The 2025 Arrowfield Stud Plate ran on Saturday, September 27, at Te Rapa, as the newly renamed Howden Insurance Mile and was won in an upset by the improving Waitak ($9.60)!
| 3. Waitak (14) J: Craig Grylls 59kg 611X0T: Lance O'Sullivan & Andrew Scott | ||
| 12. La Crique (5) J: Matthew Cameron 57kg 222X2T: Simon & Katrina Alexander | ||
| 2. Ladies Man (12) J: Matt Cartwright 59kg 44X35T: Allan Sharrock | ||
| 6. Sterling Express (8) J: Masa Hashizume 59kg 10114T: Mark Brosnan | ||
| 11. Legarto (3) J: Vinnie Colgan 57kg X13X6T: Ken & Bev Kelso | ||
| 10. Tuxedo (13) J: George Rooke 58.5kg 17X17T: Shaune Ritchie & Colm Murray | ||
| 1. El Vencedor (10) J: Wiremu Pinn 59kg 110X5T: Stephen Marsh | ||
| 4. Sharp 'N' Smart (11) J: Sam Weatherley 59kg 09X74T: Team Rogerson | ||
| 14. Qali Al Farrasha (6) J: Bruno Queiroz 57kg 223X8T: Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson | ||
| 8. Matscot (9) J: Joe Doyle 59kg 364X7T: Sharon Robertson and Alan Reeves | ||
| 7. Habana (2) J: Warren Kennedy 59kg 50X30T: Lance Noble | ||
| 15. Val Di Zoldo (1) J: Samantha Collett 57kg 711X7T: Tony Pike | ||
| 9. Herbert (7) J: Kelly Myers 59kg 120X0T: John Wheeler | ||
| 5. Whangaehu (4) J: Jonathan Riddell 59kg 3458XT: Bill Thurlow and Sam O’Malley |
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Info
- 2025 Race Name: Howden Insurance Mile
- 2025 Arrowfield Stud Plate Date: Saturday the 27th of September 2025
- Track Location: Te Rapa Racecourse, Hamilton
- Distance: 1,600m
- Conditions: Weight-For-Age; 3YOs & Upwards
- Status: Group 1
- Prize Money (NZ) : $400,000
- First Run: 2000
- Reigning Arrowfield Stud Plate Winner: Waitak (2025)
Looking for the latest Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) betting odds, insider racing tips and form for the Te Rapa Group 1 race this September? The TAB NZ have all the best betting guides and statistics to make informed bets on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) race this spring!
The Arrowfield Stud Plate (formerly known as the Windsor Park Plate and currently known as the Howden Insurance Trophy), is a Group 1 race over 1600m held at Te Rapa, New Zealand. It is the second leg of the Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown, and many of its winners have gone on to achieve greatness both locally and internationally.
It is the second Group 1 race of the New Zealand racing season, typically held in late September.
In 2025 the event has been renamed the Howden Insurance Mile due to new sponsorship and will run at Te Rapa for the first time!
It is considered one of New Zealand’s leading weight-for-age races and attracts some of the best gallopers in the country with NZ$400,000 in prize money.
To improve your chances of predicting the next Arrowfield Stud Plate winner, access the latest Arrowfield Stud Plate odds and tips online at the TAB NZ.
TAB NZ provides in-depth analysis, form guides, and betting insights to help you navigate the competitive field of spring contenders.
Whether you’re a seasoned punter or new to betting on the horse races in New Zealand and Australia, our comprehensive Arrowfield Stud Plate coverage has everything you need.
Back a Kiwi champion on home turf! Bet on the Howden Insurance Mile this season with TAB NZ!
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Fast Facts
- Last mare to win the Arrowfield Stud Plate: Mustang Valley (2023)
- Last favourite to win the Arrowfield Stud Plate: Mustang Valley ($2.30 in 2023)
- Last dual Arrowfield Stud Plate winner: Melody Belle (2018, 2019, 2020)
- Notable Fact: In 2019, Melody Belle became the first horse in history to win the Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown!
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurnace Mile) betting takes place on the iconic New Zealand race which is held at Te Rapa Racecourse hosted by the Hawke’s Bay Racing Club on a Saturday in late September annually to continue Group 1 racing for the new season!
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) odds are offered on the popular Group 1 WFA event, and the field attracts a host of quality gallopers many of which are coming off eyeing other Group 1 spring majors both in New Zealand and across the Tasman in Sydney and Melbourne.
