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Ellerslie Infield
Boxing Day, 28th Dec & New Year's Day at The New Zealand Herald Christmas Carnival

Swap the fascinators for the flip flops and experience this favourite kiwi pastime - boot parties at the races! Whether you're keen to live it up or simply relax and recover from the night before, the Ellerslie Infield can be (just about) whatever you want to make of it! 

BUT! Before you get too carried away... check out some of the finer details and regulations below:

Who is allowed in the Infield?
The Infield is available for the general public for picnics and carparking.

How much does it cost to get into the Infield?
The cost to get into the infield is the same as standard racecourse admission:
  • Boxing Day - $20 per adult OR get four for $40* (*until 5pm, 23 Dec), children under 15 years free 
  • New Year's Day - $10 per adult, children under 15 years free).

You can pay for admission on the day or you can purchase online.

How much does a carpark cost?
You do not have to pay to bring a car into the Infield - standard carparking is available on a first-in, first-served basis.

However, if you would like to enquire about a Reserved Carpark (limited spaces available) please contact Alex Day, Raceday Hospitality Co-ordinator on 09 522 3824 or email hospitality@ellerslie.co.nz. Please note: Reserved parking is available on Boxing Day only.

What's the best way to get there and avoid traffic delays?
Download a traffic access map here.

Can I get onto the other side of the course from the Infield?
Yes, there is a pedestrian tunnel which will take you through to the other side of the course. Please note that you cannot take alcohol between the two areas.

Are there facilities (totes, toilets, food & beverage outlets) in the Infield?
Yes, on Boxing Day, 28th December & New Year's Day there are such facilities available.

What is the dress code in the Infield?
Dress it up or dress it down - it's your choice! Unlike the rest of the course, you do not have to wear traditional raceday attire in the Infield. If shorts and jandals are more your thing - go for it!

However, please note that a dress code does apply to certain areas of the course (including the Birdcage Bash after the last race) so if you do wish to go to those areas, you will need to dress to the code.

When is access available into the Infield?
From 9am. Please note that vehicles, equipment, and materials brought to the Infield are at the risk of the individual.

Can I BYO alcohol into the Ellerslie Infield?
You may bring in a reasonable amount of alcohol into the Infield (only). Please note that no kegs are allowed and intoxicated persons will not be permitted or tolerated.

Am I allowed to play my own music?
Any music systems must be operated in a manner that is directed by the ARC.  Loud music, unacceptable types of music, playing music whilst the races are running and any other behaviour deemed inappropriate by the ARC will result in the individual being asked to reduce the music to an acceptable level and failure may result in the individual being asked to leave the course. 

Can I sell or promote goods and/or services in the Infield?
There can be no commercial ventures in the infield.  No one may sell or promote alcohol, food, products or access to marquees/areas that are in the infield or at any other event.

No banners, marquees, shade umbrellas, tents, shade tents, signage or equipment used in the infield shall carry a corporate or company logo, insignia or brand. The ARC reserves the right to remove all such material from the site forthwith.

Haven't found the answer you were looking for? Either call us on 09 524 4069 or email hospitality@ellerslie.co.nz.