Record numbers expected at Tauherenikau

TRADITIONAL FUN : Top-notch racing can be expected at Tauherenikau on January 2.PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Thousands of Wairarapa people are gearing up for one of the traditionally great days on Wairarapa's summer calendar, the New Year races at Tauherenikau.

Picnic hampers are being dusted off ahead of the highly-anticipated annual Interislander Summer Festival at the course known as Beautiful Tauherenikau on January 2.

Wairarapa Racing Club will host a full day of top racing, live music and free entertainment for the kids.

Event manager Ginny Thurston said they were predicting record numbers through the gates for this classic Kiwi day out at the races.

"The Interislander Summer Festival is a great way for families and friends to get together, soak up the summer sunshine and take in the exciting country racing action.

"There's something on-course for everyone to enjoy. On-track games between races, goodie bags and lots of prizes will keep the kids entertained, giving mum and dad time to relax, try some great local food and maybe make a bet or two," she said.

The Kids Go Racing events and activities for under-12s continues to be a hit with families year-on-year with classics such as "pin-the-tail-on-the-horse" and the horseshoe toss.

Kids will also have the chance to hang out with Hopples or Stirrup, the friendly Interislander Summer Festival horse mascots.

The Interislander Summer Festival has grown to over 40 events this year and will run from Boxing Day until February 8 at some of New Zealand's most picturesque racecourses.

Tickets to the Interislander Summer Festival are free for under 18-year-olds and $15 for adults. For more details, visit theraces.co.nz.

The Wairarapa Racing Club will hold another Interislander Summer Festival meet at Tauherenikau Racecourse on Waitangi Day, February 6.

Tickets are $15 for adults.