About Auckland Racing Club | Ellerslie Racecourse
Ellerslie Racecourse is Auckland’s historic thoroughbred racing venue and serves as the flagship track for Auckland Thoroughbred Racing (ATR). Racing has taken place here since 1857 (heritageetal.blogspot.com ), and the Auckland Racing Club was formed in 1874 to continue this tradition (heritageetal.blogspot.com ). Today the track boasts a modern StrathAyr all-weather turf surface (loveracing.nz ) and two grandstands (Ascot and Ellerslie) overlooking the lush green infield. The site’s gardens and landscaping are famed – even Queen Elizabeth II visited in 1953–54 – with “well laid out floral beds, ponds and a large variety of trees and palms” praised by racing historians (heritageetal.blogspot.com ). In 2021 the Auckland racing clubs merged into ATR, which highlights Ellerslie as “New Zealand’s premier track” (loveracing.nz ). Notable architectural highlights include a fully refurbished stable paddock (completed in 2018 for about $6 million) and the restoration of a 1913 mechanical totalisator as a central feature (haydnrollett.co.nz ). In addition to racing, Ellerslie hosts a year-round function space (the Ellerslie Event Centre) with 26 versatile rooms and full catering (loveracing.nz ). The center can accommodate roughly 1,200 standing (1,100 seated) for large indoor events (www-eur.cvent.com ). In short, Ellerslie combines rich heritage and grandstand glamour – dating back over 160 years – with modern facilities for both sport and special events.
Events and Programming
Ellerslie’s calendar is anchored by thoroughbred race days, which occur almost weekly during the Auckland season. The course stages major feature cards such as the Barfoot & Thompson Champion’s Day (March), the SkyCity Christmas Carnival (late December/New Year’s), the TAB Karaka Millions (January), and the Great Northern Steeplechase. The famous Auckland Cup race (first run in 1874) is now held in early March as part of a racing carnival (heritageetal.blogspot.com ). For example, Champion’s Day has been billed as “New Zealand’s richest ever raceday” (trackside.co.nz ). Regular Saturday races throughout spring and summer often include fashion and entertainment competitions (e.g. “Fashions in the Field”) to create a carnival atmosphere (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Fun for families is also built in – Boxing Day meetings typically feature an infield zone with free children’s activities, candyfloss stalls and live music (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ).
In recent years Ellerslie has also hosted occasional concerts and festivals on the infield. While racing is the main draw, the grounds have seen music events like reggae group The Black Seeds (March 2024) and the DJ festival “Deep Hard N Funky” (July 2023) (www.songkick.com ). Likewise, the on-site Ellerslie Event Centre (administration building) runs corporate and social events year-round – weddings, conferences, charity balls and more. Indeed, management actively diversified the venue’s use: patrons at Ellerslie have included motorcycle club rallies, Spartan race participants and rugby fan tours, all to supplement racing revenue (www.hospitalitybusiness.co.nz ).
Typical ticket prices vary by event. For general admission, Auckland Racing has offered early-bird prices around $20–$25 (rising to $30–$40 at the gate on big days) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Children under 15 enter free (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ), and seniors usually get a half-price discount at the gate. Reserved seating or members-stand access costs more (Ascot Stand passes run roughly $10–$50 extra on feature days by race category (loveracing.nz )). Flat-screen TVs and public address announcements help keep spectators informed of live odds and race results.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Ellerslie race days are sold through Auckland Racing’s official outlets. Most visitors buy advance tickets online via the Auckland Thoroughbred Racing website (where early-release prices are offered (www.aucklandracing.co.nz )), or purchase at the track on race day. A staffed ticket booth (located at 100 Ascot Avenue) handles purchase and pick-up of reservations (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). For major events it’s wise to buy early, as early-bird releases often sell out. On the day of racing, the on-site box office opens about an hour before the first race, and general-admission tickets may still be available for walk-up purchase. Memberships in the racing club also provide complimentary or discounted entry, but casual visitors can simply buy single-day tickets.
