Glenorchy Race Day, is a true southern Kiwi experience has become an iconic local event since its inception more that 40 years ago.

Glenorchy Race Day is a real southern kiwi experience and one of the premier events on Glenorchy's social calendar.
Organised by the Glenorchy Rugby Club for over 40 years the event is held on the first Saturday after New Year.

Races include: Walk Trot Gallop; Trotting Cup; Relay Race; Stockmans Race; Saddling Race; Double Banking; Ladies Gallop; Open Gallop; Locals Gallop; Quarter Mile Sprint.

Although anyone with a horse can registers (only rule is that you wear a helmet), this is not riding for the faint hearted or inexperience. Many of the Glenorchy horse trekking staff and local stockmen/women are keen to take the Race Cups home and so the competition is high.

There is plenty to eat with the Glenorchy School BBQ, Glenorchy Kitchen's strawberries & cream and the Glenorchy Hotel’s beer tent.

Book your accommodation early or bring a tent as camping is pretty much allowed anywhere over the Race Day weekend. The Glenorchy Hotel usually put on a band so everyone can dance until closing.