Auckland Cup

Auckland Cup

The 2026 Auckland Cup ran on Saturday March 7 at Ellerslie, Auckland, and was won in a massive 6.35 length romp home by the Henry Dwyer-trained Paradise Storm!

Ellerslie R7 - TRACKSIDE AUCKLAND CUP (G2)
Final Race time: 
1st
13. Paradise Storm (5)
J: Joe Doyle 53kg
1X477T: Henry Dwyer
5.50WIN
2.30PLACE
2nd
8. Manzor Blue (3)
J: Kate Hercock 53kg
20461T: Lisa Latta
15.00WIN
4.50PLACE
3rd
6. Age Of Sail (2)
J: Ben Thompson 54kg
46626T: Kris Lees
7.50WIN
2.80PLACE
4th
5. Final Return (10)
J: Chris Dell 54.5kg
01841T: Janelle Millar
16.00WIN
4.80PLACE
5th
12. Trav (14)
J: Masa Hashizume 53kg
90095T: Raymond Connors
14.00WIN
4.40PLACE
6th
11. Just Charlie (15)
J: Tina Comignaghi 53kg
03733T: Kevin Myers
14.00WIN
4.40PLACE
7th
9. Gigi (11)
J: George Rooke 53kg
52750T: Jim Pender
20.00WIN
5.50PLACE
8th
1. Brayden Star (6)
J: Opie Bosson 58kg
04892T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young
6.00WIN
2.40PLACE
9th
10. Mahrajaan (4)
J: Dean Yendall 53kg
X9000T: Shaune Ritchie & Colm Murray
23.00WIN
6.00PLACE
10th
17. Just A Karin (12)
J: Tayla Mitchell 53kg
01834T: Allan Morley
126.00WIN
21.00PLACE
11th
15. Khan Hunter (18)
J: Lynsey Satherley 53kg
50070T: Antony Fuller
101.00WIN
18.00PLACE
12th
14. Trust In You (7)
J: Bruno Queiroz 53kg
06280T: Bruce Wallace & Grant Cooksley
51.00WIN
11.00PLACE
13th
2. Interpretation (16)
J: Matt Cartwright 55.5kg
50388T: Ciaron Maher
26.00WIN
6.50PLACE
14th
7. Son Of Sun (8)
J: Warren Kennedy 53.5kg
04299T: Bruce Wallace & Grant Cooksley
20.00WIN
5.50PLACE
15th
18. Overdraft (17)
J: Kelly Myers 53kg
73921T: Jo Rathbone
81.00WIN
15.00PLACE
16th
4. Whangaehu (9)
J: Craig Grylls 55.5kg
08030T: Bill Thurlow and Sam O’Malley
46.00WIN
10.00PLACE
17th
3. Rosso (1)
J: Mick Dee 55.5kg
14114T: Michael & Matthew Pitman
4.80WIN
2.10PLACE
18th
16. Nest Egg (13)
J: Samantha Collett 53kg
64805T: Stephen Marsh
81.00WIN
15.00PLACE
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.tab.co.nz/racing. Data retrieved: 21/08/2026 03:40:43 PM (Pacific/Auckland)

Auckland Cup Info

  • 2026 Auckland Cup Date: Saturday the 7th of March 2026
  • Track Location: Ellerslie Racecourse, Auckland, New Zealand
  • Distance: 3,200m
  • Conditions: Handicap - 3YOs & Upwards
  • Status: Group 2
  • Prize Money (NZD): $600,000
  • First Run: 1874
  • Reigning Auckland Cup Winner: Paradise Storm (2026)

Looking for the latest Auckland Cup betting odds, insider racing tips and form for the Ellerslie Group 2 two-mile race this March? The TAB NZ have all the best betting guides and statistics to make informed bets on the Auckland Cup thoroughbred race this autumn!

The Group 2 Auckland Cup is a crucial staying test for New Zealand’s top long-distance racehorses. It is one of the more important Kiwi staying races held each autumn and is run at Auckland’s Ellerslie Racecourse on a Saturday in early March as one of the Group race highlights of Champions Day conducted by the Auckland Racing Club.

It is one of the most prestigious races in the country and runs alongside a host of other top-level New Zealand races including the Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) for three-year-olds and the brand-new NZ$4m The Kiwi slot-race.

