Industry Notice: Implementation of Handicapping and Rating Changes

Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) is pleased to announce important new detail around upcoming changes to the Handicapping and Ratings system.

The changes will come into effect from 11.59pm, Sunday, June 29, 2025 and to help with the transition the National Racing Bureau has confirmed how the system will run.

To provide added support during the initial implementation phase, the Bureau will operate fully out of the HRNZ offices in Christchurch from Monday, 30 June to Thursday, 3 July. This centralised operation will enable faster co-ordination and a more responsive service.

Handicapping and Programming Changes:

R35–R40 Programming

For the initial 6 weeks, these races will be conducted entirely as open nominations. Fields will be determined based on nominations received, with the aim of delivering like-for-like opportunities. This flexible model allows the Bureau to respond dynamically to nomination trends as the new system beds in.

R41 and Above

Races at this level will be programmed under standard expectations, though additional conditions may be applied where appropriate to continue promoting like-for-like racing across the board.

Adjustments to Nomination and Acceptance Schedules :

Addington (Friday, 4 July) and Auckland (Friday, 4 July)
Nominations close: Tuesday, 1 July at 12:00 noon
Acceptances close: Tuesday, 1 July at 2:00pm

Cambridge (Thursday, 3 July) and Invercargill (Sunday, 6 July) will be as usual - with nominations closing on Monday, June 30 at 12.00 noon for Cambridge, and Tuesday, July 1 at 12.00 noon for Invercargill. Acceptances for both will close at 2pm.

HRNZ would also like to thank trainers for their help in making the transition to the on-line system for nominations and driver notifications the success it has been. Your support and professionalism are greatly appreciated as we move forward under the new handicapping and ratings framework.

For further information or assistance, please contact:

John Mooney – Strategic Racing Advisor - john.mooney@hrnz.co.nz
Matthew Peden – Head of Racing and Wagering - matthew.peden@hrnz.co.nz
National Racing Bureau - bureau@hrnz.co.nz