Officially registered as the Horlicks Plate, this race has seen several name changes throughout its history. Prior to 2022, it was known as the Windsor Park Plate, reflecting its sponsorship by Windsor Park Stud before Arrowfield Stud took over naming rights. Earlier iterations included the Stoney Bridge Stakes (2004-2008), the Glenmorgan Generous Stakes (2003, when run at Otaki), and the Glenmorgan Hawkes Bay Challenge Stakes.
It was again renamed ahead of the 2025 edition to the Howden Insurance Mile, with leading global insurance broker Howden Insurance given naming rights as the event’s new sponsor, following its temporary relocation from Hawke’s Bay to Te Rapa.
Its prime calendar slot, weight-for-age conditions, and the region’s reliably dry spring weather consistently attract an elite field, establishing it as a favoured launching pad for horses aiming for lucrative Australian campaigns later in the season.
The Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) is one of Hamilton’s most important horse races and has been run and won since 2000 when The Message won.
It has been a key event on New Zealand’s racing calendar for over a quarter of a century and continues to attract the best horses, jockeys and trainers from across the country and Australia.
The Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) has been won by some of the most iconic horses in New Zealand racing history including a number of subsequent Cox Plate champions.
Among its most famous winners is Melody Belle, who dominated the race with three consecutive victories from 2018 to 2020, contributing to her record 14 Group 1 wins. Other standout champions include Gingernuts (2017), Kawi (2016), and Seachange, who won back-to-back editions in 2006 and 2007. Starcraft, the 2004 winner, later became an international Group 1 victor, enhancing the race’s reputation as a launchpad for global success. The race continues to attract elite milers and remains a highlight of New Zealand’s racing calendar.
Winning the Arrowfield Stud Plate is a significant achievement in the racing community, and the event attracts lots of attention from punters both locally and internationally in Australia.
It is the second leg of the prestigious Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown, which includes the:
- Tarzino Trophy (Proisir Plate) – 1400m (Group 1): Saturday, 6 September 2025
- Arrowfield Stud Plate (renamed in 2025 as the Howden Insurance Mile) – 1600m (Group 1): Saturday, 27 September 2025
- Livamol Classic (Spring Classic) – 2040m (Group 1): Saturday, 18 October 2025
This carnival is held at Te Rapa Racecourse and is one of the highlights of the New Zealand racing calendar, attracting top-class horses, trainers, and punters from across the country and Australia.
Starting out as a Group 3 race, in 2001 it was elevated to Group 2 grade before reaching its current Group 1 status in 2005 the year Miss Potential won.
2025 Howden Insurance Mile Day
The 2025 Howden Insurance Mile Day, held on Saturday, 27 September at Te Rapa Racecourse, Hamilton, New Zealand, is one of the most anticipated events on the country’s racing calendar. The headline event, the Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate, is run over 1600m under weight-for-age conditions and offers a prize pool of NZ$400,000. In 2025 the feature race is known as the Howden Insurance Mile. Open to horses aged three years and older, it serves as the second leg of the prestigious Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown, nestled between the Tarzino Trophy (Proisir Plate) and the Livamol Classic.
The day features several standout races, including the Gold Trail Stakes (Group 3), which is the first leg of the New Zealand Filly of the Year Series, and the Hawke’s Bay Guineas (Group 2), a key race for three-year-old colts and geldings. These races often serve as stepping-stones for horses aiming for higher honours later in the season.
Beyond the racing, Howden Insurance Mile Day is a vibrant social occasion. It includes the ever-popular Fashion in the Field competition, live music and DJ performances, and a showcase of Hawke’s Bay’s renowned food and wine. The event is family-friendly, with dedicated zones and entertainment for children, making it a day out for all ages.
Locally, the event is a major drawcard for tourism, significantly boosting the region’s hospitality and accommodation sectors. It celebrates New Zealand’s rich racing heritage and supports local businesses, while also attracting top-tier horses, trainers, and jockeys from across the country and beyond. The Arrowfield Stud Plate itself is a crucial form guide for the Livamol Classic and has been won by some of the nation’s most celebrated racehorses, cementing its importance in the spring racing season.
Key Races:
Howden Insurance Mile Day is part of the Hawke’s Bay Spring Carnival and features several high-profile races:
- Howden Insurance Mile (G1) – The headline event and second leg of the Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown.
- Gold Trail Stakes (G3) – A key race for 3-year-old fillies and the first leg of the New Zealand Filly of the Year Series.
