Spend the week right
Mark your calendars because, as spring blankets the city in blossom and sunshine, Christchurch’s hottest week of events is set to return in style again with NZ Cup Week at Riccarton Park.
This Canterbury social highlight attracts punters from all over the country. It features high-class racing, fashion, food, and entertainment across three days (Saturday 9, Wednesday 13, and Saturday 16 November). This is when the region celebrates all that is great about spring in Christchurch.
Riccarton Park’s Chris Rowe says 2024’s event is set to be one of the best.
“We’ve got something for everyone this year. The entertainment off the track will be as thrilling as the action on it,” he says.
Saturday 9 November marks the return of NZ 2000 Guineas Day. This day also kicks off the party with The Grand Tour Racing Festival. Australian DJ sensation Hot Dub Time Machine will have everyone grooving with his iconic blend of nostalgic hits, live from the GA Stage. The Grand Tour Bar and the ZM Entertainment Zone keep the party alive all week.
This week is also Canterbury’s most fashionable. A highlight and longstanding tradition, The Ned Fashion in the Field makes a glamorous return. On Wednesday and Riccarton Cup Day, categories include everything from Best-Dressed Man to Something Borrowed, Something Blue, Millinery, Classic Racewear, and you can book a fashion package at just $165 per person, making the runway just as competitive as the track.
To take in Cup Week, a variety of ticket options are available – from early bird tickets starting at $20 for general admission to more exclusive hospitality packages for groups. There’s something for every taste and preference – whether that is enjoying the buffet luncheon included in the multipack race day package or securing a private hospitality area.
If you really want to make the most of NZ Cup Week, Riccarton Park’s VIP packages are the way to go. The Promenade Hospitality and The Promenade Villas offer elevated viewing on a raised platform with the best vantage point of the track. Perfect for larger groups of up to 50, The Promenade Private Villas is luxury redefined – complete with a private lawn, a three-stage gourmet barbecue lunch, premium beverages, a private bar, TAB facilities, and exclusive access to Member areas. Meanwhile, The Promenade Hospitality package caters to individuals who appreciate the finer things, featuring reserved seating in a shared marquee, a two-course lunch, afternoon refreshments, and a premium beverage package.
A Riccarton Park staple is the Grand National Lawn Car Park, which offers a unique twist to the traditional race day setup. Here, attendees can enjoy their own reserved car park space right next to the track, complete with access to a bar within the area – a perfect blend of convenience and class.
As NZ Cup Week at Riccarton Park approaches, the excitement is palpable. With everything in place, Chris encourages Cantabrians to grab their tickets and he is looking forward to everyone donning their finest attire in the Canterbury sun.
“It’s always a pleasure to see everyone dressed up and embracing the spirit of the week. I can’t wait to see the best of Christchurch shine on the race days.”