It is one of New Zealand’s three traditional two-mile cup races holding Black-Type status along with the Group 3 New Zealand Cup (3200m) in mid-November at Canterbury and the Group 3 Wellington Cup (3200m) at Trentham in January.

To improve your chances of predicting the next Auckland Cup winner, access the latest Auckland Cup 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 autumn contenders.

Whether you’re a seasoned punter or new to betting on the horse races in New Zealand, our comprehensive Auckland Cup race coverage has everything you need.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action at the illustrious Auckland Cup. Join the Thrill of the Race! Feel the adrenaline rush as your chosen horse thunders down the home stretch.

Sign up with TAB NZ today and get ready to cheer your horse to victory!

Auckland Cup Fast Facts

  • Last mare to win the Auckland Cup: Uareastar (2022)
  • Last back-to-back Auckland Cup winner: Prize Lady (2007-08)
  • Notable Fact: Jezabeel made history in 1998 completing the Auckland Cup – Melbourne Cup double!

Bet on the next Auckland Cup now!

Auckland Cup Betting Info

Auckland Cup betting is open months ahead of the Group 2 Auckland, autumn staying race at the TAB NZ.

We offer pre-nomination Auckland Cup betting odds throughout the year that are known as futures Auckland Cup odds online.

All-In Auckland Cup betting markets are then available following the official Auckland Cup nominations taken in early January.

Betting on the Auckland Cup field is available following final acceptances the Wednesday of race week.

Betting on the Auckland Cup favours the locally trained staying champions from the best New Zealand horse racing stables that can see out the testing two-mile Auckland Cup distance.

Auckland Cup race betting traditionally focuses on the proven Group winning horses in the mix who have an outstanding record in the event and those proven over the lead-up feature races in New Zealand.

Auckland Cup race tips centre on the country’s star thoroughbreds that have good lead-up form in similar grade summer/autumn events, and horses with previous experience at the Ellerslie track who have dominated recent Auckland Cup race results.

The Auckland Cup is a handicap event for horses aged three-years-old and upwards.

The Auckland Cup field has a starting limit of 18 horses.

Expert Tips on the 2026 Auckland Cup

Stay tuned for our expert tips and Auckland Cup betting predictions ahead of this year’s Group 2 two-mile feature in Auckland.

Favourite
No. 1 Brayden Star
Ellerslie R7 – TRACKSIDE AUCKLAND CUP (G2)
Final Race time: 
8th
1. Brayden Star (6)
J: Opie Bosson 58kg
04892T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young
6.00WIN
2.40PLACE
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.tab.co.nz/racing. Data retrieved: 21/08/2026 03:40:43 PM (Pacific/Auckland)
Best Each Way Bet
No. 3 Rosso
Each Way
Ellerslie R7 – TRACKSIDE AUCKLAND CUP (G2)
Final Race time: 
17th
3. Rosso (1)
J: Mick Dee 55.5kg
14114T: Michael & Matthew Pitman
4.80WIN
2.10PLACE
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.tab.co.nz/racing. Data retrieved: 21/08/2026 03:40:43 PM (Pacific/Auckland)
Best Roughie
No. 11 Just Charlie
Ellerslie R7 – TRACKSIDE AUCKLAND CUP (G2)
Final Race time: 
6th
11. Just Charlie (15)
J: Tina Comignaghi 53kg
03733T: Kevin Myers
14.00WIN
4.40PLACE
For current odds on all of our live racing markets, please visit www.tab.co.nz/racing. Data retrieved: 21/08/2026 03:40:43 PM (Pacific/Auckland)

Auckland Cup Tips

Auckland Cup tips on which horse will win the next edition of the race flood in as the countdown to the important Auckland 3200m race heats up.

Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup race tips it is important to consider factors including:

  • What horses in the Auckland Cup field are proven over the distance?
  • Who the key Auckland Cup trainers and jockeys are and what horses they have in the Auckland Cup field this year?
  • Auckland Cup barrier statistics and where your Auckland Cup betting selections are drawn.
  • Auckland Cup horses that have a good past record at the track.

How long does it take to know if you placed a winning Auckland Cup race tip? The event itself takes just around three minutes and 20 seconds for the competing horses to run the 3,200m trip depending on track conditions.

The official Auckland Cup winner and winning Auckland Cup trifecta are known shortly after unless there is a protest or a photo-finish Auckland Cup result.

Who holds the Auckland Cup race record? Kotare Chief holds the 3,200m Auckland Cup race record winning in 1987 in 3 minutes 16.63 seconds.

