News

HRNZ has issued this Directive to reduce the risk of Strangles spreading within the harness racing industry while aiming to allow racing and trialling to continue with minimal disruptions.

This Directive relates to all standardbred breeding, training, trialling and racing activities. This Directive replaces all directives relating to Strangles Disease Management issued by HRNZ previously.

Trainers and horse owners are urged to stay alert following the recent detection of Strangles cases in the Waikato Region.

Harness Racing NZ has appointed Anna Flynn as Interim Commercial Director to lead the organisation. Anna will join the team on 1 July.

Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) welcomes comments by Racing Minister Winston Peters encouraging the industry to work together to secure the long-term future of racing in New Zealand.

Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) and New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) advise that a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was provided to TAB NZ and the TAB NZ  Advisory Committee on Friday, 5 June, 2026.

Horse owners are urged to stay alert as Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial disease, and vigilance is key to protecting equine health.

HRNZ would like to let clubs know about an upcoming change to the timing of stakes and club funding payments, intended to support improved cashflow for participants during what continues to be a challenging economic environment.

HRNZ would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a festive and safe New Year.