The Ellerslie racecourse in Auckland successfully withstood over 100mm of rain ahead of the Karaka Millions meeting, showcasing the resilience of its newly laid StrathAyr track. After initial problems with horses slipping on the surface two years ago, significant improvements were made following expert advice from Liam O’Keeffe of the Victoria Racing Club. Since implementing a new maintenance program in spring 2024, Ellerslie has hosted around 30 race meetings without issue, even under heavy rainfall, highlighting the importance of investing in quality track infrastructure to support racing and wagering.

Ellerslie’s performance contrasts with ongoing challenges at other New Zealand tracks like Hastings and Awapuni, where major refurbishments and renovations are still underway due to safety concerns. The success at Ellerslie serves as a model for the industry, especially as New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and wagering partner Entain push for sustainable investment in racing infrastructure. While Ellerslie may soon reach its capacity of about 25 meetings per year, it remains a critical asset for the industry, with continued expert guidance ensuring it can handle increased demands.