Events at Alexandra Park, Greenlane

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09 October 2021 Saturday / 06:00 PM

Alexandra Park, Greenlane

About Alexandra Park

Alexandra Park is Auckland’s historic trotting track and multi-purpose events venue run by the Auckland Trotting Club. It has been the centre of harness racing in the region since the first trotting races were run on the site in 1842 (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Today it remains the largest harness-racing circuit in New Zealand’s North Island, staging about 31 race meetings each year (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). The park includes modern amenities like a grandstand (the Centennial Stand), multiple function rooms and dining bars, but its character is steeped in racing tradition: legendary pacers like Cardigan Bay started their careers here, and Cardigan Bay’s final resting place is on the grounds (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Over the decades Alexandra Park has added layers of heritage — from the 1923 rebuild of its grandstand after a cyclone, to the 1988 Centennial Stand and the Noel Taylor Trotting Hall of Fame (opened 1997) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). It also remains synonymous with community racing, with popular themed race nights (e.g. Christmas carnival, Oaks & Derby) that have become local traditions. The site even includes a training base for the Auckland Blues rugby team (added in 2014) and plans for a large urban-village development (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). All this makes Alexandra Park unique: it’s not just a sports venue, but an Auckland institution where historic trotting meets modern entertainment and social events.

Events and Programming

Alexandra Park is best known for its *Harness Racing* meetings. The Auckland Trotting Club runs most Thursday and Friday night races of the year on this anti-clockwise track. Racing under lights has been a hallmark since the 1950s (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Aside from regular meet-ups, Alexandra Park hosts major racing carnivals and charity events. For example, it historically staged the Auckland Trotting Cup and prestigious series like the Oaks & Derby Festival. In late November and December it holds its festive “Christmas at the Races” evenings with Christmas-themed prizes and costumes. Race nights typically feature food, TAB betting and sometimes local entertainment alongside the races, more like a festival than just sport. In recent years Alexandra Park has broadened its calendar with a wide variety of community and cultural events. Live music concerts of various genres have been held (for example, saleable “New Year Jams” holiday concerts, ABBA tribute gospel shows, Hip-Hop & RnB nights and acoustic cover gigs) (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). There have also been night markets and food festivals (Eats & Beats night markets with food stalls and DJs), dancing and drag bingo parties, quiz nights and vintage fairs. The venue frequently hosts Pacific Island cultural nights (Poly Proud night, Kapa Haka performances, Tongan Fiefia nights) (www.eventfinda.co.nz), Polynesian dance and fashion shows, and community events like robotics competitions and hospital fundraisers. Many of these are one-off or annual gatherings, often advertised locally. In short, Alexandra Park’s programming is year-round and eclectic: besides harness racing, you might enjoy a community concert, gala banquet or corporate function at this venue. Large indoor spaces (the Tasman or Lyell rooms) handle weddings, conferences or school balls, while the sheltered outdoor “Stables” marquee can stage big cocktail events (capacity up to ~2,000 standing) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Smaller lounges (President’s Suite, boardroom, The Alex Bar) are used for business meetings or casual gatherings. On race nights the on-site Alex Bar & Eatery and TAB combine sports-bar atmosphere with café dining trackside (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Whatever the event, ticket prices and formats vary (see next section). Concert tickets will be sold per show (often modestly priced for small productions), while race-night entry and hospitality can range from basic trackside admission up to premium dining packages.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Alexandra Park events are usually sold through the venue’s official channels. For race meetings and concerts, you can typically buy tickets on the Alexandra Park website or by phone/venue enquiry at least a few weeks before the event (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Subscription to the venue’s newsletter is recommended for announcements and exclusive presales. All ticket purchases are legally binding (see *Ticketing Terms*) and subject to availability. Importantly, **tickets are not mailed or emailed in advance** – you must collect them in person on the event day. The booking confirmation (print-out or phone reference) will specify where to pick up your tickets or wristbands (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). When you arrive, present your confirmation and ID. Organisers may ask for photo ID if names are on the tickets, so plan to bring ID even for friends whose names appear. Once collected, your ticket may be a wristband or printed pass; keep it on at all times once inside (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). There is usually a small service fee for online purchases as part of the transaction. Prices always include NZ GST (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Typical costs vary by event: harness race meeting entry might be under $10–$15, whereas concert tickets could range from, say, $20 to $60 (this is very event-dependent and not fixed). There are often cheaper seats (open trackside) and more expensive hospitality packages (private rooms, dinner seating in Top of the Park or Tasman areas). If in doubt, call Alexandra Park’s office to confirm ticket options. Last-minute or door sales may be possible for some events if not sold out, but popular concerts or racing carnivals can sell out in advance. When booking a hospitality package (like a table or suite at a race event), note that a deposit may be required and the main contract refers to “hospitality tickets” for those areas (www.alexandrapark.co.nz) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). These packages often include food and drink, whereas standard admission usually does not. All ticket buyers must be aged **18 or over** (www.alexandrapark.co.nz), so minor children cannot attend events, even with supervision.

