https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/racing/103066396/winston-peters-calls-on-australian-expert-to-review-nz-racing-structures
Winston Peters calls on Australian expert to review NZ racing structures
Racing Minister Winston Peters has called on Australian horse owner, breeder and administrator John Messara to review the New Zealand racing industry's governance structures.
Messara is one of Australia's most successful racing administrators and the founder of one of its most prominent horse breeding businesses, Arrowfield Stud.
The New Zealand industry has been ailing for some time, with low prizemoney levels a big beef for owners and trainers. There has also been widespread dissatisfaction with the sport's administration and also its structure.
Peters said on Thursday he would ask Messara to review the industry and provide recommendations on future directions. "Racing is a significant industry creating $1.6 billion to GDP annually, it employs up to 50,000 people, and has many passionate supporters. However, it is vital an assessment is conducted on whether the industry is meeting its full financial potential, and whether its governance arrangements are top-heavy," Peters said in a statement.
"For this reason it is pleasing Mr Messara has agreed to conduct a strategic review to provide advice to the Government," he said. "Mr Messara is considered one of Australia's most successful racing administrators. As chair of both Racing New South Wales and Racing Australia, he led reforms to increase and secure long-term revenue.
"His review will also assist the government in determining if the current Racing Act 2003 and the proposed Racing Amendment Bill are fit for purpose," he said.
Messara will start the review later this month with the objective of producing a report by mid-year. He will be provided administrative support through the Department of Internal Affairs.
- Stuff