What are the best Auckland Cup lead-up races to look at when placing an Auckland Cup bet?

When considering bets for the Auckland Cup, it’s helpful to look at several key lead-up races. Some of the most influential races include the Group 3 Taranaki Cup (1800m) at Taranaki in early February and the Group 3 Avondale Cup (2400m) at Ellerslie later that month.

Glory Days (2019) was the last horse to complete the Avondale Cup – Auckland Cup double in the same year.

By analysing the results and performances in these lead-up races, you can gain valuable insights into the form and potential of the horses competing in the Auckland Cup field.

New Zealand-Bred Horses in the Auckland Cup 

Betting on the local New Zealand-bred horses in the field is hugely popular with the recent Auckland Cup race results showing the Kiwi foaled runners have a dominant record.

Looking back over the Auckland Cup history and statistics shows only four winners dating back to 2000 have been bred outside of New Zealand, most recently Mahrajaan (USA) in 2024 and Paradise Storm (FR) in 2026.

Auckland Cup Tips for a Trifecta

Auckland Cup tips for a trifecta cover the first three horses to officially go past the finishing post in the Auckland Cup results.

The horse to finish on top of the Auckland Cup trifecta is your Auckland Cup winner, the runner who outlasted all their rivals and finished in the fastest time.

Placing an Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup to cover more finishing options and increase the chances of winning.

Adding the favourite into your Auckland Cup trifecta bet is a top tip as the favourites have a strong recent strike-rate running in the money.

Key Auckland Cup Statistics and Insights

Place an informed bet on this year’s Auckland Cup by considering the following key statistics and insights:

  • Win Rates: Horses with high win rates in similar races are strong contenders for the Auckland Cup. Our Auckland Cup 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. Auckland Cup race tips offer comprehensive data on place percentages.
  • Barrier Success Rates: Horses starting from wider barriers have historically shown a higher success rate in the Auckland Cup.

2026 Auckland Cup Field

Nominations: Friday, 2 January 2026 4pm
1st Late Nominations: Tuesday, 3 February 2026 12 noon
1st Withdrawals: Monday 9 February 2026 11am
Final Late Nominations: Tuesday 3 March 2026 12 noon
Final Withdrawals: Wednesday 4 March 2026 10am
Riders: Wednesday 4 March 2026 1pm

Auckland Cup betting takes place on the popular race which is held at Auckland’s Ellerslie Racecourse on a Saturday in early March annually.

The 2023 edition of the Auckland Cup saw Platinum Invador salute at Pukekohe Racecourse as Ellerslie underwent track renovations.

Auckland Cup odds are offered on the esteemed Group 2 handicap event, and the field attracts a host of quality thoroughbreds many of which may be eyeing a trip across the Tasman to Australia for the autumn majors down under including the Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m) also run over the traditional two-mile cup distance.

The Group 2 Auckland Cup is one of New Zealand’s most popular horse races first held back in 1874 when Templeton became the official inaugural winner.

Earlier that year the Auckland Racing Club held its first meeting in May of 1874 and held a race over one and a half miles, also called the Auckland Cup which was won by three-year-old Batter.

The Auckland Cup ran on Boxing Day, December 26, over the summer in New Zealand from 1874 until 1958. From 1958 until 2006 it took place on January 1 as part of the New Year’s Day racing action at Auckland.

It was then moved to the second Saturday of Auckland Cup Week at the beginning of March as part of Champions Day at Ellerslie.

It has been a key event in New Zealand’s racing calendar for over 150 years and continues to attract the best staying horses, jockeys and trainers from across the country and Australia.

The Auckland Cup has seen many notable winners over the years. The first official winner in 1874 was Templeton, who inspired a requiem by Thomas Bracken. Kingfisher, the 1875 winner, was followed by Ariel, who won three times in 1876, 1878, and 1879. Nelson achieved a remarkable feat by winning three consecutive times from 1885 to 1887. Blue Jacket secured back-to-back victories in 1899 and 1900, while All Red won in 1908 and 1909.

In the mid-20th century, Cuddle, who won in 1935 and 1936, also claimed victories in the Doncaster Handicap and All Aged Stakes. Beau Vite, the 1940 winner, went on to win the Cox Plate at Melbourne twice. Kindergarten, the 1942 winner, was one of the inaugural inductees into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame. Il Tempo, who won in 1969 and 1970, set a world record time for the two miles in the Wellington Cup. Apollo Eleven, the 1973 winner, was another standout performer.

