TAB NZ introduce fuel subsidies for racing participants

TAB New Zealand has announced a temporary fuel relief package of up to $1 million to support participants across thoroughbred and harness racing.

The package will apply retrospectively from 1 April 2026 and was developed in collaboration with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and Harness Racing New Zealand.

TAB New Zealand chief commercial and industry officer Jason Fleming said the initiative responds to recent sharp increases in fuel costs.

“Rising fuel prices, particularly diesel which is up 69 per cent in the past 28 days, are placing real pressure on owners, trainers, drivers, jockeys and clubs, and ultimately on the sustainability of race meetings,” he said.

“This is a targeted, time‑limited package designed to help participants through an exceptional period of volatility, while ensuring the continuity and resilience of the racing calendar.”

Payments will be delivered through existing participant payment systems and will support trainers, drivers and jockeys, owners of horses finishing outside the top four, and clubs facing increased operational costs. The structure is designed to be simple, equitable and administratively efficient.

NZTR general manager of racing Mitch Lamb said similar fuel relief initiatives have recently been implemented by Racing NSW and Racing Victoria.

“We have looked closely at how our Australian counterparts are responding to the same pressures,” he said.

“This package is well aligned with those approaches, while being tailored to New Zealand’s industry structure.”

The subsidy will be subject to review, with a maximum of $250,000 available per month from April 1 to July 31.