TAB Karaka Millions

  • 24 January 2026
  • Ellerslie Racecourse

TAB Karaka Millions

When
24 January 2026
Start times
Gates open at 3:00pm
First race starts at 4:30pm
Where
Ellerslie Racecourse
Ellerslie Racecourse

Auckland’s biggest night of racing is back.

Six fast-paced races. Three million-dollar features. One legendary night.

TAB Karaka Millions is where world-class racing meets Auckland’s social scene – a high-energy twilight night at the races that brings together the best of sport, entertainment, fashion and hospitality, all in one epic summer evening.

Held on the eve of NZB’s National Yearling Sales, the TAB Karaka Millions draws a mix of international racing identities, racing purists, and partygoers alike.

And when the final race is run? The Birdcage Bash (in association with The Grand Tour) keeps the celebrations going into the night.

Whether you come for the thrills on the track, the social buzz, or the afterparty, this is one of those events you lock in early.

Timings listed are approximate and subject to change.

What's On

Afterparty's ON

If there's one thing outside the racing that the TAB Karaka Millions is known for, it's the Birdcage Bash (in association with The Grand Tour) and 2026's edition will be no exception.

Entry conditions apply. Please see "Other Information" for details.

What to wear?

This is racing as the sun goes down, so it’s a little more like what you might wear to a cocktail party.

Ladies - headpieces aren’t compulsory, but you’re still welcome to wear something in your hair. A headband, bow or even some fun hair clips or embelllishments will help heighten your outfit to a raceday level.

Gents – collared shirts are expected in hospitality precincts where there are a few no-nos thrown in too.

A dress code applies in most areas on course and for the Birdcage Bash after party.

Learn more

Over $5million in stakes

The TAB Karaka Millions race card is like nothing else - featuring multiple million-dollar races alongside some of the country’s top Group-level events.

With big stakes, top-class horses, and a twilight setting that brings it all to life, it’s easy to see why this is New Zealand’s ultimate night of racing.

TAB Karaka Millions Barrier Draw

Stay tuned for an update with details as to when 2026's barrier draws will be conducted.

Order of Entry

The race to the millions will start to heat up for would-be runners to make the fields of the TAB Karaka Millions 2YO & 3YO races.

Stay tuned for a link to the Orders of Entry.

Getting here

Free overnight raceday carparking is accessible via 16 Derby Downs Place.

Mobility / accessible parking, drop-offs and foot traffic should enter via 100 Ascot Avenue. All cars entering off this road will be need to exit the grounds via Mitchelson Street.

Learn more

Karaka Awaits

Following the TAB Karaka Millions at Ellerslie, NZB's National Yearling Sales Series - the flag-bearing sale for NZ breeders and the annual harvest of quality youngsters set for racetrack stardom - kicks off at their iconic Karaka Sales Centre, and you're invited.

Learn more

Tickets & Hospitality

Schedule (subject to change)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    15:00
    Name

    Gates open

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    $250,000 Cambridge Stud Almanzor Trophy (G3)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    $1,000,000 Elsdon Park Aotearoa Classic (L)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    $1,000,000 TAB Karaka Millions 2YO (L)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    $1,500,000 TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (L)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    0:00
    Name

    $700,000 Sistema Railway (G1)

  • Race
    TBC
    Start
    20:00
    Name

    Birdcage Bash in association with The Grand Tour starts in Cuvée

SkyCity Offer
Save 20% on accomodation

Trackside Today, SkyCity Tonight

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.

 

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    Major Partners