Our 2011 election manifesto - Labour Party

A prosperous and dynamic sector with huge potential
The racing industry is currently in decline, primarily through having to compete with many
other forms of gambling. So changes are needed. When in Government, Labour will be
instrumental in allowing all parts of the industry to be involved in reviewing the current status
of the industry, and to establish what is the best way forward.
Labour is committed to building on the good partnership we had developed with the racing
industry, and will continue to work closely with the industry to strengthen racing‟s
contribution to economic growth. Labour will ensure that all additional funding to racing
contributes to real economic growth to be enjoyed by all stakeholders, through appropriate
industry strategies.
Recognising that change must come from within, Labour will convene a round-table
discussion of major stakeholders in the industry with a view to strengthening and
enhancing the economic viability of racing in New Zealand. We will ensure that a
strategic direction is developed and implemented.
Labour is concerned that some racing clubs might use revenue from pokie machines for
purposes other than for the social good. There are also proposals to establish pokie
machines on racing club premises, and we are concerned this may be done without
sufficiently-wide consultation. Labour will bring together industry stakeholders to develop
policy on these issues.
Labour will ensure the robustness of the Integrity Unit, meaning that those appointed to it are
of the highest calibre, in order to maintain the integrity of the unit and the industry.
Labour in government will assist in establishing a Code of Practice for the racing industry,
which will be drawn up and agreed upon by all major stakeholders and will link with the
current set-up of the Integrity Unit.
We will also uphold the position of the New Zealand Racing Board to hold the exclusive
rights to racing and sports betting in New Zealand, and for the net proceeds to be returned to
sustain New Zealand racing.
Labour will work with the New Zealand Racing Board, the racing code bodies,
governments and international racing bodies to ensure that New Zealand is wellplaced
to respond to any threats to racing‟s revenue and integrity.
Racing is inherently a dangerous occupation. But with the right tools, the risks can be
managed and mitigated. Labour is committed to working with the sector to ensure that
jockeys ride in the safest environment possible. A reduction of injuries and safer practices
will result in a reduction in ACC levies.
Labour will work with the industry to reduce injuries, promote safe practices
and provide safe amenities.
Our thoroughbred stock is a precious resource, and in New Zealand we are lucky our
industry is free from diseases such as Equine Influenza. But the scare in Australia reinforces
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