New Zealand’s racecourse industry professionals gathered in Tauranga this week for a national conference focused on track safety, performance, and innovation.

The event was hosted by the New Zealand Racecourse Managers Association (NZRMA) at Tauranga Racecourse over three days.

It highlighted the work carried out behind the scenes by racecourse managers and industry specialists, responsible for maintaining tracks meeting the demands of thoroughbred and harness racing.

The programme featured a mix of presentations, project updates, and research into turf and track performance.

It also included discussions on race day incident response, along with practical demonstrations covering irrigation systems, turf care, and specialist machinery.

Delegates visited racecourses and facilities across Tauranga and Cambridge.

NZRMA chair Jason Fulford said the conference highlighted the depth of expertise and commitment within New Zealand’s racecourse community.

“Racecourse managers play a critical role in the success and safety of racing in New Zealand.”

He said their work often happened behind the scenes, but was essential to ensuring safe and consistent racing surfaces for horses and participants right around the country.

“This conference is an important opportunity for industry professionals to share knowledge, discuss innovation and research, and continue lifting standards across our venues.”

The conference also recognised excellence within the industry through the presentation of several annual awards including The PGG Wrightson Turf Emerging Racecourse Manager Award, the NZRMA Rising Star Award and the NZRMA Contribution to Racing.

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) head of tracks and infrastructure Tim Lambert said the awards recognised the dedication and contribution of people working across racecourse management in New Zealand.

“These awards recognise the people who consistently go above and beyond to support racing in New Zealand, whether through emerging talent, leadership, innovation or long-standing contribution to the industry.”

He said the wider professionalism and pride shown across the sector played a vital role in the long-term health of racing infrastructure.

“The commitment shown by racecourse managers and their teams around the country is incredibly important to maintaining safe, high-performing racing venues and supporting the future of the sport.”