Final Results for 2026 National Yearling Sale

Following a fast-paced two days of selling at NZB Standardbred’s 2026 National Yearling Sale, final figures have been confirmed across the Auckland and Christchurch sessions.

Trade continued well beyond the fall of the hammer, with the NZB Standardbred team and vendors actively negotiating passed-in lots.

The final turnover closed at $12,032,500 from 223 yearlings sold. The average settled at $53,957, the median at $40,000, and the clearance rate at a healthy 76%.

The domestic buying bench remained strong, accounting for almost $10 million in spend. Australian investment also lifted, reaching $2.1 million, up from $1.7 million in 2025.

At the conclusion of selling, Stonewall Stud emerged as the leading buyer, securing 17 yearlings for $1.68 million, while Kentuckiana Lodge followed with 16 purchases totalling more than $1.1 million.

Breckon Farms finished as leading vendor by aggregate, selling 31 yearlings for more than $2.1 million, with further deals completed on their remaining lots after the session.

Leading sire by average was trotting stallion Walner, whose three yearlings averaged $220,000. His standout, Lot 258 realised $290,000 to Stonewall Stud and Stables from Laura Smith’s draft in Christchurch, while Lot 81 sold for $240,000 to Barry Purdon and Scott Phelan Racing from Hollis and Robertson Equine Services’ draft in Auckland, both offered on account of Yabby Dam Farms.

“It’s a dream come true,” said Yabby Dam Farms’ Pat Driscoll.

“Laura Smith has prepared her beautifully. To see these trotters go to Stonewall Stud, Barry Purdon and the likes is fantastic, they believe in them.”

NZB Standardbred Manager Cam Bray was pleased with the overall result.

“Despite the condensed catalogue, there was still appetite for quality, and the market remained healthy throughout the Sale.”

“The figures are slightly skewed by two exceptional lots sold last year, but when those are removed, the comparison is very positive for fewer yearlings,” he added.

“Vendors are focusing on what the market wants in today’s economic climate, and those who met it were rewarded.

“We’d like to thank all vendors, buyers, underbidders and those who contributed to the success of the 2026 National Yearling Sale. We now look forward to building towards the next.”

All yearlings purchased at the 2026 National Standardbred Yearling Sale are eligible for the lucrative $1 million Harness Million Sale Race Series. Entries close Friday 6 March. To register your purchase, email standardbred@nzb.co.nz or call +64 9 298 0055.

Attention now turns to the National Weanling Sale on Thursday 25 June, with entries opening soon.