Ticket prices are tiered. As one example, Boxing Day Races general admission was listed at $20 (first-release special) and $35 at the gate (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). (Ascot grandstand access was sold separately at a higher price, around $10–$50 more depending on the day (loveracing.nz ).) In general, you’ll see race-day tickets ranging from about $20–$50 for adults, with children free or greatly reduced. Keep an eye on announcements: big racedays and festival events often have early-bird deals. If you need assistance buying or collecting tickets, staff at the Ascot Ave entrance can help – the Ticket Booth is right next to the main gates (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Door sales are usually cashless as well as card-friendly. Check Auckland Racing’s site or social media for specific race dates, gate opening times and presale dates.
Seating and Layout
Ellerslie’s layout features two major grandstands and large open areas. The Ascot Grandstand (on the southern side by Ascot Ave) is the private members’ tower (5 stories tall) – it has sweeping views of the entire course. Its top-floor New Zealand Room provides a panoramic vantage point (loveracing.nz ), while a ground-level bar (Piccolo’s) opens to the parade ring. Public access to Ascot Stand requires a special pass (members or purchased ticket).
The Ellerslie Grandstand (along the back straight) is the general public stand. It has covered seating and lounges on multiple levels. On feature days, the ground-floor Newmarket Room and second-floor Pakuranga Lounge serve casual dining and give easy access to private boxes (loveracing.nz ). These stands face the finish line area, so you see horses sprint past the winning post. For race viewing, general-admission ticket-holders can use the covered benches in this stand or stand on the concourse above.
Outside the stands are grassy lawn areas. These infield and lawn zones are great for a relaxed race-day picnic or to get closer to the track. In fact, general admission explicitly allows picnic rugs and folding chairs on the lawns (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Guests on the lawn have open views of the home straight; some spots allow spectators to be almost on top of the action. The nearby infield precinct (inside the track oval) sometimes opens to ticket-holders and is used for entertainment or hospitality marquees on big days. In box seating vs. lawn terms: covered stand seats give a dry, sheltered view, while the lawns offer the best “ear to the ground” horse racing experience.
For best views, consider your priorities: if you want shade and formal seating, head to the Ellerslie Stand (covered benches). If you crave thrills and don’t mind standing, try the trackside edge of the home straight or finish-line lawn. To see the whole track, higher levels or the Ascot Stand New Zealand Room (members’ area) are unbeatable (loveracing.nz ). In the Grandstand, avoid sitting too low in the middle row if possible (your view may be partly blocked). Everywhere has good sightlines, though – the track is relatively flat. There are no particularly “bad” seats; even on the lawns you get the live race sound. Acoustically, there is no amplification of horses, so being close is best for that “thunderous” feeling (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ).
Getting There and Parking
Ellerslie Racecourse is located at 100 Ascot Avenue, Remuera (a residential suburb just south of Auckland’s CBD). The best motorway route is via the Southern Motorway (SH1) to the Greenlane/Remuera exit (exit onto Ellerslie-Panmure Hwy). From the city center, take either the Greenlane or Remuera exit onto Ellerslie-Panmure Highway. Follow the racecourse signs from Ascot Avenue. Rideshare/taxis usually drop off at the main gate on Ascot Avenue (the ticket booth entrance) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ).
Driving and Parking: Ellerslie offers free parking to all racegoers. On race days and events, non-members should enter via Derby Downs Place (off Motions Road) and drive through a short tunnel into the infield carpark (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). (This is the big lot inside the track grounds.) Members of the racing club may use a reserved Ascot Avenue carpark with their membership badge (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Once parked, spectators walk through the pedestrian tunnel under the track to reach the stands. If you need to purchase or collect tickets, drop off at the Ticket Booth on Ascot Avenue first (rather than parking)\ (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ).
Note that a nearby roadside lot on the city side of the track is no longer used for spectators. Also, the Ascot Avenue entrance is one-way for cars entering: exit traffic flows out via Mitchelson Street (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). In practice, after the races the south-bound traffic exits toward Ellerslie on Mitchelson, so be prepared for one-way flows.
