This November, something new is galloping onto the calendar.
The inaugural National Thoroughbred Week is here – a first-of-its-kind initiative inviting New Zealanders to step inside the world of the Thoroughbred industry.
For the first time, more than 17 breeding farms, training stables and aftercare facilities across the country will open their gates to the public, offering a behind-the-scenes look at life on some of New Zealand’s most iconic horse farms.
From Cambridge and Matamata to Masterton and Christchurch, visitors can meet the horses, chat with the people who care for them, and learn about everything from foaling and training to rehoming and aftercare.
Waikato
- Cambridge Stud – One of New Zealand’s most iconic farms, home to leading stallions and an extraordinary legacy of breeding excellence.
- Trelawney Stud – Historic boutique farm producing top-class racehorses, proudly showcasing its world-class facilities.
- Elsdon Park – A rising star in Matamata’s breeding scene with a strong focus on quality and horsemanship.
- Ballymore Racing – The Matamata base of Group 1 trainer Pam Gerard, giving a behind-the-scenes look at life on a working racing stable.
- Club Med Lodge – Family-run equestrian property in Taupiri, opening its doors to share the joy of Thoroughbreds after racing.
- Matamata Racing Club – The heart of training in the Waikato, offering a guided look into New Zealand’s busiest training centre.
Auckland
- Haunui Farm – A cornerstone of New Zealand breeding, with a proud reputation for stallion standing and high-quality bloodstock.
- Byerley Park – A purpose-built training and education hub just outside Karaka, home to trainers and equestrian professionals and the NZ Equine Academy. Participating on-site trainers include
- Kylie Hoskin of Pinnacle Racing, Donna Logan, Barbara Kennedy, Danny Walker and Arron Tata of Brookby Racing.
Canterbury
- Champagne Racing – Located at Riccarton Park, this team is known for its love of Thoroughbreds and dedication to their welfare and performance.
- Kezia Murphy Racing – A rising female trainer in Christchurch, opening her stable for fans to learn more about racing life in the South Island.
Central Districts
- Little Avondale Stud – Home of Per Incanto and one of New Zealand’s most historic and successful commercial studs, based in Masterton.
- InToWin Open Day – The Barns – An ownership syndicator offering a unique day for new fans to meet racehorses and experience the buzz of ownership. Trainers include Singapore’s champion trainer Stephen Gray, Roydon Bergerson, Peter & Trent Didham, Mike Breslin, Lisa Latta and Matthew Eales.
- Makohau Stables – Niall Quinn – Set on rolling hills outside Turakina, this stable blends horsemanship and passion in a boutique environment.
Northland
- Michelle Bradley Racing – Based at Ruakaka Beach, this northern stable brings a close-up look at racehorse training by the sea.
National Thoroughbred Week will be held from Thursday, the 20th to Monday, the 24th of November 2025, with events free to attend, but booking is essential.
