Harness racing is heading into new territory next year, with the first ever meeting at Taupo on January 26, 2026.
“We are all about growing our sport and Taupo as a hugely popular summer destination fits the bill perfectly,” says Harness Racing New Zealand’s Head of Racing and Wagering Matthew Peden.
“We are very keen to engage with new people and we know that there is a real demand for more grass track racing in the North Island.”
Peden believes the new initiative will be well supported by trainers, drivers and owners. The meeting will be run by Waikato Bay of Plenty Harness Inc (Cambridge).
After being approached by HRNZ, Racing Taupo was very receptive to the idea. It will be the first time in its 60-year history that it will host harness races.
“It’s a novelty for us,” says Taupo Racing Club President Terry Campbell, “it’s exciting and we will give it a try and see how it goes.”
The January date is seen as critical.
The meeting will be held on Auckland Anniversary Day, a public holiday in the region and it also coincides with Taupo’s huge annual concert weekend which sees thousands flock to the popular tourist town.
“The challenge for us is to capitalise on that big crowd in Taupo at the time and get them to the races,” says Peden.
The timing also works well for the Taupo Racing Club, according to Campbell, who was awarded a King’s Services medal for services to horse racing and governance in the 2025 New Year Honours
“Our biggest meeting is at the end of December and then it’s a month before the next one in February.”
Taupo often gets a big crowd at its meetings and prides itself on relaxed family-friendly race days .
“Our best crowd on our Cup day is 5000.”
So how does he think the idea of harness racing in such a galloping heartland will be received?
“Not too many people know about it now but the committee all decided in favour of it,” says Campbell, “and it’s another string to our bow.”
“I’m keen to get a mini grass track circuit around the North Island,” says Peden, “and hopefully this is the start of something.”
