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Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Races

  • 11 December 2025
  • Ellerslie Racecourse
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Buy tickets - $250pp
Buy tickets
ellerslie
Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Races

The Grove

Where the party starts and the track thunders past

Buy tickets - $250pp
Ellerslie Racecourse

The Grove

$250pp

Buy Tickets

Premium drinks, all-evening grazing, and front-row energy – this is how you do twilight racing right.

The Grove is where racing meets social season. Set in a prime outdoor location right beside the track, it’s the go-to spot for groups looking to mix racing action with a little indulgence.

You’ll kick things off with a glass of Leefield Station Rosé on arrival and graze your way through the evening with four rounds of food, all while enjoying a beverage package that keeps the good times flowing until the last race jumps.

With cocktail-style seating (and the option to upgrade to a reserved table of ten), The Grove is perfect for moving, mingling and soaking up the atmosphere – complete with a DJ and surprise drink activations along the way.

And when the last race is run? You’re just steps from the official afterparty inside The Birdcage — no taxi required.

 

Package includes:

  • A glass of Leefield Station Rosé on arrival to set the tone
  • Four curated food drops throughout the evening, designed by ATR Executive Chef Paul Barrett and crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients
  • A comprehensive beverage package featuring Leefield Station wines, Daniel Le Brun Méthode Traditionnelle Brut NV, local and imported beers, RTDs and non-alcoholic options, served until the start of the final race
  • The option to purchase Champagne at exclusive rates
  • A resident DJ providing the perfect soundtrack between races
  • A racebook for each guest
  • Racecourse general admission and access into The Grove
  • Betting facilities within the precinct for easy on-the-go punting
  • Cocktail-style furniture and unreserved seating, with the option to upgrade to a reserved table for 10
  • Access to The Birdcage Bash afterparty — no need for a taxi, you’re just steps away from it

 

Please note:

  • As The Grove is a social precinct, seating is unreserved and available on a first-in, first-served basis if you haven’t elected to purchase a reserved table.

 

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  • 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
    • 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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