Featuring the $3.5m NZB Kiwi slot race; Jax Jones in association with The Grand Tour; the 20th edition of New Zealand's national fashions in the field final, The Ned Prix de Fashion; Trackside New Zealand Derby; Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup; Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes; Sistema Stakes; New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes; and more.
Mark your calendars—Champions Day is here to redefine Auckland’s social scene, and it’s shaping up to be the event of the season.
This brand-new spectacle introduces a game-changer for New Zealand Thoroughbred racing: the sport’s first-ever slot race, the NZB Kiwi, with a jaw-dropping $3.5 million in stakes on offer. With some of the slots to get into the race selling for over $700,000, it’s set to be a clash of the titans that’s bound to deliver edge-of-your-seat action when the gates fly open on 8 March.
But the NZB Kiwi is just the beginning. The day also boasts a stellar lineup of top-tier races, including the time-honoured Trackside New Zealand Derby and the Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup, as well as the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes, New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes, Sistema Stakes and more. It’s an event that’s set to attract international attention, fast-tracking its way onto the must-attend list of racing enthusiasts and social butterflies alike.
And it’s not just about the races. Off the track, there’s a feast of activities to keep you entertained between the action.
The 20th running of The Ned Prix de Fashion will see style icons from around the country compete in the ultimate national fashions in the field final – New Zealand’s answer to the Melbourne Cup’s most stylish fashion moments. With qualifying events already taking place nationwide and a handful of spots still up for grabs on the day, the runway is set to be a fierce showcase of the country’s best-dressed. For those content with spectating, our hot tip is to get yourself a ticket into The Ned Fashion Garden (and add on a bonus upgrade into The Grove for later) where you can and soak up the colour and creativity and sip on some of New Zealand’s finest wine. Plus, any gents in tow can step up their style game too, with a dedicated menswear competition. (Pro tip: Start planning those outfits now.)
The Grand Tour Racing Festival will be in full swing on the day too, closing out their season in style with a major presence in The Enclosure and the famous Birdcage Bash after-party (open to all ticketholders; entry conditions apply) that promises to be the stuff of legends with headline act, UK DJ Jax Jones.
Having recently made DJ Mag’s Top 100 World DJs list, Jax Jones – who once performed on Love Island UK – will ensure the event finishes on a high with his crowd favourite tracks including OUT OUT (ft. Charli XCX), You Don’t Know Me (ft. RAYE), I Got You (ft Duke Dumont), Where Did You Go (ft. MNEK) and Tonight (D.I.Y.A) (ft. Jason Derulo, Pitbull).
Families aren’t forgotten either though with plenty of free games and activities to keep the little ones entertained throughout the day. And with free general admission for those under 15, it’s an ideal choice for parents looking to bring the kids along for some fresh air and fun during the day.
Trust us, this one’s going to be epic.
Please note that raceday carparking is accessible via 16 Derby Downs Place. Mobility / accessible parking, ticket collection, drop-offs and foot traffic via 100 Ascot Avenue. Learn more here.
In addition to the shared hospitality precincts listed below, private hospitality options are available. Contact us to learn more.
If you require accommodation in Auckland to rest your hooves following a big day trackside, our partner SkyCity Auckland has you covered.
SkyCity Auckland offers a trio of exceptional accommodations that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences with SkyCity Hotel, The Grand by SkyCity, and Horizon by SkyCity.
We’re excited to offer our racegoers an exclusive 20% discount on the standard room rate at these three locations, valid until the end of March 2025.
Simply click the hyperlinks above to automatically apply the discount to your booking.
Learn more