Auckland Thoroughbred Racing (ATR) says it’s thrilled about the return of the TAB Karaka Millions at Ellerslie Racecourse, promising an electrifying evening of twilight horse racing and entertainment tomorrow Saturday.
With more than $5 million in stakes on offer and a reputation as New Zealand’s most glamorous race night, organisers say the January 25 event is set to attract the nation’s finest equine talent alongside a star-studded crowd.
Held on the eve of New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sales, the TAB Karaka Millions at Ellerslie combines high-stakes racing with top-tier hospitality, a dose of style and entertainment, making it a highlight of Auckland’s summer social calendar.
Paul Wilcox, the chief executive of ATR, says: “The TAB Karaka Millions is a showcase of excellence in New Zealand racing.
“With three million-dollar-plus races, a stellar lineup of group-level racing competition that has seen the meeting make the grade for Hong Kong Jockey Club’s prestigious World Pool, and an unparalleled atmosphere, it’s a true celebration of the sport and colour of a race day.”
- Three $1 million-plus races, including the $1.5m TAB Karaka Millions 3YO where the nation’s top three-year-old thoroughbred horses race for glory over 1600 metres.
- Three group-level races: The relocation of the Group 1 $700,000 Sistema Railway (formerly run at Ellerslie on New Year’s Day) heads up the evening’s Group racing, bringing world-class competition to Ellerslie’s track.
- International prestige: The event coincides with NZB’s National Yearling Sales, drawing international racing elites to Ellerslie who then head out to New Zealand Bloodstock’s Karaka sales complex the following day with hopes of purchasing the next generation of racing champions.
Off the track, the TAB Karaka Millions also offers a dynamic mix of entertainment, organisers say.
It includes the Tan in the City Style Spotter Competition, the return of an 850-strong contingent of Boys Get Paid followers to the track, all of whom will have their punting hopes pinned on what has famously become the country’s biggest punters club, and The Grand Tour Stables, a unique space for racegoers to discover the unexpected, including a secret rave room, a disco bronco, a wagering clairvoyant and more.
As the racing winds down, organisers say the night continues with the on-site Birdcage Bash afterparty in association with The Grand Tour Racing Festival, featuring a spectacular light show beneath the stars as well as live music from Ellerslie’s resident band AMOK and DJ Arii Jade, ensuring the celebrations carry on well into the night.
- TAB Karaka Millions event details: Gates open at 3pm; general admission starts at $50 (free entry for under-15s; senior citizen Gold Card general admission rate applies at the gate on the day). Private rooms and spaces are available for those seeking a more exclusive experience. For tickets and more information, visit https://ellerslie.co.nz/karaka-millions