Seating and Layout

Alexandra Park’s facility is a mix of grandstand, function rooms and open marquee spaces. On race nights there is a traditional grandstand (centennial stand behind the finish line) and adjoining small stands, plus trackside lawns and terraces. Trackside seating is mostly unreserved “first come, first served” – arriving earlier means closer view of the horses entering from the tunnel and finishing line. Priority views often come from the edge of the track itself, or from Tier 1 of the stand. (Conversely, the highest seats in the back row have a broader overview but are farther from the action and may be partly open-air.) For other events (concerts, conferences, etc.), the action usually happens indoors. Major indoor rooms include the **Tasman Room** and the **Lyell Creek Lounge**, plus smaller lounges and boardrooms. The Tasman Room is the largest indoor hall, a bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows and ground-floor or balcony views. It can be set up in theatre style for **900** people, or as a banquet hall (550 guests) and cocktail area (about 1,200 standing) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). The adjacent Top of the Park (upper level) is a more intimate hall (about 250 seats theatre-style (www.alexandrapark.co.nz)) with sweeping vistas of the entire track – ideal for gala dinners or stage presentations. The Lyell Creek Lounge holds roughly 200 seated (or 425 cocktail) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Other areas (President’s Suite, boardroom) are for smaller gatherings. Unique viewing spots include the second-floor balconies and “Top of the Park” lounge, which overlook the whole course. Outdoors, a large covered space called **The Stables** (an all-weather tent area) can accommodate up to 900 for sit-down events or 2,000 standing (www.alexandrapark.co.nz) – this is where open-air concerts or large market festivals might be held. Acoustics in the indoor halls are generally suitable for speeches and amplified music. For any seated event, the venue will specify if it’s reserved seating or general entry. In any case, the best seats (for racing or shows) are usually near the stage or track; corners or far back rows might be less ideal.

Getting There and Parking

Alexandra Park is located at **Corner Greenlane West and Manukau Road, Greenlane (Epsom), Auckland 1051**. It’s in central Auckland’s inner-ring suburbs, about 15 minutes by car from the CBD or 20 minutes from the airport when traffic is normal (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). The main entrances for visitors are off Greenlane West and off Campbell Crescent (just south of Manukau Road) – bus and road signs often direct to “Auckland Showgrounds/Alexandra Park”. By car, the venue is easily reached via SH1 motorway (take the Greenlane (Pah Road) exits). On-site parking is ample and generally **free on race/event days for attendees** (www.alexandrapark.co.nz) (djentertainment.co.nz), with enough space for hundreds of cars. (Note that parking is managed separately for archery events at the adjacent ASB Showgrounds – during big A&P Show events or concerts, a special $15 parking charge applies for access to the Alexandra Park lots (www.alexandrapark.co.nz).) There are two main car park entry points: one on Campbell Crescent off Manukau Road, and a second on Greenlane West (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Parking attendants often guide you to a spot during major events. If not driving, multiple public transport links serve the area. Frequent **bus** services run along Greenlane and Manukau Roads. For example, routes 30, 70 (the OuterLink), 321 and others stop within a few blocks (at.govt.nz). From downtown, buses like the 70/30 run every 10–20 minutes and take roughly 20–35 minutes to Greenlane/Manukau, with a short 2–10 minute walk to the venue (at.govt.nz). The nearest **train** station is Greenlane Station (on the Southern and Onehunga lines) – it’s about a 1.5 km walk (or a short bus ride on 650/321) from the park. Specifically, trains from Britomart to Greenlane run often, and from there it’s roughly a 15–20 minute walk (down Greenlane West and across Campbell Cres) to the entrance shown on your ticket (at.govt.nz). When planning your trip, remember that evenings can be busy. If you take a rideshare or taxi, the normal drop-off is along Greenlane West or Campbell Crescent. (Confirm the current recommended drop zone with the venue if needed.) For late-night departures, the OuterLink still runs around midnight, but frequency is reduced. It’s wise to pre-book a taxi or commute via trains (Greenlane Station) if staying late at a big concert or race night.

