Kick off your summer with a day out at The Trots
Sunday 21 December | Ashburton Raceway
HARNESS 5000 – Racing for Grassroots Glory
Phoebe Stud Harness5000 is summer racing the way Kiwis like it! Sunshine, good company, room to spread out, and a full afternoon of quality grassroots harness racing. Whether you’re bringing the whānau, a group of friends, or tagging along with your local crew, it’s the kind of day that feels relaxed, fun, and easy to make your own.
General admission is free, and you’re welcome to bring your own picnic. Set up on the grass, claim a spot in the picnic area, or make the most of the boot party zone with your mates.
If you’d prefer something a bit more organised, on-course hospitality packages are available to book from $80pp. From catered marquee spaces to reserved seating options.
Expect:
• A full 12-race programme celebrating grassroots racing
• Live music, food carts, coffee and ice cream
• Kids’ entertainment and family-friendly activities
• Plenty of space to base yourself for the day
• Optional marquee and hospitality packages for groups
Fully Catered Package ($125pp)
A relaxed, hassle-free way to enjoy a full day out with friends, family, or workmates.
Settle into a hosted space with great views, a reserved seat, and everything taken care of for you. Enjoy a full meal, drinks throughout the afternoon, and a comfortable base to come and go from as you soak up the atmosphere trackside.
Price: $125 per person
What’s Included:
• Full meal service
• Beer, wine, spirits + non-alcoholic drinks
• Reserved grandstand seating
• Racebook
• A relaxed, hosted area to enjoy the day
To book:
📞 03 308 6794
📧 office@ashburtonraceway.co.nz
Marquee Hospitality ($80pp)
Easy, social, and right in the middle of it all.
Great for groups who want food, drinks, and a good spot to hang out without having to organise anything. Come and go as you like, snack away, and enjoy the day at your own pace.
What you get:
• Finger food rolling out all day
• Beer, wine + non-alcoholic drinks
• A fun, casual spot near the finishing post
• TAB access if you want to have a go
To book:
📞 03 308 6794
📧 office@ashburtonraceway.co.nz
Boot Party Zone (Free to Attend)
A classic Kiwi day out! Park up, pop the boot, and make the space your own.
Perfect for mates, families, and groups who like a laid-back, bring-your-own setup. Enjoy good company, plenty of room to spread out, and a fun atmosphere with the races rolling along in the background.
Price: Free
What to Expect:
• Bring your own food and drink
• Easy access via Gate 5
• Plenty of space to gather with your crew
• TAB nearby if you want a flutter
• A chill, festival-style atmosphere
Quick note:
You just can’t take your drinks from the Boot Party area onto the main course, otherwise, all good.
Rock up whenever you like. No bookings needed!
Family Picnic Area – FREE
A super easy, family-friendly spot to spend the afternoon.
Bring a picnic, lay out a blanket, let the kids run around, grab an ice cream, and enjoy the entertainment. With face painting, balloon animals, a bouncy castle and Santa popping by, it’s relaxed, sunny, and feels like a classic Kiwi summer day out.
Price: Free
What to expect:
• Bring your own picnic
• Drinks + treats available on course
• Big grass area to spread out
• Kids’ activities close by (face painting, balloon animals, Santa + more)
• Fun atmosphere with the races in the background
No booking needed!