Your Inside Track to a Great Night Out

Friday July 03 | Addington Raceway

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New to the Trots? We've got you

Event Start
Fri, 3 Jul 2026 06:00 PM
Event End
Fri, 3 Jul 2026 09:00 PM
Location

75 Jack Hinton Drive
Addington, Christchurch 8024

Price
FREE

Firsties is your easiest way to experience a night at The Trots, whether you’re completely new to racing or just looking for something a little different to do midwinter.

Expect a relaxed, social atmosphere with live racing, good food, cold drinks, and plenty happening around the track throughout the night. You don’t need to know anything about harness racing to enjoy it either. Firsties is designed to feel welcoming, easy, and fun from the moment you arrive.

There’ll be a few extra touches on the night for Firsties guests, with more details to be announced soon. Sign up to our newsletter and be the first to now when registrations go live.

At Firsties you’ll find:

• A laid-back, social atmosphere
• Live racing under the lights
• Great food and drink options
• Friendly faces to help you settle in
• Chances to win experiences and merch throughout the night
• No dress code — come as you are ✨

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What you get

Your own hangout

A relaxed zone with views of the track, great tunes, and a friendly crew to help you make the most of the night.

Meet the stars of the show

Go behind the scenes with insider tours. Meet the drivers, trainers, and horses up close, and see what makes The Trots tick.

Food & Drink deals

Grab exclusive Firsties food specials created just for the night. Easy, tasty options designed for a relaxed night out.

Giveaways & Prizes

You’ll go in the draw for merch and the chance to win a ride in the starting vehicle and a mini owner’s experience.

Friendly Hosts

Our Firsties Host is there all night to explain the basics, answer questions, and help you enjoy your night at The Trots - relaxed, easy, and fun from start to finish.

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Come see what you've been missing

There’s nothing quite like a night at The Trots. Live racing, music, food, and an atmosphere you won’t get anywhere else.

This Firsties night is completely free, all you need to do is register.

Bring your mates, grab your welcome drink, and see why Addington keeps people coming back.

We’ve got plenty more to reveal soon too, including food specials, experiences, giveaways, and a few surprises across the night ✨

Registrations will be opening soon, so keep an eye on our socials and sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know.

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Need to Know

Do I need to know anything about racing?

Not at all. You don’t need to be a racing expert to enjoy the night. Our Firsties Host will explain how it all works and make sure you feel right at home.

Do I have to bet?

Nope. Betting’s totally optional. You can simply enjoy the racing, the atmosphere, and the night out.

What should I wear?

There’s no dress code - just come as you are. From jeans and sneakers to frocks and shirts, The Trots is all about relaxed, social fun.

What time should I arrive?

Gates open at 5 and the action starts soon after. Most people arrive early to grab their drink, find their spot, and settle in.

How long do I have to stay?

It’s completely up to you. Stay for a couple of races or make a full night of it.

How do I get there?

Addington is easy to get to with plenty of onsite parking.