Inside the Venue

On arrival, you’ll pass entrance security and ticket collection points. Guards may check IDs and confirmation before issuing your wristbands or tickets for that day (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). After that, you can move between the public areas. Helen, do not bring large backpacks or outside food/drink – Alexandra Park’s policy is strict about no outside alcohol or catering (www.alexandrapark.co.nz), and entry staff will enforce this. Photography with phones or cameras is generally allowed for personal use (no professional tripods/studio lighting without approval). [[FN: By NZ law, the venue will also take official photos or video at events.]] For food and drink, the main on-site option is *The Alex Bar & Eatery*. This sports-café-bar hybrid opens from early morning (8am) to late night (11pm weekdays, midnight on weekends) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner fare – expect classic Kiwi café meals and bar snacks – with a large TAB betting lounge and several TV screens. The Alex is conveniently adjacent to the track and function areas, so on race nights you can sit in a lounge chair with a beer and still watch the race on TV or through the windows. Additional bars and waiter service might be available during special events inside the Tasman and Top-of-Park rooms or at marquee functions. Food stalls or small vendors (e.g. food trucks, dessert carts) may appear during outdoor market events or big concerts. Outside alcohol is not permitted; you must buy alcoholic beverages from the venue’s bars (fully licensed until midnight). Restrooms are located within each building (Tasman Room and function areas) and are well-marked – more than enough for crowds. A first-aid station is usually staffed during major events. Note also that smoking is banned **except** in designated outdoor smoking areas (ask staff) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz); vaping rules follow suit. There is no cloakroom or coat check, so carry jackets or valuables with you. Throughout Alexandra Park, mobile phone coverage (and 4G data) is usually very good. The venue does not advertise comprehensive free Wi-Fi, and the *Ticketing Conditions* mention that any internet provided to guests is “as-is”, so it may be unreliable (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). (Typically, corporate event organizers can request Wi-Fi, but general visitors should not depend on it.) Outlets for plugging in devices are available only in certain meeting rooms or behind the bar; there’s no public charging station in the racetrack areas. Ride-hailing apps (Uber/Zoomy) usually work fine from within the venue.

Nearby Amenities

The neighbourhood around Alexandra Park is mostly calm residential streets, but several eateries, shops and hotels are a short distance away: just a few blocks north is Greenlane Shopping Centre (on Greenlane East) with cafés and takeaways. Within walking distance are casual bars and restaurants on Manukau Road. For example, the Greenlane Gastropub (east on Campbell Crescent) is a popular pub – and Cornwall Park Bistro a little further east – though note these spots may close early on empty nights. If you’re hungry before the show, consider grabbing a quick bite from a nearby takeaway or bakery. *Inside* Alexandra Park is often your best bet for food; the Alex Bar & Eatery will serve a full sit-down meal or coffee/cake before racing – it’s advisable to *book a table* on busy nights via their site or phone. If you need petrol or an ATM, the closest service station and banks are a few blocks south on Manukau Road or along Greenlane West. The venue itself does not have an ATM on premises (bring some cash if you plan to place betting vouchers or pay smaller vendors). For late-night travel after an event, remember that Auckland’s late buses on Greenlane typically run until about 12 am only (the last OuterLink usually leaves the city around midnight). After that, taxis or rideshares are the main option; rideshare drivers know Alexandra Park’s entrance. If you’re staying overnight, the nearest hotels are on Great South Road or in Remuera/Parnell (2–3 km away). Notable local hotels include the Crowne Plaza on Greenlane, and some motels in nearby Ellerslie. Downtown Auckland and the airport are 10–20 minutes away by car for more accommodation choices.

