Rotorua venues under starter's orders for Melbourne Cup

It makes no difference whether you're a first-time bettor or seasoned punter, the Melbourne Cup is all about atmosphere.

Described in Australia as the race that stops a nation, the Melbourne Cup also captures the attention of many New Zealanders who, in 2013, invested more than $9 million in the race.

A number of Rotorua venues play host to Cup festivities today. The Hits crew will be at Ambrosia Restaurant and Bar from 3.30pm providing an afternoon of fun for race-day revellers with action from the cup broadcast on the big screen

People are encouraged to dress up for the venue's Fashion in the Field with a raft of prizes on offer.

Rotorua's Citizens Club is also offering guests an excuse to dress up and watch the action.
A best-dressed man and woman competition and snail racing are included in the afternoon's events.

At TAB on Eruera St manager Toni Mills said staff would be on hand to help throughout the day.

"There's always a great atmosphere on Melbourne Cup Day," Mills said. "Even if you've got no idea what you're doing, it's still great fun."

She said the cup was responsible for many first-time punters placing a bet but was also the day people who only have an annual flutter, come out to play.

"Some people think there's only one race to bet on while others think it can be a costly day. The minimum bet is $1 and you can have a lot of fun with that amount."

Ten races feature on the Melbourne Cup Day Carnival programme with the Melbourne Cup at race seven on the card. The 2017 cup offers $6.2m in prizemoney .

The race goes ahead at 5pm New Zealand time.

Sweepstake chart in today's Rotorua Daily Post