- Hawke’s Bay Guineas (G2) – A major race for 3-year-old colts and geldings, often a springboard to further Group 1 success.
Get the best Howden Insurance Mile Day racing odds, racing stats, previews, form and insider tips on races like the meeting’s feature Group 1 race now at the TAB NZ!
Expert Tips on the 2025 Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile)
Stay tuned for our expert tips and Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) betting predictions ahead of this year’s Group 1 feature.
To Win: No. 12 La Crique ($5 at time of publish) – BET NOW
A wide-open edition of the renamed Arrowfield Stud Plate (now Howden Insurance Mile) and there’s half a dozen that could win without surprise. I’ve landed on the current co-favourite LA CRIQUE (6) second-up to end her frustrating run of second placings and return to winning form second-up. This consistent seven-year-old Vadamos mare has finished runner-up without disgrace in her latest five outings including her game first-up performance behind Quintessa in the Group 1 Proisir Plate (1400m) when racing three wide without cover. She looks well placed to turn the tables fitter for the run and boasting an excellent second-up record (6 4-1-1). Her latest win came second-up in November’s Group 2 Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes. Matthew Cameron comes aboard and has previous Group 1 winning form on this class mare. She will relish getting up to a mile now which she’s got a lovely strike-rate over (8 4-2-1), looks set to settle midfield and can finish strongly over the top of them.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Tips
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) tips on which horse will win the next edition of the 1600m feature flood in as the countdown to the important Hawke’s Bay race heats up.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) race tips on what horse will win the event this year are highly sought after by smart punters and racing fans every season.
When looking at the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) race tips it is important to consider factors including:
- What horses in the field are proven over the 1,600m distance?
- Who the key trainers and jockeys are and what horses they have in the field this year?
- Barrier statistics and where your betting selections are drawn.
- Horses that have a good past record at the track.
How long does it take to know if you placed a winning Arrowfield Stud Plate race tip? The event itself takes around 1 and a half minutes for the competing horses to run the 1,600m trip depending on track conditions.
The official Arrowfield Stud Plate winner and winning Arrowfield Stud Plate trifecta are known shortly after unless there is a protest or a photo-finish result.
Who holds the Arrowfield Stud Plate race record? Melody Belle for her third success in 2020 set the Arrowfield Stud Plate race record winning in 1 minute 33.88 seconds on a Good track.
What are the best Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) lead-up races to look at when placing an Arrowfield Stud Plate bet?
A key lead-up to the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) is the opening leg of the Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown, the Group 1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m), renamed the Proisir Plate and held at Ellerslie Racecourse in Auckland in 2025.
Callsign Mav (2021) was the last horse to complete the Tarzino Trophy – Arrowfield Stud Plate double.
New Zealand Bred Horses in the Arrowfield Stud Plate
Betting on the New Zealand-bred horses in the field is popular with Kiwi punters, and the race results show an absolutely dominant record of New Zealand foaled Arrowfield Stud Plate winners in recent history.
Since 2000 there has been just three Arrowfield Stud Plate winners foaled outside of New Zealand with Miss Potential (AUS) in 2005, Princess Coup (AUS) in 2008, and most recently Pure Champion (IRE) in 2014.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Tips for a Trifecta
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) tips for a trifecta cover the first three horses to officially go past the finishing post in the Arrowfield Stud Plate results.
The horse to finish on top of the Arrowfield Stud Plate trifecta is your Arrowfield Stud Plate winner, the runner who outlasted all their rivals and finished in the fastest time.
Placing an Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) trifecta exotic bet on the race is a great way to add to the thrill and potentially be rewarded with a generous pay-out.
An Arrowfield Stud Plate trifecta is only successful if the three horses in your bet finish in the exact order you predict. Punters may choose instead to box their trifecta bets on the Arrowfield Stud Plate to cover more finishing options and increase the chances of winning.
Adding the favourites in your Arrowfield Stud Plate trifecta bets is a top tip as the favourites have a solid recent strike-rate finishing in the money.
Key Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Statistics and Insights
Place an informed bet on this year’s Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) by considering the following key statistics and insights:
- Win Rates: Horses with high win rates in similar races are strong contenders for the Arrowfield Stud Plate. Our Arrowfield Stud Plate betting tips available at the TAB NZ Punters Lounge provide detailed win rate statistics.
- Place Percentages: Evaluate horses with consistent place percentages, indicating reliability and competitiveness. Arrowfield Stud Plate race tips offer comprehensive data on place percentages.