What Makes This Venue Special

Alexandra Park stands out for its century-plus legacy in Auckland. It’s not just a generic stadium – it’s the home of the region’s oldest trotting club (established 1890) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz) and has witnessed many historic racing moments. Under the lights here in the 1950s trotting became a beloved nightlife tradition, and many famous Standardbred horses have raced (and retired) on this track. For example, the champion pacer Cardigan Bay (*1953–1988*) famously began his career here before being sold overseas, and when he died he was returned to Auckland and buried at Alexandra Park (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). That lore gives the place a shrine-like quality among racing fans. Architecturally, Alexandra Park combines old and new. Its Centennial Stand (opened 1988) was once called “one of the best facilities of its kind in Australasia” (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). The Noel Taylor Hall of Fame (1997) attracts visitors interested in trotting history. Newer additions, like the Top of the Park event space and a luxury bar, show how the venue has modernised. Moreover, the park is currently evolving into a mixed-use precinct – plans approved in 2014 envision 700+ new apartments and shops on the site (www.alexandrapark.co.nz), making Alexandra Park a focal point for local development. Culturally, the race nights here are a piece of local Auckland life. Longstanding events like Oaks & Derby, and the Auckland Cup (NZ’s premier harness race), draw crowds who dress up (sometimes in race-day fashion) and enjoy community spirit. Non-racing events at Alexandra Park also have a grassroots charm: e.g. at “Poly Proud Night” or the Reggae concert, it feels like an indoor festival framed by the trotting track. Artists and organizers love the venue’s flexibility – it easily converts from horse-track to concert-hall, and the helpful staff adapt services (sound, lighting, catering) to each show. In short, Alexandra Park is cherished for marrying sport and social life. It’s a rare place where locals can go from a day at the races into an evening dinner-cocktail event without leaving the grounds. The venue’s blend of historic pedigree, panoramic views, and Auckland-centred community events makes it more than just a field – it’s a genuine Auckland tradition and landmark that serves both people and ponies.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: Alexandra Park is wheelchair-friendly in the main areas. Entrances to function spaces and bars have ramps, and there is lift access to upper floors (e.g., to reach “Top of the Park” or the Tasman level). Reserved parking spots for mobility-impaired guests are available at the car parks near the main entrance. If you have special needs, long-time fans say management is usually accommodating, but feel free to call ahead. What to Bring: Always bring photo ID if you’re attending (even if your ticket is in someone else’s name) because gate staff may require ID per the ticketing terms (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Dress code is generally smart-casual – you won’t need black-tie, but the venue does enforce a neat dress code in hospitality areas (for example, no singlets or sport shorts on the dining floor) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). On summer evenings the open-air sections can still be cool, so a light jacket is wise. Bring cash if you want to place small TAB bets or buy from casual vendors, though cards are accepted at bars. If it looks like rain, bring a small clear poncho or raincoat (some seating on the lawns or stands is uncovered). But note that The Stables marquee and main stands have roofs. For loud race finishes or live music, some visitors use earplugs or headphones (especially kids or sensitive ears). Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t arrive late and expect to collect tickets smoothly – lining up well before start time (gates often open an hour early) is safer. If you’ve purchased a table or hospitality package, call ahead if you’re running late. On big event nights, traffic along Greenlane and Manukau can slow down; allow extra travel time and consider arriving before the rush. Remember Alexandra Park events are 18+; even if you bring a well-behaved child, they will be turned away at the gate (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Also, don’t try to sneak in outside drinks or food – security is vigilant and such items can be confiscated (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Other tips: The Alex Bar menu is good for pizza, burgers, salads and New Zealand classics (after-party drinks there can be lively post-race). If visiting on a non-race day, the venue might still host markets or fairs with food stalls, so check the website for those. There’s no formal cloakroom, so carry valuables with you. Mobile signal is fair, but if you absolutely need Wi-Fi you might test it early, as it’s not guaranteed in all areas. The green in-field grassy areas are sometimes open to walk on (unless roped off), which is a fun way to see the horses up close – just stay clear of any grooms working on the track and obey staff directions. Finally, keep your ticket/wristband on until you leave. (It’s common practice for wristband checks on exit.) If your event has early-doors drinks or a package deal, staff will usually wrist you before racing starts. After the show or last race, roads get busy (everyone leaves together), so be patient or plan a quick exit path. Taxis often form a queue on Campbell Crescent at closing time. By following these tips and planning ahead, visitors find Alexandra Park welcoming and exciting. In practice it’s a down-to-earth venue, and locals pride themselves on its friendly atmosphere – just like an extra-large community sports bar where everyone’s invited.

Where is Alexandra Park located and how do I get there?

