Hawea is back - and everyone's invited

After a Covid-enforced cancellation last year the Hawea Picnic races are back, and entries are now open for what organisers are hoping will be a very successful return.

The races, which date back to 1946, are a popular holiday attraction in the Queenstown District. There will be eight harness and gallops races at the Hawea Flat Domain on Wednesday, December 28, starting at 10 am.

"We had 1500 people two years ago," says Hawea Picnic Racing Club Chairman Paul Cunningham, "it's a family orientated day where people can have picnics and just enjoy a fun day's racing."

Betting is available though it's an equalisator meeting where people are allocated tickets. A total of $350,250 and $150 will go the connections of the top three horses in each race.

Last year's cancellation was just the second time since the end of Second World War that the races hadn't been held.

"We are really looking forward to hosting our races again and want to make sure trainers and owners know that we will be back and they are most welcome to be part of the action."

Anyone wishing to register their interest can email Anna here or call here