- Barrier Success Rates: Horses starting from single digit barriers have a strong success rate in the Arrowfield Stud Plate.
Bet on the next Howden Insurance Mile now!
Past Arrowfield Stud Plate / Howden Insurance Mile Results
Recent Arrowfield Stud Plate / Howden Insurance Mile winners, jockeys, trainers, barriers, and weights carried to victory dating back to the year 2005 are detailed in the below table.
| Year | Winner – Age/Gender
Breeding |
Jockey | Weight (kgs) | Trainer/s | Barrier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WAITAK (NZ) 6G PROISIR – REPO BAY (NZ) SHOCKING (AUS) |
CRAIG GRYLLS | 59.0 | LANCE O’SULLIVAN & ANDREW SCOTT | 14 | |
| ONE BOLD CAT (NZ) 6G THE BOLD ONE (NZ) – FLOOZIE CAT (NZ) ONE COOL CAT (USA) |
RYAN ELLIOT | 59.0 | R PATTERSON | 4 | |
| MUSTANG VALLEY (NZ) 5M VANBRUGH (AUS) – CREAM OF THE CROP (AUS) NEW APPROACH (IRE) |
JOE DOYLE | 57.0 | ANDREW FORSMAN | 6 | |
| LA CRIQUE (NZ) 4M VADAMOS (FR) – DESTINY COVE (AUS) DUBAI DESTINATION (USA) |
C J GRYLLS | 56.5 | SIMON & KATRINA ALEXANDER | 2 | |
| CALLSIGN MAV (NZ) 5G ATLANTE (AUS) – RAADISI (NZ) VOLKSRAAD (GB) |
J K RIDDELL | 59.0 | JOHN BARY | 7 | |
| MELODY BELLE (NZ) 6M COMMANDS (AUS) – MELEKA BELLE (NZ) IFFRAAJ (GB) |
T N HARRIS | 57.0 | JAMIE RICHARDS | 3 | |
| MELODY BELLE (NZ) 5M COMMANDS (AUS) – MELEKA BELLE (NZ) IFFRAAJ (GB) |
O P BOSSON | 57.0 | JAMIE RICHARDS | 6 | |
| MELODY BELLE (NZ) 4M COMMANDS (AUS) – MELEKA BELLE (NZ) IFFRAAJ (GB) |
SHARIF RUSOF | 56.5 | JAMIE RICHARDS | 1 | |
| GINGERNUTS (NZ) 4G IFFRAAJ (GB) – DOUBLE ELLE (NZ) GENEROUS (IRE) |
O P BOSSON | 58.5 | STEPHEN AUTRIDGE | 6 | |
| KAWI (NZ) 6G SAVABEEL (AUS) – MAGIC TIME (NZ) VOLKSRAAD (GB) |
L G INNES | 59.0 | A SHARROCK | 9 | |
| JULINSKY PRINCE (NZ) 6G DARCI BRAHMA (NZ) – JULINSKY PRINCESS (NZ) STRAVINSKY (USA) |
J PARKES | 59.0 | FRASER AURET | 4 | |
| PURE CHAMPION (IRE) 7H FOOTSTEPSINTHESAND (GB) – CASTARA BEACH (IRE) DANEHILL (USA) |
C J GRYLLS | 59.0 | LANCE O’SULLIVAN & ANDREW SCOTT | 5 | |
| XANADU (NZ) 5M ELUSIVE CITY (USA) – FOREST DREAM (AUS) FOREST GLOW (USA) |
M T COLEMAN | 57.0 | KEN & BEV KELSO | 3 | |
| MUFHASA (NZ) 8G PENTIRE (GB) – SHEILA CHEVAL (NZ) MI PREFERIDO (USA) |
S C SPRATT | 59.0 | STEPHEN MCKEE | 10 | |
| JIMMY CHOUX (NZ) 4H THORN PARK (AUS) – CIERZO (NZ) CENTAINE (AUS) |
J K RIDDELL | 58.5 | JOHN BARY | 9 | |
| WALL STREET (NZ) 6G MONTJEU (IRE) – VILLA WANDA (GB) GRAND LODGE (USA) |
M T COLEMAN | 59.0 | JEFF LYNDS | 6 | |
| DAFFODIL (NZ) 4M NO EXCUSE NEEDED (GB) – SPRING (NZ) O’REILLY (NZ) |
H S TINSLEY | 56.5 | KEVIN GRAY | 7 | |
| PRINCESS COUP (AUS) 5M ENCOSTA DE LAGO (AUS) – STONEYFELL ROAD (AUS) SOVEREIGN RED (NZ) |
O P BOSSON | 56.5 | MARK WALKER | 11 | |
| SEACHANGE (NZ) 5M CAPE CROSS (IRE) – JUST CRUISING (AUS) BROAD REACH (NZ) |
G MCKEON | 56.5 | R R MANNING | 4 | |
| SEACHANGE (NZ) 4M CAPE CROSS (IRE) – JUST CRUISING (AUS) BROAD REACH (NZ) |
G MCKEON | 56.0 | R R MANNING | 7 | |
| MISS POTENTIAL (AUS) 7M DOLPHIN STREET (FR) – RICHFIELD ROSE (NZ) CRESTED WAVE (USA) |
B R JONES | 56.0 | BILL BORRIE | 13 |
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Betting Info
Arrowfield Stud Plate betting on the race renamed in 2025 as the Howden Insurance Mile is open months ahead of the Group 1 Te Rapa, spring weight-for-age race at the TAB NZ.
