Race Meeting

Autumn Racing Season Day 1

Sat 21 Mar 2026
11.40am - 5pm
165 Racecourse Road Riccarton
GA: Free Gate Entry

The Group 3, Donaldson Brown South Island Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes.

Family Fun Day with Children's Entertainment & Jnior Fashion Comp - All welcome - Free Gate Entry

First Race unconfirmed start time - 11.40am with 10 races concluding at 4.46pm.

Live music in the Birdcage between races.

Bars and Catering options available 

  • Balmerino Room & Restaurant (Ground Floor): Buffet lunch 12:30 – 3:00 pm, $45pp (member discount applies). Overlooks the birdcage with tote facilities and a bar—where great food meets a vibrant racing atmosphere

  • Nightmarch Room (Ground Floor): Relaxed bar area with hot ham buns, cabinet food, totes, and a large bar—perfect for casual gatherings.

  • Phar Lap Room (Level 1): Closed today for Private Function 

  • Hospitality Suites (Level 2): Private suites for 15+, with catering packages or custom menus and beverages on account. Pre-bookings required.

Entry to the Grand National Lawn (in front of the Promenade) is from Steadman Road. The Racecourse Road entry does not provide an access into this area.

Hospitality bookings...

BOOK A SUITE from $135pp

Enjoy top class racing from the comfort of your own suite. This fully catered package offers food, beverage package, race books and suite service steward all for one price per person. All of this plus the best views on course!

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Raceday dining...

BALMERINO ROOM

Dining is available in the Balmerino Room - $45 for a magnificent buffet meal. Bookings are not required.

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Key information

Free Gate Entry
Free gate entry for this event.
Ownership
We value our owners and it is our aim to ensure all owners, whether they are new to the industry or race-hardened veterans, enjoy watching their horse race.
How to find us
Riccarton Racecourse is located at 165 Racecourse Road, Broomfield, Christchurch.