New Zealand
Bloodstock & Stud Tour
An exclusive 5-day insider's journey into the heart of New Zealand's thoroughbred racing world — from champion stud farms to the prestigious Karaka Sales.
Limited places available — enquire now to avoid disappointment
Welcome to the World of Thoroughbred Racing
Designer Tours has been organising fully escorted group travel for over 30 years, and this new tour is something truly special. We're bringing a small, exclusive group of travellers inside one of the world's great industries — thoroughbred horse racing and breeding — with access that most people never get.
Over five unforgettable days, you'll visit champion stud farms, attend the prestigious New Zealand Bloodstock Sales at Karaka, experience a full race day with VIP hospitality, and explore some of New Zealand's most beautiful scenery — with every detail looked after so you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
What You'll Experience
Four extraordinary experiences across five days
NZ Bloodstock Sales — Karaka
Walk through New Zealand's premier thoroughbred sale complex at Karaka, inspect the yearlings up close, and watch as the country's finest horses are auctioned to international buyers. An electric atmosphere unlike anything else.
World-Class Stud Farm Visits
Go behind the gates of premier New Zealand breeding operations. Meet the stallions, explore the mares' paddocks, and get a genuine inside view of how champions are bred — with expert commentary from the stud's own team.
Race Day with VIP Hospitality
A full day at a premier New Zealand racecourse with reserved hospitality. Great food, excellent company, and world-class racing — this is race day done properly.
Iconic New Zealand Sights
New Zealand is one of the world's most beautiful destinations. We've built in dedicated time to explore the landmark sights and scenic highlights of the regions you visit — because a great tour is about more than just one thing.
The Ownership Opportunity
One of the truly unique aspects of this tour is the opportunity to participate in the New Zealand Bloodstock auction — and potentially leave New Zealand as a thoroughbred owner.
Whether you're interested in purchasing individually or as part of a group syndicate with fellow travellers, our team will be right alongside you to help navigate the process. There's no obligation whatsoever — but for those who've ever dreamed of having a horse in training, this is a rare and remarkable chance to make it happen in the most exciting way imaginable.
Your 5-Day Itinerary
Every day planned, every detail handled
Depart Victoria — Arrive New Zealand
Fly from Melbourne (or your nearest Victoria departure point) to Auckland. Your Designer Tours host will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your 4-star hotel. Settle in and join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner, where we walk through the exciting days ahead.
Behind the Gates — Premier Stud Farm
A truly exclusive experience: a private guided tour of one of New Zealand's most celebrated thoroughbred breeding operations. Walk the paddocks, watch the stallion parade, meet the stud managers, and gain a genuine insider's understanding of how champions are bred and raised.
Karaka Sales — New Zealand Bloodstock
The centrepiece of the tour. Attend the prestigious New Zealand Bloodstock Sales at Karaka — New Zealand's premier thoroughbred auction, held twice a year (January and June). Join the pre-sale inspection, feel the atmosphere of the sale complex, and — if you wish — participate in the bidding individually or as a group syndicate.
Race Day & Second Stud Visit
Enjoy a full day at a premier New Zealand racecourse with hospitality included. Watch the best horses in the country compete in style. In the afternoon, visit a second stud farm for a deeper look at New Zealand's breeding industry before a celebratory dinner.
Iconic New Zealand — Homeward Bound
A leisurely morning taking in some of New Zealand's most iconic sights before your transfer to Auckland Airport for your return flight to Victoria. Take home memories — and perhaps a share in a thoroughbred — that will last a lifetime.
* Itinerary is indicative and subject to NZ Bloodstock sale dates and availability. Final confirmed itinerary provided on booking.
What's Included
Everything taken care of — you just enjoy the experience
Register Your Interest
Places on this tour are strictly limited. Fill in your details below and our team will be in touch with full pricing, dates, and availability.