In more recent times, Castletown, who won in 1992, also secured three Wellington Cup victories. Jezabeel, the 1998 winner, made history by also winning the Melbourne Cup that same year. Shez Sinsational, the 2012 winner, was a dominant mare with multiple Group 1 victories. Who Shot Thebarman, the 2014 winner, went on to win the Sydney Cup and place in several Group 1 races, including the Melbourne Cup. The 2024 winner, Mahrajaan, continued the tradition of excellence in this esteemed race.

Winning the Auckland Cup is a significant achievement in the racing community, and the event attracts lots of attention from punters both locally and internationally in Australia.

Taking place at Auckland’s prestigious Ellerslie Racecourse, the Auckland Cup is a 3200m event run over the same distance as Australia’s Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) on the first Tuesday of November at Flemington each year.

The Auckland Cup was formerly a Group 1 race before being downgraded to its current Group 2 status in 2022 but remains as popular as the elite level races in the country.

The Auckland Cup and NZ Derby Day races are held on the same date Australia hosts the Group 1 All-Star Mile (1600m) and Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington in Melbourne, and the Group 1 Randwick Guineas (1600m) and Group 1 Canterbury Stakes (1300m) at Randwick in Sydney.

Champions Day At Ellerslie

2026 Champions Day at Ellerslie is set to be an unforgettable event on March 7, 2026. This spectacular day promises a thrilling mix of top-tier racing, hospitality, style, and entertainment. The highlight of the day is the new The NZB Kiwi slot race, boasting a staggering NZ$4 million in stakes as of 2026, making it New Zealand’s richest annual sporting event.

The lucrative race meeting features a stellar lineup of races, including the prestigious Trackside New Zealand Derby, the Auckland Cup, the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes and the Sistema Stakes.

Off the track, the event will host the 21st edition of The Ned Prix de Fashion, New Zealand’s national fashions in the field final, where style icons compete for over $15,000 in prizes.

With activities for families and a variety of hospitality options, Champions Day at Ellerslie is shaping up to be the event of the season!

Feature races on Champions Day at Ellerslie: 

  • NZB Kiwi Slot Race: This is the highlight of Champions Day, featuring a 1500m race for three-year-olds with set weights and penalties. With a current prize pool of $4 million, it is the most lucrative annual sporting event in New Zealand.
  • Trackside New Zealand Derby: One of the most prestigious races in New Zealand, this race is a key event on Champions Day, attracting top three-year-old thoroughbreds.
  • Auckland Cup: A time-honored race that is a staple of New Zealand’s racing calendar, featuring some of the best stayers in the country.
  • Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes: Named after the legendary racehorse Bonecrusher, this race is a significant event for middle-distance runners.
  • Sistema Stakes: A premier race for two-year-olds, showcasing the future stars of New Zealand racing.

Get the best Champions Day at Ellerslie odds, racing stats, previews, form and insider tips on races like the New Zealand Derby now at the TAB NZ!

Where can you bet on the Auckland Cup?

The best place to bet on this year’s Auckland Cup race is through the TAB NZ online.

Auckland Cup Odds

Auckland Cup odds and online betting tips on the Auckland Cup horse race in New Zealand are dominated by proven Group winning horses, the locally trained stayers in the race and backing the horses aged five and above in the mix who have a great record over their younger counterparts in the event.

Where can I find the latest Auckland Cup odds?

For the latest odds and updates on the Auckland Cup, 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 Auckland Cup

Want to know how to make a bet on the Auckland Cup? Visit the TAB NZ racing page to access the latest Auckland Cup betting odds and options.

It is simple to learn how to place a bet on the Auckland Cup online.

You can place an Auckland Cup bet online anytime markets are live.

There are more ways than ever to get involved in betting on the Auckland Cup.

From seasoned punters analysing form guides to casual racing fans drawn to the excitement, the Auckland Cup is a race for everyone.

Whether you’re diving deep into the latest Auckland Cup race field, joining a sweepstake with friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of the autumn racing at Ellerslie, the Auckland Cup has it all!

This important autumn race showcases New Zealand’s finest staying thoroughbreds and attracts attention from all over the country and in Australia as one of the best events in the autumn!

How to Bet on the Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup betting guide, Auckland Cup form guide and our expert Auckland Cup tips.

