Groom on track for the big wedding day

There were celebrations galore at Arawa Park on Saturday, with thousands turning out for Rotorua Plate Day.

One local taking advantage of the on-course entertainment was Rotorua's soon-to-be-married Mitchell Farnell.

Mr Farnell said it was a long day of celebrations that started with a game of golf, followed by some paintball action before heading to the races.

"It's a lot of fun, the boys really enjoy a day at the races so we thought we'd better fit it in."

He said he didn't do so well on the horses and was looking forward to a much more successful event next weekend.

"My lovely fiancee has certainly picked a winner," he said.

TRAC Rotorua event manager Paul Hickey said about 2500 people headed down to the track on Saturday, with lots of lovely ladies taking part in the Fashions In The Field competition.

Unfortunately, no locals were in the running for the fashions' competition, won by Waikato resident Claudia Campbell who won direct entry to next year's Prix de Fashion at Ellerslie in Auckland.

She also won prizes from the Rotorua Novotel, Rotorua Florist and Parrots on Hinemoa.

"There were lots of people on the lawn or relaxing in the stands and kids taking advantage of the free entertainment. It was a great family day out," Mr Hickey said.

One lucky Rotorua punter, who did not want to be identified, picked up $5500 by picking the first four runners in Australia's Caulfield Cup race with a $60 bet.

"I didn't have much luck with winners in Rotorua so I thought I'd have a punt on the big overseas race.

"It's a lot more fun on course," said the lucky punter.

"Not bad for an afternoon's work."