The Whangarei Racing Club is an incorporated society formed in 1920. It is a non-profit organisation with aims of promoting and assisting the sport of horse racing; as well as aiding other sporting, benevolent, and charitable organisations in the locality.

On race day several thousand members of the public (spectators), trainers, jockeys and associated people attend the racing at Ruakaka. Throughout the year the industry supports many locals in employment within the racing stables, the race club and associated businesses in Ruakaka and Whangarei. On average over 90 horses are trained at the track each week.



On-course turnover at Whangarei Racing Club meetings is always strong – out performing many metropolitan clubs. Our district encompasses all of Northland and many groups from throughout the north travel to our racedays. Being only a 90 minute drive from Auckland we attract many visitors from there also. Our Summer Festival Race meeting in January attracts approximately 7,000 attendees – many of these families on holiday in the north.

The volunteer Committee of twelve includes a mix of professions all with an interest in supporting the racing industry in Northland. Included are horse trainers, owners, local businessmen and professionals who share a passion for the industry and volunteer their time to manage the Club.

The Ruakaka facility is a key community asset. Many community groups including pony clubs, St Johns, a senior walking group, dance groups, and other organizations use the grounds and facilities at no charge. On race day charitable organizations such as Mid-western Lions and school associations perform race day functions to fundraise money – for many their major fundraising activity for the year.

The Club holds licences to race 12 times in the 2010/11 season -  refer Racing.