Public Transport: Ellerslie is very well-connected by train and bus. The nearest train stop is Greenlane Station (Southern/Eastern Line), about a 10–15 minute walk from Ascot Ave. Trains run regularly from Britomart and stop at Greenlane. From Greenlane Station, exit and follow the pedestrian path/signs toward Ellerslie; it’s an easy uphill stroll. Several frequent NYC bus routes travel down Ellerslie-Panmure Highway and Remuera Road, often within a short walk of the race gates. (For example, Route 70 from downtown has stops on Remuera Road near the course.) The official Auckland Transport journey planner can give exact routes, but many fans simply catch a train to Greenlane or hop on a city bus into Remuera and walk down.
Ride-sharing and Taxis: Rideshare drop-offs should use the main gate at 100 Ascot Ave. Rideshare drivers are familiar with the course address. On-site, a local taxi company (Auckland Co-op) even offers direct bookings to the race gates (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). For convenience, Dalton Avenue (opp. 100 Ascot) is usually the designated drop-off/collection point.
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: Upon arrival, staff will scan your tickets at the Ascot Avenue entrance. Bags may be checked (standard festival-type security). Once inside, you enter onto the Ascot side concourse of the main grandstand. Free water fountains are available to refill bottles. In line with race etiquette, the atmosphere is family-friendly and festive. Staff will direct visitors to seating areas or the infield if needed. There is no strict dress requirement (smart-casual is fine almost everywhere), but avoid beachwear in the stands.
Atmosphere: Ellerslie race days are generally pleasant and sociable. By day, the vibe is relaxed and carnival-like – think picnic blankets and picnic baskets alongside betting terminals. Some entertainment (bands or DJs) may play in an infield marquee or beer garden on big race days. You’ll notice fashion contests (hats and frocks) on feature days. The crowds usually range from 10–20,000 people on major days like Boxing Day or Auckland Cup; on normal Saturdays it may be a few thousand. Inside the stands you’ll hear race calls and cheering, and outside on the lawns you’ll hear hoofbeats roaring past.
Food and Drink: A variety of food and beverage outlets operate on race days. Both grandstands house cafes and bars: the Ellerslie Stand’s Newmarket Room (ground level) and Pakuranga Lounge (upper level) offer casual cafes and buffets (loveracing.nz ). The Ascot Stand has the Piccolo’s Bar (ground floor, with gourmet burgers) (loveracing.nz ). In addition, vendors line the concourses and infield selling New Zealand classics (gin & tonic, local beers, gourmet pies, sushi rolls, ice cream, etc.). There is also a TAB betting lounge (Winning Post) on the ground floor of Ascot Stand, where TAB account holders can watch races and bet. ATMs and EFTPOS are widely available. You are free to bring your own non-alcoholic drink and snacks: in fact, picnic baskets and folding chairs are expressly allowed on the lawns (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). (Simply no alcohol or glass bottles through the gates, and keep food in unopened containers.)
Facilities: Restrooms are located on every level of the grandstands, including accessible toilets near the Ascot entrance. There are coat-check and lost-–found services at the main office if needed. Race day programs and horse form guides are sold in the concourse. Merchandise booths occasionally appear (especially at feature events) selling club-branded gear. Mobile phone reception is generally good, so you can use betting apps or camera photos easily. Free Wi-Fi is not provided, so plan data usage accordingly. Overall, amenities at Ellerslie are modern and plentiful – from comfortable seating to a variety of food choices, you can spend the whole day here without leaving the venue.
Nearby Amenities
The suburb of Remuera offers plenty of options for pre- or post-event dining and stays. The Ibis Auckland Ellerslie Hotel (at Green Lane East, a few blocks from the racecourse) is the closest on-site accommodation – it even has a 24-hour bar for late-night drinks. A short drive or walk east on Greenlane/Remuera Road takes you to a variety of cafes, bakeries and ethnic eateries. For example, popular choices include Japanese and Korean eateries (tapas-style ramen and sushi), casual New Zealand cafes (flat whites and brunch fare), and Italian bistros on Remuera Road. Golf Lane, the main village center nearby, has bars and pubs for a pint before or after the races.