We offer pre-nomination Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) betting odds throughout the year that are known as futures Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) odds online.
All-In Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) betting markets are then available following the official Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) nominations which close in late July.
Betting on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) field is available following final acceptances on the Wednesday of race week.
Betting on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) favours the locally trained champions from the best New Zealand horse racing stables.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) race betting traditionally focuses on any past Group 1 winners who have an outstanding record in the event and the female gallopers in the race who have a dominant recent record in the early spring showdown over their male counterparts.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) race tips centre on the standout WFA champion thoroughbreds in New Zealand and Australia that have good lead-up form in similar grade events from the winter or early spring, horses with previous experience at the track and the runners from the key stables who have dominated Arrowfield Stud Plate race results.
The Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) is a weight-for-age event open to runners three and above.
2025 Arrowfield Stud (Howden Insurance Mile) Plate Field
Nominations: 29 July 2025 4:00PM.
Withdrawals: 12 September 2025 10:00AM.
Riders: 24 September 2025 1:00PM.
Where can you bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) ?
The best place to bet on this year’s Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) race is through the TAB NZ online.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Odds
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) odds and online betting tips on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) horse race in New Zealand are dominated by proven Group 1 horses, the locally trained milers in the race and backing the runners in the mix drawn a mid-field gate who have a strong recent record in the event.
Where can I find the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) odds?
For the latest odds and updates on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile), TAB NZ is your go-to source. They provide real-time odds fluctuations, ensuring you have the most current information to make informed betting decisions. It’s crucial to monitor these odds closely, as they reflect the market’s perception of each horse’s chances, influenced by factors like form, barrier draw, and track conditions.
How to Place a Bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile)
Want to know how to make a bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile)? Visit the TAB NZ racing page to access the latest Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) betting odds and options.
It is simple to learn how to place a bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) online.
You can place an Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) bet online anytime markets are live.
There are more ways than ever to get involved in betting on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile).
From seasoned punters analysing form guides to casual racing fans drawn to the excitement, the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) is a race for everyone.
Whether you’re diving deep into the latest Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) race field, joining a sweepstake with friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of spring racing, the Arrowfield Stud Plate has it all!
This important spring race showcases New Zealand’s finest thoroughbreds and attracts attention from all over the country and in Australia as one of the best events in the season!
How to Bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) this year?
1. Log in or sign-up with TAB NZ.
2. Make a secure online deposit using one of the TAB NZ safe deposit methods.
3. Check out the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) betting guide, Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) form guide and our expert Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) tips.
4. Choose an Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) bet to place such as Win, Place, Each-Way or Arrowfield Stud Plate Trifecta. There are many more Arrowfield Stud Plate betting options available so make sure to check out our Arrowfield Stud Plate betting markets.
5. Select the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) horse you want to bet on from the early markets, Arrowfield Stud Plate nominations or Arrowfield Stud Plate field.
What are the popular betting markets for the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile)?
When it comes to betting on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile), there are a number of more popular betting options with punters including:
Exotics: These include Quinella, Trifecta, and First Four, where you predict the specific order of finishers, offering potentially higher payouts but requiring more precise predictions.
Win & Place: Bet on a horse to win or finish in the top places. This is one of the most straightforward and popular betting options.
Each-Way: A combination of win and place bets, providing a safety net if your chosen horse doesn’t win but finishes in the top positions.
