3 Nov
-
100 Ascot Avenue, Remuera, Auckland
- 09 524 4069
SkyCity New Year's Day Races - Auckland’s go-to for 1 January fun
Still in holiday mode? Keep the good vibes going at the SkyCity New Year’s Day Races – a local favourite for families, visitors and anyone sticking around Auckland on 1 January.
Whether you’re entertaining out-of-towners, wrangling the kids or just want a cruisy day outdoors, this is an easy win.
There’ll be a full day of live racing, great food and drinks, and plenty of free children’s entertainment to keep the little ones busy (see details below).
It’s a stress-free way to spend the first day of the year, with space to spread out, sit back and enjoy the sunshine.
You can pre-book a shared or private hospitality option – or simply roll in with a picnic and make the most of our relaxed General Admission areas.
You don’t need to go far or plan anything elaborate. Just round up your crew and make the most of one of Auckland’s most laid-back – but entertaining – day’s of racing. Because this year, the best way to start 2027 might just be right here at Ellerslie.
Under 15s get FREE general admission when accompanied by an adult.
Timings listed are approximate and subject to change.
Located in our general admission space on the Newmarket Lawn, little ones will enjoy FREE use of a bouncy castle and swingball sets, plus organised games and activities from Kelly Sports including an inflatable arena for football and other ball games, an inflatable throwing / target wall, giant garden games such as cornhole, jenga, Connect 4 and smaller activities for the youngest visitors and face painting. Plus! Under 15s get free admission into General Admission areas on course (no ticket required).
Free overnight event 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 need to exit the grounds via Mitchelson Street.
Thanks to fashion partner Tan In The City, racegoers can get $5 off any tanning service at their salons.
To redeem, simply use the code ELLERSLIERACES26 when booking online or show your raceday ticket when in salon.
Racegoers are encouraged to embrace the summer holiday season and dress in celebration of that.
A dress code applies in most precincts on course with a tidy standard of dress otherwise expected.
The tie-up stalls at Ellerslie are open for everyone to enjoy a close-up look at the horses.
For everyone’s safety, please stick to the white-pebbled public accessways when you’re in this area and avoid entering any restricted areas unless you have the required accreditation.
Enjoy a relaxed day at the races - free entry on majority of racedays
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 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.
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