4. Choose an Auckland Cup bet to place such as Win, Place, Each-Way or the Auckland Cup Trifecta. There are many more Auckland Cup betting options available so make sure to check out our Auckland Cup betting markets.

5. Select the Auckland Cup horse you want to bet on from the early markets, Auckland Cup nominations or Auckland Cup field.

Auckland Cup Prize Money

The Auckland Cup prize money is set at NZ$600,000 in total stakes allocated between first to eighteenth place. 

How much does the Auckland Cup winner get?

The winning Auckland Cup horse receives a total of NZ$360,000 in prize money.

See below for the official breakdown of Auckland Cup prizes on offer from the Auckland Cup winner to the 18th horse to cross the finish line in the official Auckland Cup results should a capacity field face off.

First: NZ$360,000

Second: NZ$105,000

Third: NZ$51,000

Fourth: NZ$23,400

Fifth: NZ$13,800

Sixth – Eighteenth: NZ$3,600

What makes betting on the Auckland Cup so popular?

The fact that the Auckland Cup is one of the key staying races run during the Auckland Autumn Racing Carnival and one of the key March horse races in Australasia make it a must watch and must bet on racing event.

The Auckland Cup is a popular two-mile staying race that has produced a host of subsequent Group 1 winning horses both locally and across the Tasman.

The Auckland Cup often serves as a key lead-up race for other major events, providing valuable insights into the form and potential of the horses for future races.

For the best online betting on the Auckland Cup, consider tipping a horse to win both the Auckland Cup and another Group status race over the carnival in an autumn 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.

The Auckland Cup generates significant betting interest from punters in New Zealand and around the world, with bookmakers offering attractive odds and various betting options.

What makes the Auckland Cup so special?

The Auckland Cup is held at the iconic Ellerslie Racecourse, known for its world-class facilities and vibrant atmosphere, making it a top choice destination for Kiwi racegoers.

The Auckland Cup’s rich history and prestige attract top-quality horses, trainers, and jockeys, making it a highly competitive and exciting race. The substantial prize money and the opportunity for horses to enhance their reputations on a national and international stage add to the race’s allure.

The Auckland Cup serves as a great guide historically to other important New Zealand Group horse races so using the Auckland Cup winners’ list for upcoming Group events is popular with punters.

It is a highly competitive and prestigious race that grows in popularity each autumn.

New Zealand and international racing fans, including those in Australia, tune into the thrilling 3200m autumn event every season to see if their bets on the Auckland Cup race won!

The Auckland Cup currently offers NZ$600,000 in prize money plus bragging rights with jockeys, trainers and owners from across the country and further abroad keen to add their names to the list of Auckland Cup champions.

What are the popular betting markets for the Auckland Cup?

When it comes to betting on the Auckland Cup, 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.

How many mares have won the Auckland Cup in recent years?

Since the year 2000 ten mares have won the Auckland Cup, most recently Uareastar in 2022.

What age group has the best Auckland Cup record?

Five-year-olds have dominated the Auckland Cup results in recent years 12 with saluting between 2000 and 2026, most recently Paradise Storm in 2026.

The youngest recent Auckland Cup winner was Able Master who saluted as a three-year-old in 2000.

The oldest recent Auckland Cup winner was El Soldado who won as a nine-year-old in 2016.

Between 2000 and 2026 the breakdown of Auckland Cup winners by age is as follows:

3YOs – 1 (latest Able Master in 2000)

4YOs – 4 (latest Rock Diva in 2015)

5YOs – 12 (latest Paradise Storm in 2026)

6YOs – 5 (latest Mahrajaan in 2024)

7YOs3 (latest Platinum Invador in 2023)

8YOs – 1 (latest Spin Around in 2009)

9YOs – 1 (latest El Soldado in 2016)

What races will runners out of the Auckland Cup target next?

Runners from the Auckland Cup often target other prestigious staying races both in New Zealand and internationally. Some of the notable races they may aim for include:

  • Sydney Cup: Held at Randwick Racecourse in Australia, the Sydney Cup is a prominent Group 1 3200m race that attracts top stayers from around the world. Many Auckland Cup runners look to compete in this event due to its high stakes and prestige.
  • Queen Elizabeth Stakes: Held at Randwick Racecourse in April, this A$5 million 2000m race is part of The Championships in Sydney and offers substantial prize money. It is a prestigious target for top-class horses, including those coming out of the Auckland Cup.
  • Melbourne Cup: Known as “the race that stops a nation,” the Melbourne Cup is one of the most famous horse races globally. Held at Flemington Racecourse, this 3200m race is a prime target for Auckland Cup runners seeking international glory later in the year with the Melbourne Cup date set for the first Tuesday of November.
  • Caulfield Cup: This 2400m race at Caulfield Racecourse in Australia is a key lead-up to the Melbourne Cup and attracts a strong field of stayers. Auckland Cup runners often aim for this race as part of their spring campaign.

