🔥 Trending New Zealand Racetrack Closure Proposals: What You Need to Know

New Zealand's horse racing industry is facing a significant restructuring under a proposal known as "Project Stamina," which includes the potential closure of seven racecourses across the country. This plan aims to reform an industry described as "over-venued and under-capitalised" by consolidating operations and investing in fewer, more sustainable facilities ⁴⁶.

Racecourses Proposed for Closure

The seven racecourses identified for closure under Project Stamina are ²⁷⁸:

• Trentham (Wellington) ²⁸
• Rotorua ²⁸
• Manawatū ²
• Hāwera ²
• Ōamaru ²
• Gore ²
• Wyndham ²

Trentham, a particularly iconic venue that has hosted race meetings for 120 years and is home to the Wellington Cup, is among those recommended for mothballing ⁸.

Context and Rationale Behind Project Stamina

Project Stamina was unveiled on July 28, 2026, by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, Harness Racing New Zealand, and TAB NZ ⁵. The proposal stems from an independent review of the industry, which concluded that "doing nothing is not an option" for the sport's long-term viability ⁵.

The core objective of Project Stamina is to create a more sustainable future for New Zealand racing by ¹⁶:

• Consolidation: Reducing the number of racing venues to concentrate resources and investment.
• Efficiency: Streamlining operations across the thoroughbred and standardbred codes.
• Investment: Directing funds towards fewer, higher-quality facilities to enhance the racing experience and infrastructure.

In addition to the seven racecourses, the proposal also suggests closing 12 other venues, indicating a broader overhaul of the industry's infrastructure ³. While the immediate impact of these closures is significant, the industry leaders believe this strategic move is essential for the survival and prosperity of horse racing in New Zealand ³⁴.