Construction industry figure appointed chair of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing

Paul Humphries will succeed Russell Warwick as chair of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing during a critical juncture for the country’s industry.

Equipped with extensive racing, governance and commercial experience, Humphries’ appointment coincides with this week’s release of Project Stamina, a far-reaching report into the viability of thoroughbred and harness racing in New Zealand.

Humphries is set to play a pivotal role in reshaping the direction of New Zealand’s thoroughbred industry with Project Stamina’s recommendations in hand.

Commissioned by NZTR, Harness Racing New Zealand and TAB NZ, Project Stamina recommends five thoroughbred venues, including Trentham, be decommissioned.

Raised in a racing family with Awapuni Racecourse on his doorstep, Humphries has spent a lifetime in the industry as an owner, breeder, sponsor and administrator. 

His governance roles have included chairing RACE Incorporated and the Members’ Council, while also serving as president of the Manawatu Racing Club.

Humphries is also the founder and managing director of Humphries Construction and has more than 25 years’ experience building and leading businesses across the construction, property development and investment sectors.

He will take over as NZTR chair on August 1 until the organisation’s annual general meeting in November, where it is almost certain he will be reappointed for a long-term tenure.

“Racing has been part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve the industry as Chair of NZTR,” Humphries said.

“This is an important time for New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing. There is significant work underway, including Project Stamina, and my immediate focus will be on working with the board, management and industry stakeholders to maintain that momentum.

“I understand the challenges our industry faces, but I am also confident about the opportunities ahead. We have passionate people throughout racing and a shared interest in creating a strong and sustainable future for the industry.”

Warwick announced on July 2 that he would step down as chair earlier this month citing the “demands of the role over recent months together with my need to focus on my primary role at Westbury Stud” where he is general manager.

Humphries’ rise to chair was acknowledged by Members Council Chair Bernard Hickey and NZTR chief executive Matt Ballesty.

 “Paul has a deep understanding of New Zealand racing, from its participants and clubs through to governance at a national level,” Ballesty said.

“He also brings considerable commercial and leadership experience. These qualities will be valuable as NZTR continues its programme of reform and investment across the industry.

“We look forward to working with Paul as we build on the momentum already established and continue strengthening the future of thoroughbred racing in New Zealand.”

Ballesty thanked Warwick for his dedication to the industry.

“Russell has led NZTR through a significant period of change,” Ballesty said. 

“We thank him for his leadership and are pleased the board will continue to benefit from his experience as a director through to the annual general meeting in November.”