HRNZ introduces new regulation on handicapping and ratings

Harness Racing New Zealand has released a new regulation that will shape how meetings are conducted and races are programmed, handicapped, and rated.

The new Conduct of Meetings, Programming, Handicapping and Rating Regulation comes into effect on Monday 30 June 2025, and replaces the existing Handicapping Regulation, Programming Condition  – General Regulation, and Ratings Handicapping System Guiding Principles.

HRNZ acknowledges the short notice of this release. However, it follows a lengthy consultation process across the industry. The organisation has aimed to give due consideration to all feedback and incorporate it where appropriate, while still working to the 30 June implementation date.

These changes are the result of a collaborative 18-month process involving the Utilisation Reference Group, National and Regional Forums, and feedback from industry participants. The updated regulation reflects the recommendations from this work, with a focus on improving field sizes, simplifying programming, and supporting consistent racing opportunities.

Key outcomes include:

1. A clearer rating transition structure: All one-win horses will now be rated R40, two-win horses R45, and three-win horses R50, regardless of when those wins occurred.
2. Retention of junior driver concessions in a revised format, with potential further reforms to be considered separately.
3. Scratching penalties will not change at this stage – an alternative approach will be developed and consulted on.
4. Updated procedures for the Bureau based on feedback and operational learnings since its introduction.
5. Clarifications to existing wording to remove anomalies and support fairer programming.

HRNZ has committed to closely monitoring the implementation of the new regulation and will establish a small external team to independently review outcomes. A formal report is due in February 2026

Click here to view the official notice

From Harness Racing New Zealand