Protest against horse racing planned for Whanganui race meeting

Horse racing protesters outside Ellerslie Racecourse on Boxing Day. Photo / Supplied

The Media Council has ruled that as initially published this article was unbalanced as no comment had been sought from any other party. The Media Council ruling is at www.mediacouncil.org.nz.

Animal activists say they are planning a "horse racing kills" protest at the Wanganui Jockey Club's Summer Raceday tomorrow.

Sandra Kyle, who is organising Thursday's protest in Whanganui on behalf of the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses, said a group of local residents wanted to raise awareness of the horse racing industry's "cold underbelly".

"We want our presence on Thursday to make people stop and think about what it is they're really supporting when they attend the races and take bets on horses. They're betting on these noble animals' lives."

Since initial publication Wanganui Jockey Club has been approached for comment, but it referred the Chronicle to New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing.

Also since initial publication New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing has been approached, but did not comment on the planned protest or the group's claims.