Alexandra Park is at the corner of Greenlane West and Manukau Road in Greenlane (Epsom), Auckland. It’s a 15–20 minute drive south from the CBD, or 20 minutes from the airport (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). By car, follow signs for Greenlane/Auckland Showgrounds. By public transport, take a city bus to Greenlane (routes 30, 70, 321, etc.) or a train to Greenlane Station, then a short bus or 15–20 min walk (at.govt.nz) (at.govt.nz). Rideshare drop-off is normally on Greenlane West outside the venue.

Is there parking available, and do I have to pay?

Yes, Alexandra Park has on-site parking. For most race nights and regular events, parking is **free of charge** and plentiful (www.alexandrapark.co.nz) (djentertainment.co.nz). (Attendants may direct you to a space.) However, during premium events at the adjacent ASB Showgrounds (like the big A&P Show), Alexandra Park operates a paid parking service: it offers $15 all-day parking (about 2000 spaces) a few hundred meters away (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Always check the specific event notice – usually normal events are free car parks, while special expo days may charge a flat fee.

Are buses or trains available near Alexandra Park?

Yes. City buses run along Greenlane West and Manukau Road by Alexandra Park. Key routes include the OuterLink (70/30) and suburban buses (such as route 321 and 65) which stop within a block of the entrance (at.govt.nz). For example, the 70/30 buses from downtown take ~20–35 minutes to Greenlane/Manukau and then it’s a 2–10 minute walk (at.govt.nz). The nearest train station is Greenlane on the Southern/Onehunga line, about 1–2 km north; from there you can walk (20 minutes) or catch a bus 650/321 down Greenlane West to reach the park (at.govt.nz). Be sure to check the current timetables on Auckland Transport’s website or app.

How do I buy tickets for an event, and do I need to pick them up on the day?

Tickets are sold through Alexandra Park’s official channels. You can usually purchase tickets online via the venue’s website or by calling their office. Once booked, tickets are collected in person at the park on the event day. The booking site will tell you exactly where to pick up tickets or wristbands at the venue (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). You should have your booking confirmation and a photo ID at pickup. (Credit card or voucher payment is taken at order time; nothing is mailed out. The printed confirmation or email alone is not a ticket – you *must* exchange it for a wristband/ticket when you arrive (www.alexandrapark.co.nz).)

What should I bring to the event?

Bring your photo ID (the venue requires all ticket-holders to be 18 or older (www.alexandrapark.co.nz)) and a printed or digital copy of your booking confirmation for ticket pickup (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). You should also carry some cash (for small purchases or TAB) and a credit card for bars or vendors. Outside food or drink is not allowed (www.alexandrapark.co.nz), so plan to eat inside or nearby. In cooler months, a warm jacket is useful since outdoor viewing areas can get chilly late at night. Finally, dress codes vary: smart-casual is usually fine, but avoid sportswear or swimwear. (Hospitality areas enforce a neat dress code (www.alexandrapark.co.nz).) Small bags and cameras are okay, but leave large backpacks or prohibited items at home.

Are children or pets allowed at Alexandra Park events?

No, spectators must be 18 years or older to attend any public event at Alexandra Park (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). Even well-behaved children are not permitted entry. The venue is not a child-friendly environment (racing nights can be loud), so under-18s are excluded. Pets or other animals (aside from service animals) are also not allowed. This rule is firm – be prepared to show ID and proof of age at the gate before entry.

Is there a dress code I need to follow?

Alexandra Park is generally relaxed on attire, but some areas do enforce rules. On race nights it’s common to see patrons in smart-casual attire: men often wear collared shirts or jackets, women in lively dresses (especially for marquee events). Hospitality sections (like the Tasman Room or VIP lounges) require neat casual – for example, no singlets or sports team jerseys (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). If you’re attending a themed night (e.g. Christmas races), nice dress or costumes might be encouraged. Because weather can vary, dress in layers and avoid beachwear. If in doubt, err on the side of tidy casual; disallowed attire will be pointed out at entry.

Can I bring my own food or drinks inside?

No – outside food and beverages (including alcohol) are strictly prohibited (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). The venue has full catering and bar services, and all food/drink must be purchased on site. Bottle shops and restaurants are a short walk away if you need pre- or post-event provisions, but don’t bring any snacks or liquor into the park grounds. Staff do security checks at entry to enforce this rule. Exceptions may be made for medical dietary needs with prior permission.

What seating options are available, and where are the best views?