If you’re planning on dining near the track, it’s wise to book ahead for dinner on big race nights (some restaurants will fill up with race crowds). A handy strategy is to grab an early meal in Remuera or nearby Newmarket before heading to Ellerslie, especially for evening races. If you stay overnight, Remuera and adjacent Parnell/Newmarket neighborhoods have mid-range hotels and boutique B&Bs. Taxis and ride-shares back to central Auckland are available late at night; the city center is only about a 10–15 minute drive via motorway.
What Makes This Venue Special
Ellerslie Racecourse is cherished by Aucklanders for its rich history, beauty and ambience. It’s on a landscaped park-like site (complete with mature trees and ornamental ponds) that stood out even in the colonial era (heritageetal.blogspot.com ). Past governors and celebrities have praised its charm – even British royals admired its gardens (heritageetal.blogspot.com ). Unlike many modern tracks, Ellerslie maintains a historic feel: for example, its 1913 totalisator (the old mechanical betting indicator) was painstakingly restored during renovations (haydnrollett.co.nz ). At the same time, it keeps pace with today’s expectations (tilting recognition as NZ’s “premier track” on modern StrathAyr turf (loveracing.nz )).
The venue’s cultural importance is evident in its signature events. Race days here are as much social occasions as sporting contests: attendees often dress up (women in hats or frocks, men in jackets on feature days). On Christmas meetings you’ll see “Fashions in the Field” marquis and families picnicking with waveboards (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Over the decades Ellerslie has been the setting for many legendary NZ racing moments – Auckland Cup triumphs, thrilling finishes and local sporting lore. For example, there are stories of entire Royal Navy crews cheering a racehorse named “Nelson” to victory, reflecting the colorful local racing lore.
Economically and socially, Ellerslie is an Auckland institution. Its annual meet dates (Boxing Day, Auckland Cup Week etc.) draw thousands and generate significant betting and hospitality business. The club’s recent strategies underscore its community role: in 2020 the Event Centre even hosted a Spartan fitness race, motorcycle shows, rugby fan tours and music festivals (www.hospitalitybusiness.co.nz ), illustrating how embedded the venue is in local life. In short, Ellerslie is special because it bridges past and present – a heritage-rich racecourse where fans and families come together for entertainment. Both jockeys and visiting performers remark on its intimate, friendly vibe. Whether it’s the thunder of hooves under the Ascot grandstand or a DJ gig under the stars, Ellerslie offers an experience you won’t forget.
Visitor Tips and Information
• Accessibility: Ellerslie is wheelchair-friendly. Guests with mobility permits can park via Ascot Avenue (100 Ascot) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ) and enter close to the stands. Staff suggestions ahead of time can help; contact the club if you need special arrangements on race day (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). There are elevators/lifts in the grandstands, and accessible toilets on each level.
• Items to bring: A small fold-up chair or picnic rug is welcome in the lawn areas (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat and maybe a light jacket – the weather can change quickly. Umbrellas are okay in rainy weather. Sunglasses and earplugs (for the loudest finishes) can also make for a better day. You may pack sealed water and snacks for your picnic. Stay hydrated (the on-site hydration stations help) and comfortable.
• Dress Code: There is no strict dress code outside the Ascot Stand, but smart-casual is expected in the covered stands. On marquee race days (e.g. Spring Carnival, Lady’s Day) many people wear semi-formal or racewear fashion. (Thongs/flip-flops are generally discouraged inside the stands.) If you plan to enter the Ascot Grandstand, dressing up will fit in; otherwise, casual jeans and neat tops are fine.
• Tickets & Timing: Gates usually open about 10–15 minutes before the first race (often around 11:00 AM) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Arrive 30–60 minutes early on busy days to find your spot. Race programs and branded merchandise are sold at the entrances. Keep confirmation or printouts of any advance tickets handy for scanning. In case of wet weather, most Racedays go on as scheduled (covered seating is plentiful), but always check the racing authority’s website or social media for last-minute changes.
