Racing is an iconic part of New Zealand’s culture. It will play an important part in our clean, green image of a world beating primary sector. With the location near the large Australian racing industry and the huge potential of the Asian racing market we are uniquely placed to succeed and grow. We have talented people who are passionate and dedicated to the industry. We have the history, quality, and genetic base of horses to suceed.
With that exciting product, the Racefields legislation will enable us to capture a return on New Zealanders betting overseas and bets on New Zealand races. This should pass through Parliament in the early New Year.
The industry requires a stable economic environment with a Government prudently managing its finances. That will enable racing businesses to grow, and more disposable revenue for horse owners and punters alike. This strong economic environment also needs a balanced immigration policy to enable the industry to attract the international staff it requires. Only National offers good economic management and a balanced migration process.
The industry does face some challenges around ageing infrastructure, low stakes and the need to retain our best and brightest. We welcome the conversations around how to create the modern infrastructure required to promote new products and consistent racing to the punters. These considerations are necessary as we look at progressing the changes already made and in this area but also in creating the new racing statutes for the future. We would be interested in how an intermediate level of stakes could be accommodated to ensure there is a sustainable racing industry with a core base.
Racing has exciting times ahead and we are enthusiastic about what can happen.
Racing spokesperson for the National Party, David Bennett
To view the National Party Racing Policy click on this link.
To view the Labour Party Racing Policy click on this link.
To view NZ First Racing Policy click on this link.
Other Parties do not seem to rate Racing at all as there is no mention of the Racing Industry on there sites.