Seating depends on the event layout. For races, any trackside or stand-seat will give you a good view of the horses; the front rows by the finish line are ideal. Larger events (concerts, dinners) are held in the indoor halls: e.g. the *Tasman Room* (up to 900 theatre-style seats) or *Top of the Park* (about 250 seats) (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). These rooms are well-equipped with sound and lighting. If an event is general-admission, arriving early secures a better spot (closer to stage or track). For special shows, there may be reserved tables or VIP areas (usually higher-priced). The highest viewpoints are on balconies overlooking the track (“Top of the Park” is famous for its panoramic vista). In summary, any indoor lounge seat works for performances, while for racing the lower-floor stands or trackside railings are preferred.

Are there food and drink facilities inside Alexandra Park?

Yes. The main food & drink hub is *The Alex Bar & Eatery*, a large sports café and bistro with seating, a full bar and TAB betting stations (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). It serves breakfast through dinner (opening as early as 8am and staying open until 11pm or midnight on big nights (www.alexandrapark.co.nz)), so you can buy meals, snacks, coffee and alcohol there. On race days, you can dine in the lounge area or outdoors by the track. Other bars or wait service operate inside event halls for concerts or functions. For quick grabs, events often have pop-up food stalls or night-market vendors (especially in outdoor spaces). For drinks, licensed bars will serve beer, wine and spirits until the venue’s midnight close (no BYO allowed). Restrooms, and fountains, are throughout the complex.

What kinds of events does Alexandra Park host?

Alexandra Park’s primary function is harness racing 🏇 – it’s home to the Auckland Trotting Club, so expect weekly night races (Feb–Dec) almost every Thursday and Friday, plus big race carnivals like the Auckland Cup, Christmas Cup and Oaks & Derby series. But beyond racing it’s a full-time events venue. In recent years it has hosted live music concerts (from tribute bands to reggae and cultural music), themed parties and markets (Eats & Beats night market), plus cultural nights (Pasifika dance and kapa haka). Corporate events, conferences, banquets and weddings regularly use its indoor rooms. The schedule changes week-to-week, so always check the official calendar – you might find anything from a hip-hop show to a craft fair at this versatile Auckland venue (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.eventfinda.co.nz)!

What is “Christmas at the Races”?

“Christmas at the Races” is Alexandra Park’s annual festive series of race nights held throughout December. These Friday races are themed for the holidays: expect Christmas music, decorations, prize giveaways and funniest-hat competitions among the crowd. Many fun features are added (Santa photo booths, Christmas trivia) alongside the regular harness racing action. You’ll often see attendees dressed in holiday colours or silly costumes. It’s very popular with punters and families alike (though remember, events are all 18+). If you visit in late November or December, a “Christmas at the Races” night is a great way to experience Alexandra Park’s festive atmosphere while watching the horses.

Is Alexandra Park wheelchair-accessible?

Yes. The venue is generally accessible. Wheelchair ramps lead into the main buildings, and lifts serve upper levels (so you can get to Top of the Park, Tasman Room, etc.). Accessible parking spaces are available near the main entrance. Inside, restrooms have disabled facilities. The staff are helpful if you need assistance, but it’s a good idea to call ahead if you have any special requirements. The policy requiring 18+ for entry still applies to people with disabilities – they’re welcome, but ID will be requested at the gate (www.alexandrapark.co.nz).

Is there Wi-Fi available at Alexandra Park?

The venue does not offer reliable public Wi-Fi for casual visitors. Any wireless internet provided is on an "as-is" basis for booked events (www.alexandrapark.co.nz), which means it may be slow or momentarily unavailable (and the park disclaims any responsibility for interruptions). In practice, visitors usually rely on mobile data. Cell phone coverage is generally good at Alexandra Park, so your own mobile connection (4G/5G) is the safer bet for browsing or maps on site.

What is the capacity of Alexandra Park?

It depends on the configuration. For a big seated event, the largest indoor room (Tasman) holds about 900 guests in theatre seating (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). If you include standing room (cocktail style) that can reach 1,200 in that same space. Outdoor, the covered “Stables” marquee can fit roughly 900 dining guests or up to 2,000 standing (www.alexandrapark.co.nz). In total, Alexandra Park can host on the order of *a thousand* people indoors at once (djentertainment.co.nz) and a couple thousand outdoors. (The DJ hire site notes the venue can accommodate up to about 1,000 guests lower-bound (djentertainment.co.nz).) Of course, exact numbers vary by event setup, but these give a sense: it’s a mid-sized venue – bigger than a club, smaller than a stadium.