Racing
League
Rugby
Football
Cricket
Golf
Sport Nation
Motorsport
Netball
Basketball
Combat Sports
Olympics
Other Sports
Live sport on SN this weekendNZTR and HRNZ unite behind programme for a sustainable racing future
Sport Nation • August 21st, 2026 3:19 pm
NZ racing codes unite with TAB NZ to explore a sustainable future for the industry | Photo: Supplied
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) and Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) have signed an agreement to work alongside TAB NZ to progress a programme of work to consider options for a more sustainable, efficient and future-focused New Zealand racing industry.
Under the agreement, an Establishment Board, led by an independent Chair, supported by an independent member and representatives appointed by TAB NZ, NZTR and HRNZ, will develop options for a more sustainable, efficient and future-focused industry governance and operating model.
It will take a system-wide approach, considering the long-term interests of New Zealand racing while drawing on evidence, commercial analysis and international best practice.
No preferred future model has been decided, with the Board set to develop and assess a range of options before making recommendations to the three organisations.
Any material changes will remain subject to approval from the relevant organisations, along with any applicable governance, consultation or statutory requirements.
NZTR Chair Paul Humphries said the agreement reflected a shared determination to confront the industry’s challenges and create a stronger platform for future generations.
“This is a positive and necessary step for New Zealand racing. We have a clear opportunity to work together, look beyond existing structures and build an industry that is sustainable, competitive and equipped for the future,” Humphries said.
“Thoroughbred racing is a vital part of New Zealand’s sporting, economic and cultural fabric, and its strength will be central to the success of this reform.
"We will bring a clear voice, deep industry expertise and a strong commitment to securing the best possible outcome for thoroughbred racing and the wider racing system.
"Our participants, clubs, owners, breeders, punters and communities deserve an industry that is thriving, resilient and built to endure,” Humphries said.
HRNZ Chair Grant Jarrold said collaboration between the codes and TAB NZ would be critical to ensuring the industry remained strong and sustainable for the long-term.
“The challenges facing racing are shared, and they require us to look beyond individual organisations and consider what is best for the wider racing system.
"Establishing this Board gives us a disciplined, independently led process to examine the options thoroughly and develop a clear, evidence-based pathway for the future,” Jarrold said.
“For HRNZ, this is about protecting what makes harness racing strong, our participants, clubs, communities and pathways, while being prepared to challenge structures or practices where there is a better way of doing things.
"Any significant change must ultimately demonstrate that it creates a stronger, more efficient and sustainable racing industry for the people who participate in and support it,” Jarrold said.
The Establishment Board will appoint a Programme Director and may establish specialist working groups to support its work, which is expected to get underway quickly.
NZTR and HRNZ are committed to open and transparent communication and will provide their respective racing communities with regular updates as the programme progresses.