Auckland Cup Barriers

The Auckland Cup barrier draw and allocated Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup barrier draw?

Barriers 9 and 15 have both produced three Auckland Cup winners between 2000 and 2026 most recently Bazelle (barrier 9 in 2005) and Glory Days (barrier 15 in 2019).

Barrier 18 is the widest gate to produce an Auckland Cup winner between 2000 and 2026 with Our Unicorn in 2001.

Barrier 9 was the last gate to produce back-to-back Auckland Cup winners with three straight champions jumping from the midfield starting position: Bodie (2003), Upsetthym (2004), and Bazelle (2005).

Barrier 5 is the latest Auckland Cup winning barrier with Paradise Storm in 2026.

Breakdown of winning Auckland Cup barriers between 2000-26:

Barrier 1 – 2 (latest Sangster in 2013)

Barrier 2 – 2 (latest Who Shot Thebarman in 2014)

Barrier 3 – 1 (latest Mahrajaan in 2024)

Barrier 4 – 1 (latest Prize Lady in 2008)

Barrier 5 – 1 (latest Paradise Storm in 2026)

Barrier 6 – 2 (latest Platinum Invador in 2023)

Barrier 7 – 1 (latest Ocean Billy in 2021)

Barrier 8 – 1 (latest El Soldado in 2016)

Barrier 9 – 3 (latest Bazelle in 2005)

Barrier 10 – 1 (latest Trav in 2025)

Barrier 11 – 2 (latest Ladies First in 2018)

Barrier 12 – 1 (latest Zavite in 2010)

Barrier 13 – 1 (latest Shez Sinsational in 2012)

Barrier 14 – 1 (latest Spin Around in 2009)

Barrier 15 – 3 (latest Glory Days in 2019)

Barrier 16 – 1 (latest Uareastar in 2022)

Barrier 17 – 1 (latest Roger That in 2020)

Barrier 18 – 1 (latest Our Unicorn in 2001)

Auckland Cup Form

We offer a complete Auckland Cup form guide and expert analysis on every horse in the Auckland Cup field in addition to insider Auckland Cup racing tips and betting odds.

Our Auckland Cup form guides include:

  • Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup or you are an expert Auckland Cup tipster, our form guide gives you all the statistics and information you need to make a smart bet on the Auckland Cup.

How to Read the Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup race.

Weight Carried: Analyse how the weight carried in previous races compares to the Auckland Cup, as this can impact performance.

Auckland Cup Results

The Auckland Cup results are known when the event takes place in March annually.

You can bet on the Auckland Cup race results weeks ahead of race day with our futures Auckland Cup markets here at the TAB NZ.

Betting on the Auckland Cup results entails picking the Auckland Cup winning horse and we can help you place an informed bet on the Auckland Cup field with our Auckland Cup tips and form guide.

Other Auckland Cup race results include the winning jockeys, trainers, successful barrier and finishing time.

The complete Auckland Cup 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 Auckland Cup results!

Auckland Cup exotic results show how all the exotic Auckland Cup bet types resulted like the Auckland Cup Quinella, Auckland Cup Exacta, Auckland Cup Trifecta, and Auckland Cup First Four.

Auckland Cup Jockeys

Securing a ride in the Auckland Cup field is a highly sought-after achievement for jockeys around New Zealand and Australia. Winning this important autumn race is a nice campaign goal for many of Australasia’s top riders looking to secure a Group trophy during the carnival.

What jockeys are riding in the Auckland Cup field is determined by the owners and trainers of the horses, and official Auckland Cup jockey announcements are made in the weeks and days leading up to the race.

Joe Doyle is the latest Auckland Cup winning jockey having ridden Paradise Storm to victory in 2026.

Samantha Collett on Glory Days (2019) and Roger That (2020) is the last back-to-back Auckland Cup winning jockey and the latest female jockey to ride an Auckland Cup winner.

