The hottest day in Central Otago
Create a new holiday tradition
3279 Lauder-Omakau Road, Lauder 9377
If you’ve spent summer in Central Otago before, you probably already know about the Omakau Trots. And if you don't this is the day to find out why people plan their holidays around it.
It’s a big, all-day country raceday with everything going on at once: racing on track, kids everywhere, food trucks humming, fashion happening, and plenty of space to settle in with a picnic and make a day of it. It’s busy in the best way.
Entry is $10 for adults, with kids free, and once you’re through the gate, the whole day opens up.
The kids’ programme is next level. There’s a scavenger hunt with an activity pack for every entrant, 100 kids packs to give away, plus games and activities running through the day. It’s easily one of the best free kids setups you’ll find anywhere.
Fashion in the Fields is back too, with big prizes up for grabs and it always pulls a crowd.
Bring the deck chairs, load up the picnic baskets, and clear the diary. Omakau is one of those days you don’t squeeze in, you commit to it.
Win a share in a racehorse
Ever wondered what it’s like to be an owner? This is your chance - with no costs, no catch, and no risk.
The Harness Racing Unhinged competition is back for 2026, giving three people the opportunity to win an all-expenses-paid share in a racehorse syndicate for the rest of the season, thanks to Nigel and Brenda Armstrong and the Central Otago Trotting Club.
If you win, you’ll be part of the Unhinged syndicate, following the horses as they race around New Zealand (and possibly Australia). You won’t pay a cent at any stage, and if the horses perform well, there’s even the chance of a payout at the end of the season (no guarantees, but that’s racing).
You’ll get regular updates on where and when the horses are racing, plus the same ownership privileges offered to any registered owner when they start.
How it works
- Enter via the Central Otago Trotting Club Facebook page
- Entries close 30 December at 12pm
- Finalists will be drawn and must be on course at Omakau on 2 January
- Finalists will be hosted on raceday with:
- Free admission
- Drinks and nibbles in the Presidents Room
- An escorted visit to the stables
- The chance to watch the race from the owners’ stand
On raceday, finalists will be drawn against a horse in the Unhinged-sponsored race.
The people drawn against the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd placed horses will each win a share in the syndicate.
It’s a genuine chance to experience racing from the inside, without needing to spend a cent.