Arrowfield Stud Plate Prize Money (Howden Insurance Mile)
The Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) prize money is set at NZ$400,000 in total stakes allocated between first to tenth place.
How much does the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) winner get?
The winning Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) horse receives a total of NZ$230,000 in prize money.
See below for the official breakdown of Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) prizes on offer from the Arrowfield Stud Plate winner to the tenth horse to cross the finish line in the official Arrowfield Stud Plate results.
First: NZ$230,000
Second: NZ$74,000
Third: NZ$36,000
Fourth: NZ$20,000
Fifth: NZ$10,000
Sixth – Tenth: NZ$6,000
How many horses have won the Arrowfield Stud Plate twice?
Since the year 2000, three horses have won multiple editions of the Arrowfield Stud Plate, most recently three-time champion Melody Belle (2018-20).
Multiple Arrowfield Stud Plate winners since 2000: Hello Dolly (2001-2), Seachange (2006-07), Melody Belle (2018-20).
What makes betting on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) so popular?
The fact that the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) is one of the earlier Group 1 races run during the spring in New Zealand and one of the key September horse races in Australasia make it a must watch and must bet on racing event.
Second Group 1 of the Season: It marks the continuation of Group 1 racing season in New Zealand, generating immense anticipation as top horses continue to return to action after the winter break, following on from the Tarzino Trophy – renamed in 2025 as the Proisir Plate.
Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown Leg: The race is the second leg of the prestigious Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown adding a narrative of championship pursuit that captivates racing enthusiasts. In 2025 however the races will be run at Ellerslie at Te Rapa having temporarily been relocated from Hawke’s Bay.
Elite Weight-for-Age Conditions: Run under weight-for-age conditions, it attracts the highest caliber of gallopers, including many targeting lucrative Australian spring campaigns, ensuring a strong and competitive field.
Strategic Timing: Its late September slot in the spring carnival, coupled with reliably dry weather in the region, provides an ideal launching pad for horses aiming for bigger targets later in the spring, both domestically and across the Tasman.
Substantial Prize Money: With a prize purse of NZ$400,000, it’s a significant incentive for connections, further ensuring a quality lineup.
Punter Interest: For punters, it’s an exciting opportunity to see the stars of the turf return, assess their form, and get an early read on potential spring champions, making it a key betting event.
For the best online betting on the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile), consider tipping a horse to win both the Arrowfield Stud Plate and another Group 1 race over the carnival in a spring race double!
The race’s competitive nature and the presence of high-profile horses provide numerous betting opportunities, from win/place bets to exotic bets like trifectas and quinellas.
How many mares have won the Arrowfield Stud Plate?
Since the year 2000, 13 editions of the Arrowfield Stud Plate have been won by the mares, most recently Mustang Valley (2023).
What age group has the best recent the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) record?
Six-year-olds have dominated the Arrowfield Stud Plate results in recent years with 8 saluting between 2000 and 2025, most recently Waitak (2025).
The youngest recent Arrowfield Stud Plate winner was La Crique who became the latest four-year-old to win in 2022.
The oldest recent Arrowfield Stud Plate winner was Mufhasa who saluted as an eight-year-old in 2012.
Between 2000 and 2025 the breakdown of Arrowfield Stud Plate winners by age is as follows:
3YOs – 0
4YOs – 7 (latest La Crique in 2022)
5YOs – 6 (latest Mustang Valley in 2023)
6YOs – 8 (latest Waitak in 2025)
7YOs – 4 (latest Pure Champion 2014)
8YOs – 1 (latest Mufhasa in 2012)
What races will runners out of the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) target next?
Many runners out of the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) will race on and target other Spring Racing Carnival features including the Group 1 Livamol Classic (2040m) held in early October and December’s Group 1 Mufhasa TAB Classic (1600m) at Trentham.
Waitak (2025) was the last horse to complete the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) – Livamol Classic double in the same year.
In 2019 Melody Belle became the inaugural Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown champion winning the Tarzino Trophy – Arrowfield Stud Plate – Livamol Classic treble!
Julinsky Prince (2015) was the last horse to complete the Arrowfield Stud Plate – Mufhasa TAB Classic double.
Horses out of the Arrowfield Stud Plate may also choose to head to Australia for the spring targeting an event like the Group 1 Might And Power (2000m) at Caulfield in October or the Group 1 Champions Stakes (2000m) on the final day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Barriers
The Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) barrier draw and allocated starting gates play a key role for many punters when deciding on what horses to bet on in the big race.
