Get race ready in Christchurch

It is nearly time for the greatest few days of fun and fashion as Ōtautahi’s Cup & Show Week approaches! Here are some top tips for getting race day ready.

Are you sorted for the Show Week races?

The pinnacle of entertainment, The IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup Day takes place at Addington Raceway on Tuesday, 11 November and the Al Basti Equiworld 53rd New Zealand 2000 Guineas at Riccarton Park takes place on Saturday, 15 November. Here's how to get race day ready.

Shoppers enjoying laneway shopping at The Crossing Christchurch.

Shop the raceday look

There is nothing better than getting dressed to the nines for Cup Week, and that all starts with a fabulous outfit. Remember you don’t want to leave it until the day before! Head into town and check out the range of fashion boutiques at The Crossing and along Cashel Street, or into Ballantynes Contemporary Lounge.

Don't forget about accessories either, especially a fabulous head piece. Also consider booking in your hair and makeup for the morning of, this will relieve all of the stress and pressure from the morning so you can sit back and enjoy getting pampered.

Brunch before the races

What better way is there to kick off race days than with a few bubbles and brunch? So many Christchurch restaurants and cafes love to get involved in Cup Week with special brunch events and deals, so have a look around and be sure to get your booking in ASAP!

If you want to be part of the buzz in the city try some of the favourite spots along The Terrace such as King of Snake, or other fun options around town including Muy Muy or The Tannery.

Sort raceday transport

Getting to Addington is easy if you jump in a taxi or Uber. Ask your driver to take you to the entrance at Wolfbrook Arena where you will be directed to the drop off zone. The entrance can be accessed via Twiggers Street and Jack Hinton Drive off Whiteleigh Ave.

For Riccarton Park Racecourse you can access this off Racecourse Road.

Buy your tickets and have a ball

For any big day out, it is important you have the essentials on hand to get you through unscathed.

Hopefully the sun will be shining so be sure you have your sunscreen on and even better if you have a gorgeous hat to shade yourself throughout the day.

A big day on your feet can lead to blisters so a few band aids tucked in your pocket is never a bad idea. And lastly be sure to enjoy the hospitality and enjoy some of the delicious food vendors on site to keep your energy high!

You have your outfit sorted, brunch booked and plan of attack in place. The last thing to do is buy your tickets for Addington and Riccarton and you are good to go!