July Sponsors!
ITM/GIB Raceday – Racing Returns to Ruakaka!
After a six-month break, racing is finally back at Ruakaka!
Join us on Saturday 11 July for a fantastic afternoon of winter racing, featuring the iconic ITM/GIB Whangarei Gold Cup.
Enjoy thrilling thoroughbred action, a great trackside atmosphere, and FREE general admission — the perfect winter day out with friends, family, or workmates.
Gates Open
Approx. 11.00am
First Race: 11.55am
Last Race (of 8) : 4pm
(Race times and final programme to be confirmed race week)
What to Expect
🏇 Exciting winter racing action
🍻 Bars and TAB facilities
☕ Bean on the Scene coffee cart
🍴 Bayview Cafés
🎁 Mid-Winter Xmas Lunch option (Bookings essential - see below)
🌿 Indoor and outdoor seating areas
🎟️ FREE general admission
Dress Code
Smart casual recommended — please dress for the weather conditions.
Transport & Parking
Free parking is available on course.
FREE return raceday buses will operate from Whangārei, with pick-up times confirmed once race times are finalised.
Current pick-up points include:
- 10.00am Kamo Club
- 10.05am Kamo Hotel
- 10.15am Kensington Tavern
- 10.25am Rose Street Bus Terminal
- 10.35am Judge House of Ale
Additional pick-up points may be available for larger groups — contact the club office to arrange.
Food, Drinks & Facilities
Bars, TAB betting, Bayview Cafés and the Bean on the Scene coffee cart will be operating from approximately 11.30am.
EFTPOS is available at selected bars and betting facilities.
Please note there are no credit card facilities on course.
Ruakaka Racecourse is a strictly NO BYO Alcohol venue.
Important Information
This is an outdoor event and is weather dependent. Timings and available facilities may change if required.
Please read the Terms & Conditions of Entry in the About section of this website.
For further information:
📞 09 432 7249
📧 info@ruakakaracing.co.nz
Book your Mid Winter Xmas Lunch today!
Mid Winter Xmas Lunch
Get into the festive spirit with our popular Mid-Winter Christmas Lunch in the Beachside Bar — a fun and relaxed way to enjoy raceday in style.
Perfect for work groups, friends, racing fans, and social clubs looking for a great winter outing.
Package Includes:
✨ Reserved table seating
🎅 Christmas-themed atmosphere
🍽️ Delicious Christmas buffet lunch
📘 Official racebook
🍷 Welcome drink
🎉 Spot prizes
💰 TAB betting facilities and cash bar in the lounge
Tables available for groups of 8 or 10. Smaller groups may be seated at shared tables.
Tickets
$70 per person
$60 per member
🎟️ Numbers are limited — bookings essential.
📍 Ruakaka Racecourse – Beachside Bar
📅 Saturday 11 July
🕰️ Doors open time TBC