Since 2005 the most successful Auckland Cup jockey with three winners is Mark Du Plessis aboard Bazelle (2005), Prize Lady (2007), and most recently Rock Diva (2015).

Stay tuned to the TAB NZ racing blog to see what jockeys lock in a confirmed ride on one of the Auckland Cup horses this summer.

Auckland Cup Trainers

The most successful trainer in the history of the Auckland Cup is Colin Jillings. He trained four winners of the Auckland Cup: Yeman (1956), Stipulate (1963), Perhaps (1976), and Irish Chance (1999 in partnership with Richard Yuill).

Henry Dwyer is the latest Auckland Cup winning trainer having prepared Paradise Storm to victory in 2026.

Auckland Cup Winners

Notable Auckland Cup winners throughout history include:

Templeton (1874): Templeton was the first official winner of the Auckland Cup in 1874 in the summer edition of the Auckland Cup following the May win by Battler. His victory was so impressive that it inspired Thomas Bracken, the composer of “God Defend New Zealand,” to write a requiem called “Old Templeton” in his honour.

Kingfisher (1875): Kingfisher won the Auckland Cup in 1875, continuing the early tradition of excellence in this prestigious race.

Ariel (1876, 1878, 1879): Ariel was a remarkable horse who won the Auckland Cup three times, in 1876, 1878, and 1879. His multiple victories established him as one of the early legends of the race.

Nelson (1885-1887): Nelson achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Auckland Cup three consecutive times from 1885 to 1887. His dominance during this period showcased his exceptional talent and endurance.

Blue Jacket (1899, 1900): Blue Jacket secured back-to-back victories in the Auckland Cup in 1899 and 1900. His consistent performance over these two years made him a standout competitor.

All Red (1908, 1909): All Red won the Auckland Cup in 1908 and 1909, demonstrating his prowess in long-distance races. His back-to-back victories solidified his place in the history of the race.

Cuddle (1935, 1936): Cuddle was an outstanding mare who won the Auckland Cup in 1935 and 1936. She also claimed victories in the Doncaster Handicap and All Aged Stakes and was inducted into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame.

Beau Vite (1940): Beau Vite won the Auckland Cup in 1940 and went on to achieve significant success in Australia, including two Cox Plate victories. He was inducted into both the New Zealand and Australian Racing Halls of Fame.

Kindergarten (1942): Kindergarten’s 1942 Auckland Cup victory is regarded as one of his greatest performances. He carried a top weight of 10 stone 2 pounds and won by five lengths in a track record time. He was one of the inaugural inductees into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame.

Il Tempo (1969, 1970): Il Tempo won the Auckland Cup in 1969 and 1970. He also set a world record time for the two miles in the Wellington Cup, a record that still stands today. He is widely regarded as New Zealand’s greatest ever stayer.

Apollo Eleven (1973): Apollo Eleven was a standout performer who won the Auckland Cup in 1973, adding to the rich history of the race.

Castletown (1992): Castletown won the Auckland Cup in 1992 and also secured three Wellington Cup victories, showcasing his consistency and prowess in long-distance races.

Jezabeel (1998): Jezabeel made history by winning both the Auckland Cup and the Melbourne Cup in 1998, a rare and prestigious double victory.

Shez Sinsational (2012): Shez Sinsational was a dominant mare who won the Auckland Cup in 2012 and achieved multiple Group 1 victories throughout her career.

Who Shot Thebarman (2014): Who Shot Thebarman won the Auckland Cup in 2014 and went on to win the Sydney Cup and place in several Group 1 races, including the Melbourne Cup. He became a fan favorite and a consistent top performer from the Chris Waller stables in Sydney.

Mahrajaan (2024): Mahrajaan continued the tradition of excellence in the Auckland Cup with his victory in 2024, adding to the race’s storied history.

Bet on the next Auckland Cup winner with our comprehensive Auckland Cup form guide and expert Auckland Cup tips at the TAB NZ! 

Past Auckland Cup Results

Recent Auckland Cup winners, jockeys, trainers, barriers, and weights carried to victory dating back to the year 2005 are detailed in the below table.

