Series Stake money holds firm for 2026/27

With spring racing fast approaching, the NZ Sires’ Stakes Board has confirmed an unchanged stakes commitment across all administered series for 2026/27.

CEO Martin Pierson says maintaining premium stakes is a major win for the industry.

“It looks like the industry is in for another reset ahead, so we’re delighted to have the NZ Sires’ Stakes series stakes levels stay at premium.”

“There’s a determination to keep these races the best place to race for subscribers — the owners, breeders, trainers, and of course the fans.”

Fillies Get a Bump

The Caduceus Club is lifting the Group 2 Ladyship Stakes (3YO Fillies) from $70,000 to $100,000 for its Auckland feature in March 2027, strengthening the fillies’ pathway and rewarding depth in the division.

Garrard’s 3YO Colts and Geldings Final Returns to Cup Week

The Sires' Stakes Board has also confirmed a major programming change for 2027:

The Garrard’s 3YO Colts and Geldings Series will be repositioned from Autumn 2027 to Spring 2027. This means the Final returns to Cup Week, and the two Semi Finals will be programmed with one in each island in the spring.

Official race dates will be announced closer to the time but the shift is locked in.

This adjustment restores the series to its traditional spring setting and aligns the pathway with peak racing interest and participation.

Administrative Dates

Remittances for Foal Nominations, Yearling Sustaining, and Three‑Year‑Old Sustaining fees will be issued from tomorrow (August 5), with payments due 1 September 2026.

Pierson says he is always available to help owners and trainers navigate payments or map out a path for their horses.

“It can be a process, especially when you’ve got a couple or more horses on the books. But I’m always keen to help — making sure people and their horses are on the same page to maximise potential in their series.”

Spring Build-Up

Like a two‑year‑old back in work after a freshen‑up, the NZ Sires’ Stakes is ‘on the chewy’ for spring and summer harness racing action to begin.

Early heats for the Dunstan Horsefeeds and Nevele R Fillies Series begin 21 August and 30 August, signalling the start of a busy spring racing calendar.

Race dates for the remainder of 2026 are available here 

Programme Conditions are available here