A quick guide to the Melbourne Cup
With less than two weeks until the Melbourne Cup, it’s time to get back to basics for The Big Race.
The race that stops two nations
Each year at 5pm NZST on the first Tuesday in November, the greatest thoroughbreds from around the world descend on Flemington to battle it out for a $A6.3 million prize purse.
New Zealand's affinity with the Melbourne Cup stems from our long history of Cup Day success. Since the first race back in 1861, 41 New Zealand-bred horses have won this prestigious race, 28 of them in the last 50 races. With odds as good as these, it’s no wonder it's the biggest betting day of the year.
Fashions in the Field
The Melbourne Cup is as much about fashion as it has about the horses. If you're heading on-track this Melbourne Cup day, a fancy frock and fascinator (or hat) are fashion staples for your day of festivities. Need some style tips? Check out what's in season.
Fashionistas – if you ever needed an excuse for a shopping trip, this is it. Enter the Fashion events at Wingatui and Ellerslie this Melbourne Cup day, and be in to win prizes galore.
Having a flutter
At 3200 metres, the Melbourne Cup is a punishing distance and one that horses train hard and race fast to win. It's an exciting race to watch, especially if you have waged a bet on the race. Check out our Beginner's Guide for all you need to know about having a flutter this Melbourne Cup day.
