Minister urges racing industry to work together

Minister for Racing Winston Peters is urging all parts of New Zealand’s racing industry to work together to secure its long-term future.

The Minister’s call is in response to the report produced by the TAB New Zealand Racing Advisory Committee, outlining wide-ranging proposed reforms for the sector.

“Everyone involved in racing wants a strong and sustainable future for the industry,” says Mr Peters. 

“The question now is how the key stakeholders in racing work together to achieve that.”

Mr Peters acknowledges and thanks the Advisory Committee for their work and commitment, noting the significant time and expertise that went into producing the report.

He notes the report highlights a lack of alignment across key industry organisations.  The Minister says the report shows the need for a more unified approach within the sector.

“For reform to succeed, it cannot be driven in isolation. It must be built on collaboration, shared understandings, and a commitment from all parts of the industry to move forward together,” Mr Peters says.

The Minister has made clear that, with a General Election approaching, large-scale legislative reform is not the immediate priority for the Government.

Instead, he is encouraging industry participants — including TAB New Zealand and the racing codes — to work constructively together over the coming months.

“The expectation is simple: the Advisory Committee, TAB NZ, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and Harness Racing New Zealand must engage closely, in good faith, and develop a cohesive pathway forward,” says Mr Peters.

Mr Peters emphasised that government intervention is a last resort, and that the industry itself has tools available under current legislation to progress several of the changes it is seeking.

“There is more that can be done within existing settings. The industry must first demonstrate its ability to act collectively and make progress before seeking further legislative change.

“The opportunity is there for the industry to collaborate, align its priorities, and present a united case for the future,” Mr Peters says. ...