It was a big weekend for New Zealand racing.
Not only did the racing world see the emergence of a potential star in Well Written, wagering on the Karaka Millions meeting went gangbusters.
Hot weather in Australia no doubt helped – South Australia’s meeting was cancelled but crucially Melbourne racing was brought forward which lined up well with New Zealand.
The results were significant. Entain [who also run the NZ TAB] said their turnover on the day was up an impressive 72%.
Active Entain customers were up 32%, while there was an 3% increase in starters on race day.
It comes as New Zealand racing continues to grow and work to attract more Australian investment.
The inclusion of world pool races on the day plus broadcasting across Australia – all races on racing.com and races 3-7 on Channel 7- were also important factors.
“There’s clear momentum in New Zealand racing now, which reflects Entain’s significant investment in the industry,’’ Entain’s Director of Industry and External Affairs, Andrew Hannan said.
“These results highlight the strength and appeal of the Karaka Millions as a premier racing event on the calendar, even in Australia.
“We recognise that some scheduling changes to Australian meetings on the day assisted these figures, but its strength and appeal cannot be ignored.
“Entain remains fully invested in the future of New Zealand racing, with events like Saturday;s Karaka Millions demonstrating how our support is driving participation and wagering growth.
“Were optimistic this trajectory will continue as we build on these fantastic results.”
