Ellerslie's where you’ll want to be on Tuesday 3 November 2026.
Auckland’s only Melbourne Cup event with live racing on the track, not just the screen.
New Zealand’s largest Melbourne Cup Day event returns to the ‘Big E’, bringing the thrill of live racing, top-tier hospitality, fashion, the iconic race from Flemington on the big screen and a party like nowhere else.
Whether you’re toasting with Champagne in a hospitality precinct, getting amongst in The Hill Lawn or spending the day your way in public areas on course, this is the Melbourne Cup Day experience Auckland talks about.
Timings are approximate and subject to change.
More 2026 event ticketing and hospitality options released soon!
Congratulations to Donna Adams!
By correctly picking Half Yours to win the 2025 Melbourne Cup, she went into the draw for our prize of two return airfares to Honolulu (ex Auckland) flying Hawaiian Airlines – and her name was randomly drawn as the winner.
Thanks to everyone who entered online and on course at Ellerslie.
Visit Hawaiian Airlines online
If you’re heading to Ellerslie for Melbourne Cup Day 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 Hotel, The 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.