What is the most successful recent Arrowfield Stud Plate barrier draw?
Barrier six has produced five Arrowfield Stud Plate winners between 2000 and 2025, most recently Mustang Valley in 2023.
Barrier 14 is the widest gate to produce an Arrowfield Stud Plate winner between 2000 and 2025, most recently Waitak in 2025.
Barrier 14 is the latest Arrowfield Stud Plate winning barrier with Waitak in 2025.
Breakdown of winning Arrowfield Stud Plate barriers between 2000-25:
Barrier 1 – 2 (latest Melody Belle in 2018)
Barrier 2 – 2 (latest La Crique in 2022)
Barrier 3 – 2 (latest Melody Belle in 2020)
Barrier 4 – 3 (latest One Bold Cat in 2024)
Barrier 5 – 2 (latest Pure Champion in 2014)
Barrier 6 – 5 (latest Mustang Valley in 2023)
Barrier 7 – 3 (latest Callsign Mav in 2021)
Barrier 8 – 0
Barrier 9 – 3 (latest Kawi in 2016)
Barrier 10 – 1 (latest Mufhasa in 2012)
Barrier 11 – 1 (latest Princess Coup in 2008)
Barrier 12 – 0
Barrier 13 – 1 (latest Miss Potential in 2005)
Barrier 14 – 1 (latest Waitak in 2025)
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Form
We offer a complete Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) form guide and expert analysis on every horse in the Arrowfield Stud Plate field in addition to insider Arrowfield Stud Plate racing tips and betting odds.
Our Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) form guides include:
- Arrowfield Stud Plate race preview and predictions
- Racing analysis on the event and runners
- Previous runs, barrier trials and lead-up statistics
- Key information on all horses in the race like trainer and jockey form
- Runner commentary
Whether you are just starting out tipping horses in the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) or you are an expert Arrowfield Stud Plate tipster, our form guide gives you all the statistics and information you need to make a smart bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate.
How to Read the Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Form Guide
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how to interpret a horse’s form and performance indicators when looking at this year’s Arrowfield Stud Plate form guide:
Barrier Position: Evaluate the horse’s barrier draw and its historical performance from similar starting positions.
Recent Performances: Review the horse’s last few races, focusing on finish positions and the quality of competition faced.
Track and Distance Records: Check the horse’s performance on similar track conditions and distances to gauge suitability.
Jockey and Trainer Stats: Consider the success rates of the jockey and trainer combination, particularly in the Arrowfield Stud Plate race.
Weight Carried: Analyse how the weight carried in previous races compares to the Arrowfield Stud Plate as this can impact performance.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Results
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) results are known when the event takes place in September annually.
You can bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate race results weeks ahead of race day with our futures Arrowfield Stud Plate markets here at the TAB NZ.
Betting on the Arrowfield Stud Plate results entails picking the Arrowfield Stud Plate winning horse and we can help you place an informed bet on the Arrowfield Stud Plate field with our Arrowfield Stud Plate tips and form guide.
Other Arrowfield Stud Plate race results include the winning jockeys, trainers, successful barrier and finishing time.
The complete Arrowfield Stud Plate finishing order shows what position every horse in the field ran.
Some punters even like to place bets on what horse will finish last in the Arrowfield Stud Plate results!
Arrowfield Stud Plate exotic results show how all the exotic Arrowfield Stud Plate bet types resulted like the Arrowfield Stud Plate Quinella, Arrowfield Stud Plate Exacta, Arrowfield Stud Plate Trifecta, and Arrowfield Stud Plate First Four.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Jockeys
Securing a ride in the Arrowfield Stud Plate field is a highly sought-after achievement for jockeys around New Zealand and Australia. Winning this important spring race is a nice campaign goal for many of Australasia’s top riders looking to secure a Group 1 trophy during the carnival.
What jockeys are riding in the Arrowfield Stud Plate field is determined by the owners and trainers of the horses, and official the Arrowfield Stud Plate jockey announcements are made in the weeks and days leading up to the race.
Craig Grylls is the latest Arrowfield Stud Plate winning jockey having ridden Waitak to victory in 2025.
Gavin McKeon on Seachange (2006-07) is the last back-to-back Arrowfield Stud Plate winning jockey.
Opie Bosson, who has won the race three times, is the most successful recent Arrowfield Stud Plate winning jockey with victories aboard Princess Coup (2008), Gingernuts (2017) and Melody Belle (2019).
Stay tuned to the TAB NZ racing blog to see what jockeys lock in a confirmed ride on one of the Arrowfield Stud Plate horses this summer.
Arrowfield Stud Plate (Howden Insurance Mile) Trainers
Jamie Richards it the most successful recent Arrowfield Stud Plate winning trainer with four victories with Melody Belle (2018, 2019, 2020) and Gingernuts (2017) who he co-trained with Stephen Autridge.
Jamie Richards is the latest back-to-back Arrowfield Stud Plate winning trainer with his three-time champion Melody Belle (2018-20).
Lance O’Sullivan & Andrew Scott are the latest Arrowfield Stud Plate winning trainers having prepared Waitak in 2025.
Arrowfield Stud Plate / Howden Insurance Mile Winners
Notable Arrowfield Stud Plate / Howden Insurance Mile winners throughout history include:
Starcraft (2004): Starcraft’s win in this race was part of a dominant spring campaign. He later went on to win Group 1 races in Australia, the UK, and France, making him one of the most internationally successful New Zealand-trained horses of the modern era.
Miss Potential (2005): Miss Potential’s win was a heartwarming story. After recovering from a serious injury earlier in her career, she returned to Group 1 glory in this race. Her resilience and determination made her one of the most admired mares of her time.
Seachange (2006 & 2007): Seachange was a brilliant mare who won the race twice, showcasing her consistency and class. She was a multiple Group 1 winner and a two-time New Zealand Horse of the Year, known for her explosive finishes and versatility.
Princess Coup (2008): Princess Coup was a dominant middle-distance mare who added this race to her impressive résumé. A dual New Zealand Horse of the Year, she also won the Kelt Capital Stakes (now Livamol Classic) twice and placed in the Caulfield Cup.
Daffodil (2009): Daffodil’s win in the Arrowfield Stud Plate was part of a stellar career that included victories in the New Zealand Oaks and the Australian Oaks. Her versatility across distances and countries made her a standout filly of her generation.
Wall Street (2010): Wall Street was a late bloomer who hit peak form as a five-year-old. His win in this race was part of a Group 1 treble that season, including the Spring Classic and the Emirates Stakes in Australia.
Jimmy Choux (2011): Jimmy Choux’s victory in this race was a key part of his campaign that saw him finish second in the Cox Plate. A New Zealand Derby winner, he was known for his fighting spirit and later became a successful sire.
Mufhasa (2012): Mufhasa was a dual New Zealand Horse of the Year and a 10-time Group 1 winner. His win in the Arrowfield Stud Plate added to a glittering career that spanned multiple seasons and distances.
Kawi (2016): Kawi was a dominant force in New Zealand racing, and his win in this race was one of seven Group 1 victories. Known for his powerful finishes, he was a regular feature in the Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown races.
Gingernuts (2017): Gingernuts, a charismatic chestnut with a cult following, won this race as part of a campaign that included the New Zealand Derby and Rosehill Guineas. His quirky personality and top-level performances made him a fan favourite.
Melody Belle (2018, 2019, 2020) Melody Belle is the most decorated winner of this race, claiming it three times in a row. Her 2019 win was part of her historic Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown sweep, and she retired with a record 14 Group 1 wins, the most by any New Zealand-trained horse.
Callsign Mav (2021): Callsign Mav’s win was a gritty performance that confirmed his place among New Zealand’s elite milers. He later competed in Australia, showing his toughness and adaptability.
La Crique (2022): La Crique’s dominant win in 2022 showcased her as one of the most exciting mares in New Zealand. Her turn of foot and professionalism marked her as a future star of the turf.
Mustang Valley (2023): Mustang Valley won in heavy conditions, proving her stamina and grit. Trained by Andrew Forsman, she was a consistent performer who thrived in testing ground.
One Bold Cat (2024): One Bold Cat caused a minor upset in 2024, defeating a strong field that included Skew Wiff and Matscot. His win added to the race’s tradition of producing both champions and surprise results.
Waitak (2025): Waitak was an upset winner of the renamed race in 2025 taking out the Howden Insurance Mile by a half-length over La Crique relishing a Heavy (9) track to improve on his lead-up 11th in the Proisir Plate. He went on to frank the form with an enormous five length win in the Livamol Classic at his next start.
Bet on the next Howden Insurance Mile winner with our comprehensive race form guide and expert tips at the TAB NZ!
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