SkyCity Boxing Day Races

  • 26 December 2025
  • Ellerslie Racecourse
SkyCity Boxing Day Races 2024 Ellerslie

SkyCity Boxing Day Races

When
26 December 2025
Start times
Gates open at 11:00am
First race starts at 12:20pm
Where
Ellerslie Racecourse
Ellerslie Racecourse

Auckland’s Ultimate Boxing Day Tradition

Sun, racing, and real summer energy - it’s all happening at the SkyCity Boxing Day Races.

Christmas Day is for tradition. Boxing Day is for you.

Auckland’s biggest summer celebration returns – and whether you’re coming straight from the bach, rounding up the crew, or making it an annual catch-up, the SkyCity Boxing Day Races are your excuse to dress up, let loose and enjoy the best of summer at Ellerslie.

With top-class thoroughbred racing, a carnival-like atmosphere, and everything from chilled lawn vibes to bustling bars and hospitality options, there’s something for everyone – including free entertainment to keep the little ones happy and Fashions in the Field for the ultimate in off-track colour.

A rite of passage for many Aucklanders and a must-do on the social calendar, this is one tradition you’ll actually look forward to.

Timings listed are approximate and subject to change.

Tickets & Hospitality

Watch

Experience the SkyCity Boxing Day Races

SkyCity Boxing Day Races

What's On

The racing

10 races will play out on the track in between the day's entertainment, headed up by the G1 $500,000 Cambridge Stud Zabeel Classic.

2024's Race Results

Fashions in the Field

Expect as much rivalry on the runway as the racetrack as Boxing Day's traditional Fashions in the Field competition returns, offering great prizes for all.

Learn more

Free Family Fun

Free children's entertainment will keep the little ones entertained throughout the day.

Based in The Infield (centre of the racecourse), any ticketholder on course can get entry into this area to make the most of what's on offer.

Free Parking

Free overnight parking is available in the Infield Carpark via 16 Derby Downs Place.

To access the grandstand side of the racecourse, use the pedestrian tunnel under the track (do not cross the track). Note: the tunnel includes a short flight of stairs.

Accessible parking and drop-offs should use the entrance at 100 Ascot Avenue.

Getting Here

You Glow Girl

Thanks to our fashion partner Tan In The City, racegoers can get $5 off any tanning service at their salons.

To redeem, simply use the code ELLERSLIERACES25 when booking online or show your raceday ticket when in salon.

Book Now

Feature Races

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    Dunstan HorseFeeds Stayers Championship Final

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    Jimmy Schick Shaw's Wires Ropes Auckland Guineas (G2)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    Hallmark Stud Eight Carat Classic (G2)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    Cambridge Stud Zabeel Classic (G1)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    Stella Artois 1500 Championship Final

SkyCity Offer
Save 20% on accomodation

Trackside Today, SkyCity Tonight – Save 20%

If you’re heading to Auckland for the races and need a place to rest your hooves after a big day trackside, our partner SkyCity Auckland has you covered.

Racegoers enjoy an exclusive 20% off the flexible room-only rate at SkyCity Auckland hotels, with full change or cancellation flexibility until 4pm the day prior to arrival.

With three exceptional hotels – SkyCity HotelThe Grand by SkyCity, and Horizon by SkyCity – there’s something to suit every style.

To redeem, simply click the hotel links above for the discount to apply automatically, or enter the Rate Access / Corporate Code ATRACING in the “special code” box when booking.

    Our thanks to

    Major Partners