Brad Steele Q&A

HRNZ CEO Brad Steele answers topical questions covering breeding numbers, Harness 5000, small fields and weekly payments for stakeholders.

Why is a trial to pay stakeholders on a weekly basis taking place?

HRNZ introduced weekly stakes payments to better align with how participants operate and manage cashflow, while also modernising our financial processes. Our participants incur weekly costs (feed, staff, transport, vets). Weekly payments mean stakes earnings are received closer to when costs are incurred, reducing financial pressure.

Has this change been requested by owners/trainers/drivers?

This is an HRNZ initiative.

Is the weekly payment done in other countries?

Yes, but there is not a consistent approach.

When will the final call be made as to whether the policy is to be implemented permanently?

Towards end of March 2026

Are you happy with the holiday racing turnovers?

All things considered, yes. Undoubtedly there were challenges along the way, however we saw positive uplift across several key meetings, and this was driven partly by greater utilisation of our horses. What also needs to be factored in goes beyond just turnover. “Active punters” engaging with Harness Racing continues to grow, and this indicates that at such time that financial pressures ease on households, customer growth should, in turn, reflect in additional wagering growth.

Any word on final numbers for the last breeding season?

Final numbers are due on 28 February from the studs.  NZSBA did a survey in November that showed bookings were going in the right direction. Similarly, conversations with stud managers have generally been positive. We remain optimistic that we will deliver a much-improved result on the prior year.

Are you concerned about the small numbers of starters in some of the feature races?

It would be irresponsible to say no. There are several changes and improvements to come around feature races we’re running, from programming to stake level adjustments reflective of support and value those races provide to the industry, among just some of the key performance metrics. We are doing a larger piece of work providing a focused lens on our entire group and feature race calendar, and in turn, some additional, consistent oversight. Where group and feature races aren’t performing, they risk being downgraded in both stake and status, and as much on the flip side, if they’re doing well and adding value, then there’s opportunity to increase stake and where applicable, group status too.

Are you excited about the increasing numbers of international bloodlines at our upcoming yearling sales, including some strong Australian trotting product?

Absolutely. The increasing presence of international bloodlines, particularly high-quality Australian trotting stock is a really positive signal for the New Zealand industry. It reflects growing confidence in our yearling sales as a genuine international marketplace.

For buyers it adds depth, choice, and competitive tension. For breeders, it reinforces the value of aligning New Zealand’s strengths with proven global genetics. And for the industry overall, it supports our long-term objective of producing horses that can perform domestically and stand up on the international stage. We are restoring the uniqueness of our NZ pedigrees.

Are any changes likely for the Harness 5000 series?

Only that the series has started from 1 January 2026 and the leaderboard is already available on the HRNZ website. Like many of our initiatives we continue to review for continuous improvements.

Are there any new races or feature series on the horizon?

We are always looking at improving the feature and grass roots races based upon performance and feedback. There will be some further announcements in the next few months.

Most junior drivers find it hard to transition to the senior ranks. Is there any consideration being given to some concessions being available to juniors just out of their time?

We acknowledge that the transition from junior to senior ranks is a critical point in a driver’s development, and it can be challenging.

HRNZ continues to look closely at how we best support that transition while maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of the senior driving ranks. Any further consideration of concessions such as time-limited allowances needs to be carefully balanced and evidence-based, and assessed alongside existing junior pathways, education, and driving opportunities.

It’s an area that remains under active review, and we’ll continue to engage with stakeholders as we work through the most appropriate options. However there are already a significant number of concessions with no immediate plans to change.

Any other positive news you’d like to share with the stakeholders?

Taupo reintroduced grass track harness racing to the upper North Island. It was extraordinarily well received by participants with very strong starter numbers.  We will review the results and discuss further opportunities with the Taupo Racing Club. I thank their president Terry and committee for their support.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink