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100 Ascot Avenue, Remuera, Auckland
- 09 524 4069
Work’s winding down. Your social life shouldn’t be.
The Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Races are a summer staple – fast racing, buzzing hospitality, great crowds and a party that goes well into the night.
Think of it as your classic raceday – equal parts glam and thrill – just with a summer’s evening twist.
The racing kicks off late afternoon and rolls into a golden-hour evening, setting the tone for one of Auckland’s favourite end-of-year events.
With six fast-paced races run back-to-back, this is racing’s answer to 20/20 cricket – short, sharp and packed with energy. Whether you’re trackside, catching the action from the bar, or just soaking up the buzz, it’s an evening that delivers.
And when the final horse heads home? The infamous Birdcage Bash takes over – transforming the trackside precinct into a post-race party to remember with sets from kiwi hit makers Jupiter Project and fan favourite DJ Clint Roberts.
Plus, for those with an eye for fashion, the Tan In The City Style Spotter Award is back – with a $500 prize for the person deemed the night’s best dressed.
Timings listed are approximate and subject to change.
The Barfoot & Thompson GLAM LOUNGE is returning to the races, coming to the rescue with complimentary hair and make-up touch-ups.
Get ready - Kiwi hitmakers Jupiter Project are headlining the night, dropping their signature mix of party anthems and feel-good beats to light up the Birdcage Bash after the last race.
* Entry is free to racegoers but entry conditions apply - learn more under 'Other Information'.
He’ll be spinning bangers under the stars - catch DJ Clint Roberts keeping the dance-floor energy high all night at the Birdcage Bash after the last race.
* Entry is free to racegoers but entry conditions apply - learn more under 'Other Information'.
Dressed to slay? Fashion judges will be roaming the course looking for some of the night’s best dressed and if you're one of them, you could be in to WIN.
If your photo is selected as a finalist, it will be posted in an album on our social media accounts post-event and the person whose photo gets the most reactions will win a $500 prize from Tan In The City (consisting of x10 Deluxe Spray Tan Pack, Magic Self Tan Mousse & Tan Glove).
PLUS there's a $49 "spot prize" tan up for grabs for someone who 'likes' or comments on the competition post.
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 we also ask no sneakers, jeans, jandals etc.
A dress code applies in most areas on course and for the on-site after party. Click the button to learn more.
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.
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.
Trackside access, good vibes, zero pressure
If you're looking for the party hot spot, this is the place
Private mini marquees perched above the action on the Champagne Lawn
If you’re needing a place to rest your hooves after a big night 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.
Learn more
