What is Next Gen
Empowering Trainers, Owners, and Syndicate Managers to Shape the Future of Harness Racing
Next Gen is a ground-breaking initiative by Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) designed to drive growth and innovation in harness racing ownership. Whether you’re a trainer, an experienced owner, or a syndicate manager, Next Gen provides the tools and incentives you need to build your business, expand your network, and achieve success on and off the track.
Why Choose Next Gen?
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Exclusive Rewards: Access over $600,000 in bonuses, including the $50,000 Harness Million bonus.
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Expand Your Ownership Base: Connect with aspiring owners through HRNZ initiatives, growing your network and client base.
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Elevate Your Expertise: Highlight your skills and dedication as a trainer or syndicate manager by working with eligible horses.
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Commit to the Future: Be part of a programme that supports emerging trainers and sires, spotlighting the next generation of talent in harness racing.
What Makes a Horse Next Gen Eligible?
To qualify for Next Gen bonuses and rewards, horses must meet the following criteria:
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Be purchased at the 2026 NZB Standardbred National Yearling Sales.
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Meet one of the following criteria:
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Trained by a Next Gen trainer (non Group 1 winning trainer as of January 1, 2026).
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Owned by a Next Gen ownership group, with at least 30% of members being first-time HRNZ owners or individuals born after 1985
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Sired by a stallion in his first three New Zealand or Australian crops.
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Eligible sires include:
- Bettor's Wish
- Bird Parker
- Bold Eagle
- Bulldog Hanover
- Capt Mignight
- Dancinginthedark M
- E L Titan
- Ecurie D
- Elite Stride
- Face Time Bourbon
- Habibi Inta
- Huntsville
- King Of Swing
- King Of The North
- On A Streak
- Pebble Beach
- Perfect Sting
- Propulsion
- Tall Dark Stranger
- Timoko
- Ultimate Sniper
- Village Mystic
- Walner
- Zenith Stride
How Next Gen Benefits You
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For Trainers: Attract new owners, build your client base, and elevate your profile by training horses eligible for exclusive bonuses.
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For Owners: Gain access to affordable ownership pathways and experience the thrill of competing for substantial rewards.
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For Syndicate Managers: Market affordable and exciting ownership shares to expand your syndicates and attract new members.
Next Gen Terms and Conditions 2026
Next Gen Terms and Conditions 2025