Punters and party-goers are out in force in Christchurch today, as the Addington Racecourse hosts the IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup.
In one of the biggest weeks of the year, around 20,000 people flocked to the racecourse today to enjoy the races and atmosphere with some calling it "Christmas," and "The best day of the year."
With the racing itself, it’s Aussie horse Leap to Fame who’s the favourite, with some calling it “The best horse in all of Australasia.”
Kiwi hope, Republican Party is also expected to do well, and is the pick of choice around the course.
Excitement is high around the course with performances from Shapeshifter and Savage scheduled to round off the day.
Races will be running all week, with Saturday’s Martin Collins New Zealand Cup, the gallops, rounding the week out.