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Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Races

  • 11 December 2025
  • Ellerslie Racecourse
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Buy tickets - $89pp (first release)
Buy tickets
ellerslie
Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Races

The Birdcage

If you're looking for the party hot spot, this is the place

Buy tickets - $89pp (first release)
Ellerslie Racecourse

The Birdcage

First release $89pp

Buy Tickets

The Birdcage is back – and you’re going to want to be in it.

If you’re into trackside energy, top-notch people-watching and any excuse to let loose before the year wraps up, this is your precinct.

Located within the open, social space of Cuvée – right next to the real Birdcage and opposite the winning post – you’re set for a front-row raceday experience with room to roam and dance as the evening heats up.

You’ll get a drink on arrival, a racebook to keep you in the game, and food available to purchase when you’re ready to refuel.

Then, when the final horse heads home, The Birdcage flips into the official Birdcage Bash afterparty zone with live music turning it up ’til late.

Rally the crew. Dress like you’ve got plans. And get ready to go all in on party season.

The Birdcage

Your Birdcage experience includes:

  • Drink on arrival

  • Access to a cash bar featuring RTDs, Champagne & sparkling wine, still wines, local and imported beers, and non-alcoholic options

  • Food available to purchase from within the precinct

  • Betting facilities

  • Racecourse general admission and entry into The Birdcage precinct

  • A racebook so you can make your picks wisely

  • The best part? You don’t have to go anywhere once the last race is run. The official Birdcage Bash afterparty kicks off right here.

 

Please note:

  • This precinct is R18
  • There is limited, unreserved seating available throughout the space on a first-in, first-served basis

Buy Tickets
  • Other Information
    • On-site parking is free and accessed through Derby Downs Place
    • All bars close shortly after the last race with the exception of The Birdcage Bash in Cuvée
    • Entry into The Birdcage Bash afterparty in Cuvée is free for racegoers, R18, dress code applies, intoxicated and disorderly persons not permitted or tolerated, entry subject to capacity
    • Auckland Thoroughbred Racing encourages responsible drinking and intoxicated persons will not be granted entry to Ellerslie Racecourse
    • A dress code applies in hospitality areas. Please click here for more information
    • Tickets are non-refundable and prices include GST. A separate booking fee of $2.00 per ticket will also apply upon purchase
    • Promotional photographs, social media content & film footage will be taken at this event. By entering the racecourse, event-goers consent to use of their image by the Club & New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing for promotional purposes
    • Event terms & conditions apply. 

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