are a number of racecourses dedicated to this type of racing. Most of the thoroughbred racecourses are located in the North Island, with the exception of Riccarton Park and the Wingatui Racecourse in the South Island.
North Island Thoroughbred Racecourses
- Auckland: Ellerslie, Avondale, Te Aroha, Pukekohe, Ruakaka, Matamata, Te Rapa, and Waipa
- Waikato: Te Rapa, Te Awamutu, and Cambridge
- Bay of Plenty: Tauranga and Te Teko
- Hawke’s Bay: Hastings and Woodville
- Taranaki: New Plymouth
- Manawatu-Wanganui: Wanganui, Awapuni, and Foxton
- Wellington: Trentham and Wairarapa
South Island Thoroughbred Racecourses
- Canterbury: Riccarton Park and Wingatui
- Otago: Oamaru and Gore
Harness Racing Tracks
New Zealand is also home to a number of harness racing tracks, which are primarily located in the North Island. The most notable of these tracks is the Addington Raceway, which is one of the most iconic racecourses in the country.
North Island Harness Racing Tracks
- Auckland: Alexandra Park and Manukau
- Waikato: Cambridge, Rotorua, and Matamata
- Bay of Plenty: Te Awamutu and Tauranga
- Hawke’s Bay: Hastings
- Manawatu-Wanganui: Palmerston North and Foxton
- Wellington: Addington Raceway and Wairarapa
Other Racecourses in NZ
Aside from thoroughbred and harness racing tracks, New Zealand is also home to a few other types of racecourses. These include trotting tracks, greyhound tracks, and even a motor racing track.
Trotting Tracks
There are several trotting tracks located throughout New Zealand, including Alexandra Park in Auckland, Cambridge in Waikato, Oamaru in Otago, and Addington Raceway in Wellington.
Greyhound Tracks
Greyhound racing is also popular in New Zealand, and there are several greyhound tracks located throughout the country. These include the Hatrick Raceway in Manawatu-Wanganui, the Manukau Greyhound Racing Club in Auckland, and the Addington Greyhound Racing Club in Wellington.
Motor Racing Tracks
Finally, there is one motor racing track in New Zealand, located at the Hampton Downs Motorsport Park in Waikato. This track hosts a variety of events, including the New Zealand Grand Prix.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are currently 21 racecourses in New Zealand, including both thoroughbred and harness racing tracks, as well as trotting, greyhound, and motor racing tracks. These racecourses are located throughout the country, with the majority of them located in the North Island. Whether you’re a fan of thoroughbred racing, harness racing, or motor racing, there’s something for everyone in New Zealand.