Background Basics

In 2020, the Racing Industry Act was introduced to revitalise New Zealand’s struggling horse racing sector. According to the Minster of Racing, the Rt Hon Winston Peters, the industry has the potential to become a significant contributor to New Zealand’s economy.

 

The act established New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) - a new governing body with the power to take over privately owned racecourses across the country. Fourteen racecourses were identified for possible sale to “cash up” the industry (a move some have called a land grab).  One of these is Avondale Racecourse.

 

While the legislation requires recognition of existing community use of the land and community consultation around the transfer, the Avondale community has had to fight to be heard.

 

On this site, you’ll learn why this land matters to us and what’s at stake if it’s lost to intensive, top-down development.

 

Our Concern

 

Plans to sell off the racecourse for intensive housing are unfolding behind closed doors.  There is growing concern that:

 

• Public consultation is being sidestepped

• Community needs are being overlooked

• Corporate interests are taking priority

 

Our Vision

 

Any decisions must reflect the needs, voices, and aspirations of Avondale’s people.  If the land is to be sold, we call for a comprehensive, forward-thinking precinct plan that:

 

• Acknowledges the community’s stake

• Retains significant green space

• Delivers lasting benefit to the broader Avondale community

 

We believe this land can serve as a model for inclusive, sustainable urban development - not just another lost opportunity.