• General Advice: Plan your route: use Google Maps or the AT Planner to find the best train/bus connections (Greenlane Station is recommended for trains (www.aucklandracing.co.nz )). If driving, note the one-way flow: enter Derby Downs Place for parking (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ) and exit onto Mitchelson St. On busy days, allow extra time for post-race traffic. Leave valuables in the car or on you; the venue is generally safe but keep an eye on personal items during crowded events. Last, remember it’s a family outing – stay with your group, enjoy the sights and sounds of the track, and have fun betting (within reason)!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets cost for Ellerslie Racecourse events?
Ticket prices vary by event. For general admission, expect around $20–$35 for big race days (early-bird vs gate price) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Children under 15 usually enter free (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ), and seniors often pay half-price at the gate. Reserved grandstand or members’ stand seats cost more (Ascot Stand passes around $10–$50 extra on major days (loveracing.nz )). Always check the official Auckland Racing site for the exact pricing on each race day.
Where can I buy Ellerslie Racecourse tickets?
Tickets are sold online through Auckland Thoroughbred Racing’s official channels, and at the venue on race day. You can book your tickets on the ATR website when sales open (often months in advance). On race day, a ticket booth at the main gate (100 Ascot Ave) sells/collects tickets (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). It’s wise to buy ahead for popular days (early-bird prices sell out). If you forget, arrive early – on‐site sales are available until the first race begins.
Is parking available and is it free at Ellerslie?
Yes. Parking is free for race-goers. On race days, general public cars enter via Derby Downs Place, drive through the tunnel, and park in the infield car park (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Auckland Thoroughbred Racing members have a reserved lot off Ascot Avenue (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). After parking, walk through the tunnel to the track. (Tip: follow the one-way traffic flow, which exits via Mitchelson St (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ).)
How can I get to Ellerslie by public transport?
Ellerslie is well served by train and bus. Take an Auckland metro train to Greenlane Station on the Southern/Eastern line, then walk uphill to Ascot Ave (follow station signage to the races) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Multiple bus routes also run along Greenlane/Ellerslie-Panmure Road and Remuera Road (e.g. Route 70 from the CBD has stops near Ascot Ave). Check AT’s Journey Planner for the best route on your race day. No special shuttle is needed since the entrance is only a few minutes’ walk from these stops.
Are wheelchair and stroller-accessible facilities available?
Yes. Ellerslie provides accessible parking and viewing. Cars with mobility permits can use designated spaces via the Ascot Avenue entrance (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). The stands have ramps and lifts to upper floors, and all public areas (restrooms, concourses) are wheelchair-accessible. If you or a guest have special access needs, contact the racecourse a few days in advance so they can reserve parking or seating (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Medical and support staff are also on hand during major events.
What is the dress code at Ellerslie Racecourse?
For general areas, the dress code is smart-casual – there is no strict uniform. On regular racing days you’ll see everything from shorts and tees to summer dresses. However, if you plan to enter the Ascot Grandstand (members’ area) or attend a feature race, “smart casual” or business attire is expected (loveracing.nz ). On big days many attendees wear suits, dresses and hats (especially during morning events). Dress comfortably for the weather, and avoid beachwear (no thongs/flip-flops in the stands). Remember, part of the fun on major race days is dressing up!
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, with some restrictions. You are welcome to bring picnic food and unopened non-alcoholic beverages into the general admission areas (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). This means sandwiches, fruit, snacks and bottled water/soda are fine (just keep them sealed). Alcohol and glass bottles are not permitted through the gates. Many visitors set up picnics on the lawns, so feel free to bring a rug or folding chair (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). There are also plenty of food vendors on site if you’d rather buy meals or drinks.
What food and drink options are available on-site?
