Family Fun At Auckland's New Years Day Races 2008

Family Fun Is On The Cards At Auckland's New Years Day Races

The New Zealand Herald Christmas Carnival continues at Ellerslie with the New Years Day race meeting, designed to appeal to all the family.

New Year's Day at Ellerslie is a perfect way to relax with family and friends over a traditional kiwi sausage sizzle on the BBQ Lawn. For the kids there's face painting, bouncy castles and fun for all to enjoy. The Radio Sport 100m 'Mascot Dash for Cash' returns, with mascots competing for national honours and prizes for their chosen charities.

While the totes don't take bets, first time runners, Toddles the Penguin and Willie the Weka, are expected to give Life Education's "Harold the Giraffe", Diabetes New Zealand' Barnaby Bee, NZ Breakers "Cheeky Kea", and last year's winner, Mr LJ Hooker Bear a run for their money. After the race, the mascots will visit the Ellerslie Infield to meet their adoring fans.

New Year's Day offers an exciting day of racing with top jockeys and horses competing for over $850,000 in prize money. The $200,000 Don Ha City of Auckland Cup offers a special bonus to the first three place-getters guaranteeing themselves a start in the iconic $700,000 Auckland Cup, run during Auckland Cup Week in March.

From the premier location of Cuvee, to the relaxed party atmosphere of the alfresco party lawn, New Years Day can be enjoyed by the whole family. The party doesn't end when the racing is over; the Birdcage Bash carries on into the night with Ellerslie's resident DJ "Jandalman" providing the entertainment.

This year a change to Ellerslie's liquor licensing means BYO alcohol will only be permitted in the Ellerslie Infield area. This change brings Ellerslie in line with contemporary licensing laws. Auckland Racing Club is happy to continue providing the infield BYO area for people to enjoy, and will provide extra outlets for alcoholic refreshments throughout other non-BYO areas.

ENDS

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