21/08/2025
ππππ§π ππππ€π’ππ£π & πππ©π§πππ£ππ£π ππ¨ πππ‘π‘ππ£π πππ€π§π©
We want to talk openly about whatβs happening behind the scenes with thoroughbreds leaving racing in New Zealand β and why the current system isnβt working.
Every week we see more horses come in, and the reality is tough:
β’ A number of horses arrive with issues that need time and careful management.
β’ Itβs almost impossible to rehome horses under 3 years or over 7 years, yet these ages are sent to us.
β’ We struggle with transparency from owners and trainers, which makes planning for each horse harder.
β’ Behavioural or physical issues which deem them unsuitable for rehoming.
The truth is, most thoroughbreds need:
β’ At least 3 months of spell/let-down after racing.
β’ Then 3 months of retraining before they are ready for new homes.
β’ Honesty around horses not suitable for rehoming.
But there is no financial support to keep them this long. At present, weβre only funded a small $300 arrival fee which covers for a week intake β and that doesnβt even scratch the surface of what they actually need.
We do receive a $200 fee for traceability once the horse is βRehomedβ - after paperwork is done. I pay someone to do my office work as im busy with the farm and horses.
The Bigger Picture
β’ The market value of a retrained thoroughbred is next to nothing in New Zealand, despite the huge time and costs involved.
β’ There are very few homes available, and even fewer riders who have the skillset to take on a thoroughbred straight out of racing.
β’ Once rehomed, there is almost no support for new owners, and many struggle with behavioural or soundness issues months later. Sadly, we canβt keep taking horses back β we are already overwhelmed.
β’ On top of that, we have to put safety first for our team. These are sensitive animals, and without proper resourcing itβs increasingly hard to find staff willing (or able) to do this work.
Why We Still Do It
Because we love the horses. π
We know they deserve a future beyond racing. We are trying our best to help, and to push for meaningful change in the way thoroughbreds are transitioned in New Zealand.
But we canβt do it alone. We need a system that values quality retraining, transparency, welfare, and long-term support β not just quick turnover.
Weβre sharing this not to discourage, but to raise awareness. These horses deserve better, and with the right change, we believe they can get it.
We are open to suggestions on how to improved.