The racecourse has a wide range of eateries. Both grandstands have cafés and bars: the Ellerslie Stand’s Newmarket Room (ground floor) and Pakuranga Lounge (2nd floor) serve buffet/café-style meals (loveracing.nz ). The Ascot Stand offers Piccolo’s Bar (casual grill) on the ground floor (loveracing.nz ). Around the course you’ll find food stalls selling burgers, fish 'n' chips, hot pies, sushi, ice cream and desserts. There are also beer gardens and cocktail bars. Banking and TAB betting terminals are scattered throughout. In short, whether you want a sit-down meal, a snack, or just a cold beverage, you’ll find it on-site.
Are children allowed and do they get free entry?
Yes – Ellerslie warmly welcomes children. Anyone under 15 typically enters free when accompanied by an adult ticket-holder (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). There are usually family-friendly attractions on race days (like the free kid’s infield entertainment on Boxing Day (www.aucklandracing.co.nz )). Just note that strollers are allowed and there are accessible restrooms. Races are a safe, daytime activity – but young kids should be supervised around the railings.
Which areas offer the best race viewing?
Great views can be found in several spots. The covered Ellerslie Stand has bench seating facing the home straight – it’s comfortable and rain-sheltered (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Alternatively, as a general-admission visitor you can stake out any spot on the trackside lawns opposite the stands; this puts you right near the final bend and finish line for a thrilling close-up (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). For a high vantage, the upper levels of either stand (especially Ascot’s top floors) give a panoramic view of the whole circuit. In short: sit in Ellerslie Stand for shade, or bring a chair and watch from the grass for an old-fashioned race-day feel (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ).
Does Ellerslie host events other than racing?
Yes. Aside from horse racing, Ellerslie is used for occasional concerts, festivals and corporate events. In recent years it hosted music events like The Black Seeds (March 2024) and dance festivals (e.g. Deep Hard N Funky in 2023) (www.songkick.com ). The on-site Ellerslie Event Centre is also booked year-round for conferences, weddings, exhibitions and sports events (Spartan races, motorcycle rallies, etc.) (www.hospitalitybusiness.co.nz ). If a non-race event is listed on the ATR calendar, the whole property (stands, lawns and hall) can be used to accommodate the audience.
Can I place bets at Ellerslie?
Absolutely – wagering is part of the experience. The New Zealand TAB operates tote terminals on-site, and race odds are displayed on large screens in the stands. You can bet at TAB kiosks or via the mobile app right from your seat. The Ascot Stand ground floor has a “Winning Post” lounge where TAB members gather (you may watch the races inside if you have an account). Around the concourses there are plenty of betting windows and call-stations. (Note: you’ll need a TAB account or cash for in-person betting.)
What time do races usually start, and when do the gates open?
Race start times vary by program, but typically the first race kicks off around noon (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). Gates usually open about 60–90 minutes before the first race (often 11:00 AM) to let spectators settle in. For example, a big Champions Day had gates opening at 11:00 AM with racing from 12:15 (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). If you have general admission, arriving early means you can choose your preferred spot. Always check the official racing schedule for exact times on the day you’re attending.
Where is the drop-off point or ticket office?
The main drop-off and ticketing point is at the Ascot Avenue entrance (100 Ascot Ave). If you need to be dropped off by taxi or rideshare, that is the address. The ticket booth (for collecting or buying tickets) is right at this entrance (www.aucklandracing.co.nz ). After that, parking is through Derby Downs Place. In short: ask your driver to pull up at the corner of Ascot Ave so you can access the Ticket Booth and grandstand gates immediately.
Are there nearby hotels or accommodations?
Yes. The closest is the ibis Auckland Ellerslie hotel on Green Lane East, just a few blocks away. It’s connected by a footbridge to the racecourse grounds. Other nearby options include mid-range hotels and motels in Remuera and Newmarket (5–10 minutes’ drive away). Many visitors to late-night races choose to stay in central Auckland (Ponsonby or CBD) and catch a taxi/UBER back. Note that on big race weekends, local hotels may book up early, so plan ahead if you want to stay nearby.
