New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders Association

The New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (NZTBA) is the national representative body for New Zealand’s thoroughbred breeding industry. Established in 1948, the association advocates for breeders on national and international issues while supporting the development, sustainability and long-term interests of the New Zealand thoroughbred sector.

The NZTBA represents breeders of all sizes, from major commercial stud farms to smaller breeders, and operates through a network of regional branches across New Zealand. Its purpose is to encourage, promote and advance the production and improvement of the Thoroughbred and protect the interests of breeders.

KEY AREAS OF ACTIVITY

• Industry advocacy: Represents New Zealand breeders in discussions with Government, government agencies and industry organisations on matters including bloodstock taxation, ACC, environmental regulation, health and safety, biosecurity and equine welfare.
• Industry development: Supports initiatives that strengthen the competitiveness, sustainability and long-term future of New Zealand’s thoroughbred breeding industry.
• Education and training: Facilitates education and professional development opportunities, including the Sunline International Management Scholarship, Irish National Stud Scholarship and support for breeding-related training courses.
• Workforce development: Helps attract and develop the next generation of industry participants through scholarships, training opportunities and initiatives that build skills and career pathways.
• Industry information and publications: Produces the annual NZ Stallion Register, a key reference for breeders, and provides regular member updates covering industry news, regulatory matters and practical information.
• Equine welfare, health and research: Works with industry and research organisations on equine health, welfare, rehoming, biosecurity and research initiatives.
• National breeding awards: Recognises excellence across the industry through awards including Breeder of the Year, Broodmare of the Year, Small Breeder of the Year and the Dewar Stallion Trophy.
• Regional engagement: Supports local branch activities, including stud tours, seminars, awards dinners, stallion expos, yearling parades and other networking and educational events.
• Industry programmes: Administers the Entain–NZB Insurance Pearl Series, which provides substantial race bonuses for eligible southern hemisphere-bred fillies and mares and benefits owners, trainers and breeders.

Structure and Membership
The NZTBA is an incorporated industry association with a national membership base of approximately 1,300 members, according to its current website. Its membership is organised across eight regional branches: Auckland, Waikato, Taranaki-Wanganui, Central Districts, Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Canterbury-Marlborough-Westland-Otago and Southland.

Membership provides access to industry information, the annual Stallion Register, member resources, regional activities, reciprocal raceday benefits and other partner benefits. The association also maintains relationships with organisations involved in racing, breeding, education, research and rural industry advocacy.