The Grand Tour is once again set to bring the festival vibes to New Zealand’s premier racecourses, when season three kicks off in Hastings with the iconic Livamol Classic Raceday on October 12.
The Grand Tour, backed by new kids on the wagering block, betcha, aims to attract a younger demographic to key events on New Zealand’s revitalised racing calendar. Following a successful 2023/24 season, it remains central to New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s (NZTR) strategy to drive on-course attendance and introduce a new generation of racing enthusiasts to the sport.
Building on the hype and energy of season two, NZTR, together with New Zealand’s premier racing clubs, will bring a fresh focus to the raceday experience. Internationally renowned Australian DJ, Hot Dub Time Machine will make his kiwi raceday debut at Riccarton Park on 9 November to kick off New Zealand Cup Meeting, and Peking Duk are backing up their season two appearance, making a return to Trentham for NZCIS Wellington Cup Day on 18 January. A stellar stable of local DJs will entertain the crowds across the remaining days of the Tour, with one headline act still to be announced for Ellerslie’s Champions Day on 8 March, the Tour’s grand finale.
The Grand Tour promises a blend of top-tier entertainment, style and hospitality to captivate a new audience, combined with thrilling on-track action. Fashion has always played a key role on raceday, one of the rare opportunities for kiwis to up the style stakes and dress to impress. This season the call is out for racegoers to ditch the casual and embrace the chic to enjoy an unforgettable day track side.
NZTR’s Head of Marketing, Communications and Wagering Partnerships Dan Smith says their objective is simple: “Deliver an exceptional experience that resonates with a younger audience at our premier events, with a hope that we capture their imagination, and a lasting connection is made with our sport.”
Smith adds, “The Grand Tour aims to deliver the sort of experience this generation is looking for – a memorable day out with friends, where they can dress up, and immerse themselves in an atmosphere like no other, enjoying great music, engaging activations, and top-notch hospitality – all while soaking in the action on the track.”
NZTR are delighted to have betcha on board as this season’s major partner, with aligned goals of attracting a new social audience to racing, and a desire to drive wagering for the benefit of the wider industry, it’s an exciting partnership opportunity for both brands.
Pip Eriksen, General Manager – Marketing (NZ) for Entain Australia and New Zealand, the operators of betcha, says the partnership is an outstanding fit.
“The Grand Tour perfectly aligns with the energy and excitement of our new sports and racing brand, betcha,” Eriksen says.
“This partnership offers us a unique opportunity to introduce wagering to racegoers, enhancing their raceday experience with the thrill of betting through our digital platforms.
“We can’t wait to showcase our brand to racegoers across New Zealand and be part of the unforgettable atmosphere that The Grand Tour is renowned for.”
From 12 October 2024 to 8 March 2025, The Grand Tour’s 12 premier racedays across Hawke’s Bay, Christchurch, Auckland, Waikato and Wellington, will deliver thrilling thoroughbred racing action on the turf and a spectacular mix of style, hospitality and entertainment off it.
Event Schedule:
12 October 2024 – Livamol Classic Raceday, Hastings
9 November 2024 – Al Basti Equiworld Dubai NZ 2000 Guineas Day, Riccarton Park
13 November 2024 – The TAB Mile Raceday, Riccarton Park
16 November 2024 – Martin Collins NZ Cup & Barneswood Farm NZ 1000 Guineas Day, Riccarton Park
23 November 2024 – TAB Counties Cup Day, Pukekohe Park
14 December 2024 – SkyCity Hamilton Waikato Cup Day, Te Rapa
26 December 2024 – SkyCity Boxing Day Races, Ellerslie
11 January 2025 – Group One Super Saturday, Trentham
18 January 2025 – NZCIS Wellington Cup Day, Trentham
25 January 2025 – TAB Karaka Millions, Ellerslie
1 February 2025 – Summer Raceday, Ellerslie
8 March 2025 – Champions Day, Ellerslie
Tickets are now on sale – secure yours today at thegrandtour.nz