Plenty of action on and off track for Taupo races

Fun, family-friendly and relaxed - there's something for everyone when the Interislander Summer Festival races hit Taupo tomorrow.

For the kids there's all the classic fun events like tug-of-war, sack races, face painting and pony rides while the adults can enjoy acool drink and a friendly bet.

Race club manager Paul Hickey said it was great to have the summer races back in Taupo after last year's event had to be cancelled because of the weather. He was hoping the weather would be kinder this year, despite the rain forecast, and said they'd love to see about 5000 people turn up.

"It should be a fun day out. Obviously there's the horse racing but it's really about a family day out with lots of activities off the track as well."

Families can take along a picnic or there will be plenty of food and drink options available for those who want to purchase goods at the races.

"We've got a whole sectioned-off kids area that's nice and safe for them away from the race track. It's a fun family day out."

The gates open at 9.30am with the first race at 12.30pm and the final race at 5.18pm.

"There are those regulars who have their favourite spots they like to position themselves in and arrive early."

However he said most started to arrive about 10.30am or 11am and there were still plenty of spots to choose from.

There are nine races with the Harcourts Taupo Cup the feature event of the day.