Out of adversity came heart-warming goodwill, with strong support from New Zealand’s thoroughbred racing industry to assist the Hawke’s Bay equine community directly impacted by the destruction from Cyclone Gabrielle.

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s, Dunstan Horsefeeds’ and New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders Association’s relief fund has tipped over the $100,000 mark and after some provision for emergency veterinary supplies, the balance of $85,000 will go towards feed for the industry set to be distributed by Dunstan Horsefeeds. This is in addition of the 250 bags of feed in which Dunstan has already donated.

At the same time, the two other funds that have made significant donations are from Roger James, who has assisted with day-to-day living essentials for those who suffered significant loss, while Te Akau Racing launched an appeal to raise funds for the Red Cross to support their invaluable work in the community.

Throughout this ordeal, Hawke's Bay Racing Inc. and Waipukurau Jockey Club opened their doors to the community with food, clothing and shelter for displaced and affected families, as well as acting as a vital distribution hub for medical, food, and support organisations and services.

“NZTR would like to thank all those who made donations across the multiple racing industry appeals,” said NZTR CEO Bruce Sharrock.

“A special mention must go to Hawke’s Bay Racing Inc., including Aaron Hamilton and staff, as well as the Waipukurau Jockey Club, in particular Kirsty Lawrence.

“These members of the impacted region need to be recognised for the work they have done, and will continue to do, in managing the storage of hay, baleage and distribution of feed to those directly affected.

“In a time of need, New Zealanders have always put up their hands to help, which was a heartening response to see from our industry to the wider equine community of Hawke’s Bay.

“We know this is just the start, and for many it is a massive mountain to climb to get back to some degree of normality.

“In respect of this, we now turn our attention to the Power Farming Hawke’s Bay Cup Day on 15 April.

“The Club is organising a major event not just for racegoers, but the whole Hawke’s Bay community at large. This will be an occasion to again show our support for the Hawke’s Bay public and our colleagues in the racing and equine industry in the Bay,” Sharrock said.