New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing is pleased to confirm the continuation of the $1 million NZB Kiwi Bonus Pool, following the successful launch of the initiative in Year 1.

 

The first Bonus Eligible race for the 2026 edition of the NZB Kiwi will be RACE Inc's Group 1 Manawatu Sires' Produce Stakes (1400m) for two-year-olds, set to be run on Saturday, 29 March 2025 at Trentham.

 

As one of New Zealand’s premier juvenile races, the Manawatu Sires' Produce Stakes plays a pivotal role in shaping the country's rising stars. Its inclusion in the NZB Kiwi Bonus Eligible Race programme reinforces NZTR’s commitment to enhancing pathways for young talent and providing lucrative incentives for owners, trainers, and connections. Horses that perform well in this feature race will remain in contention for the $1 million Bonus Pool, making it a key target on the road to the NZB Kiwi in its second year.

 

Following the inaugural running of this year's NZB Kiwi, NZTR will look to announce a new schedule of New Zealand and Australian Bonus Eligible races which will form a part of the 2026 NZB Kiwi $1 million Bonus Pool in due course.