Want to get involved in Harness Racing? Here's how

Harness racing ownership is flexible, fun, and accessible to everyone. Whether you want to start small with a group of friends or dive in as a full owner, there’s an option that’s just right for you.

• Syndicate: Want to start small but still get a piece of the action? Joining a syndicate is a fantastic way to own a share of a horse without going all in. Plus, it’s more fun when you’re celebrating as a group!
• Partnership: Perfect for a group of friends or racing enthusiasts looking to share the experience and excitement. You’ll all enjoy the wins—and the fun—together.
• Sole Ownership: If you want full control and a personal connection to your horse, sole ownership is for you. You’ll manage everything, from choosing races to working closely with trainers—it's the ultimate harness racing experience.

Owning a harness racehorse is a journey packed with excitement, rewards, and unforgettable moments. Here’s what it looks like:

• Step 1: Choose Your Ownership Path: Decide whether you want to jump into a syndicate, share the ride with friends, or go all-in with sole ownership.
• Step 2: Find Your Horse: Work with a trainer or mate to find the perfect horse that matches your goals, whether it’s a young up-and-comer or an experienced racer.
• Step 3: Experience Race Day Like Never Before: Feel the adrenaline rush as your horse heads to the track! Owners get exclusive access and the best seats in the house.
• Step 4: Celebrate the Wins: Share in the joy of every race, whether it’s taking home prize money or simply celebrating the journey of your horse’s success.

Next Gen is Harness Racing New Zealand’s innovative ownership program, designed to welcome a new generation of racehorse owners. It’s about making ownership accessible, rewarding, and fun for first-time owners, young enthusiasts, and groups.

• Accessible Ownership: Affordable entry options and ownership groups make it easy to get started.
• Exclusive Rewards: Compete for bonuses like $50,000 in the Harness Million races or $5,000 for a horse’s second race start.
• Emerging Trainers: Partner with rising trainers who bring fresh energy and passion to the sport.
• Next Generation Sires: Invest in horses sired by young, promising stallions shaping the future of harness racing.
• Vibrant Community: Join a supportive group of owners passionate about racing and events.

The Harness Racing Cadet Programme has produced top-tier talent for nearly 50 years. It’s the perfect place to start your career, whether you aim to become a driver, trainer, or stablehand. Cadets work toward formal NZQA qualifications that equip them with the skills and knowledge to succeed.

• • Qualifications range from NZ Equine Certificate in Equine Level 2 (Equine Skills for stablehands) to NZ Certificate in Equine Level 4 (Harness Racing Driver or Trainer). Breeding qualifications are also available.
  • Completing the qualifications and earning your racing license typically takes 3-4 years.
  • Off-the-job training includes classroom sessions and field days covering driving techniques, horse care, anatomy, nutrition, and more.
  • On-the-job training while working in the industry, allows you to gain practical experience, earning credits for unit standards like grooming, driving in trials, and stable management. You’ll be supported by HRNZ training advisors and your employer to ensure you meet industry standards.
  • The Cadet of the Year competition challenges cadets in theoretical and practical skills, with regional and grand final events culminating in the title being awarded at the Annual New Zealand Harness Racing Awards.

For students interested in harness racing, the Gateway and Star Programmes offer an exciting opportunity to start your education early. These programs are designed for high school students who are passionate about horses and want to pursue a future in the equine industry. Through this programme, senior students (Years 11 to 13+) can complete equine-related unit standards while still in school, gaining valuable skills and knowledge that help pave the way for a future in harness racing.

If you’re ready to dive into the exciting world of harness racing, we’re here to help. Whether you’re starting as a cadet, a stablehand, or looking to progress as a driver or trainer, our programmes are designed to set you on the path to success.

• Contact Our Education Team: We’ll help you find the right course and career path for your goals.
• Find a Stable: Our team will assist you in finding a position within a stable where you can begin your training.
• Join the Cadet Programme: Start your journey to becoming a professional in harness racing with the support of experienced trainers and mentors.