YearWinner – Age/Gender BreedingJockeyWeight (kgs)Trainer/sBarrier
2026PARADISE STORM (FR) 5G
MASKED MARVEL (GB) – HOLYSTORM (FR) LIMNOS (JPN)
JOE DOYLE53.0HENRY DWYER5
2025TRAV (NZ) 5G
ALMANZOR (FR) – ROYAL SAV (NZ) SAVABEEL (AUS)
MASA HASHIZUME53.0RAYMOND CONNORS10
2024MAHRAJAAN (USA) 6G
KITTEN’S JOY (USA) – LAHUDOOD (GB) SINGSPIEL (IRE)
SAM WEATHERLEY54.8SHAUNE RITCHIE & COLM MURRAY3
2023PLATINUM INVADOR (NZ) 7G
REDWOOD (GB) – ATOMIC DANCER (AUS) DANEHILL DANCER (IRE)
RYAN ELLIOT55.0L LATTA6
2022UAREASTAR (NZ) 5M
JAKKALBERRY (IRE) – ENCHANTERESS (NZ) DANEHILL (USA)
WIREMU PINN53.0FRASER AURET16
2021OCEAN BILLY (NZ) 5G
OCEAN PARK (NZ) – COOL STORM (NZ) ONE COOL CAT (USA)
J PARKES56.0B POMARE7
2020ROGER THAT (NZ) 7G
SHINKO KING (IRE) – HEATHER LYN (NZ) YAMANIN VITAL (NZ)
SAMANTHA COLLETT55.0ANTONY FULLER17
2019GLORY DAYS (NZ) 6M
RED GIANT (USA) – BILANCIA (NZ) MONTJEU (IRE)
SAMANTHA COLLETT53.5BILL THURLOW15
2018LADIES FIRST (NZ) 5M
DYLAN THOMAS (IRE) – JUST POLITE (AUS) DEHERE (USA)
J PARKES54.0A SHARROCK11
2017CHENILLE (NZ) 5M
PENTIRE (GB) – CHARMED (NZ) O’REILLY (NZ)
L G INNES53.5TONY PIKE6
2016EL SOLDADO (NZ) 9G
COLOMBIA (NZ) – ZO’AL (NZ) NORMAN PENTAQUAD (USA)
D G BRADLEY55.0PHILLIP DEVCICH8
2015ROCK DIVA (NZ) 4M
LUCKY UNICORN (AUS) – BOHEMIAN BLUES (NZ) BLUES TRAVELLER (IRE)
MARK DU PLESSIS52.0TONY PIKE15
2014WHO SHOT THEBARMAN (NZ) 5G
YAMANIN VITAL (NZ) – EARS CAROL (NZ) CAROLINGIAN (AUS)
M CAMERON52.5M OULAGHAN2
2013SANGSTER (NZ) 4G
SAVABEEL (AUS) – QUINTA SPECIAL (IRE) SPECTRUM (IRE)
O P BOSSON54.5TRENT BUSUTTIN & NATALIE YOUNG1
2012SHEZ SINSATIONAL (NZ) 4M
EKRAAR (USA) – ORIGINAL SIN (NZ) SHINKO KING (IRE)
JAMES MCDONALD55.0A SHARROCK13
2011TITCH (NZ) 6G
LORD BALLINA (AUS) – OUR SOPHIE (NZ) KAAPSTAD (NZ)
O P BOSSON54.5KEVIN MYERS1
2010ZAVITE (NZ) 7G
ZABEEL (NZ) – MISS VITA (USA) ALLEGED (USA)
DAMIEN OLIVER57.5ANTHONY CUMMINGS12
2009SPIN AROUND (AUS) 8G
SPINNING WORLD (USA) – BE YOURSELF (USA) NOBLE BIJOU (USA)
V A COLGAN55.5STEVEN COOPER14
2008PRIZE LADY (NZ) 6M
PRIZED (USA) – PEN BAL LADY (GB) MUMMY’S GAME (GB)
M C SWEENEY52.5GRAEME & MARK SANDERS4
2007PRIZE LADY (NZ) 5M
PRIZED (USA) – PEN BAL LADY (GB) MUMMY’S GAME (GB)
MARK DU PLESSIS52.0GRAEME SANDERS & DEBBIE SWEENEY15
2006PENTANE (NZ) 4G
PENTIRE (GB) – TUFF ONE (NZ) PRINCE RAIDER (NZ)
M J WALKER53.0LANCE O’SULLIVAN11
2005BAZELLE (NZ) 5M
ZABEEL (NZ) – SHOW GAMES (AUS) SHOWDOWN (GB)
MARK DU PLESSIS52.0PAUL JENKINS9

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