Northern Lights Autumn Carnival – Hospitality at Alexandra Park
What is the Northern Lights Autumn Carnival?
The Northern Lights Autumn Carnival is a three‑month showcase of premier harness racing in the North, running from 6 March to 22 May across Alexandra Park and Cambridge Raceway. It brings together the very best of the sport — top horses, elite drivers, high‑stakes racing, and some of the most exciting atmospheres of the racing season.
Across nine major race nights, the Carnival features:
$4.6 million in feature race stakes
29 Group and Listed races
Major age‑group highlights for 2YO, 3YO, and open class competitors
Elite pacing and trotting events, including classics, finals, and long‑standing traditions
From rising juvenile stars in the Young Guns Series to the pinnacle of Group 1 racing with the Taylor Mile, Rowe Cup, Northern Derby and Northern Oaks, the Carnival is designed to celebrate both emerging and established talent at the highest level.
It is one of the most anticipated periods on the New Zealand harness calendar – combining competitive drama, fan engagement, and exceptional racenight experiences.
Hospitality Packages Now Available
Throughout the Carnival, Top of the Park and the Tasman Room will be open on select feature evenings, offering premium dining, an elevated raceday experience, and some of the best views on course.
Top of the Park
A premium lounge offering panoramic views of the track, perfect for corporate hosting, celebrations, and unforgettable racenights.
Tasman Room
A vibrant dining space overlooking the home straight, ideal for groups, members, and social raceday experiences.
Both spaces offer:
Buffet dining
Beverage packages
Comfortable and social environments
Exceptional viewing of the racing action
Feature Nights at Alexandra Park
NZB Standardbred Harness Millions – 20 March
Harness Millions Night is one of the standout evenings of the Northern Lights Carnival, with over $800,000 in stakes, including the prestigious Harness Million races for three‑year‑olds and the Group 1 Young Guns Finals.
Enjoy the action from Top of the Park, featuring premium hospitality and superb track views.
ANZAC Cup Night – 24 April
A signature autumn fixture, ANZAC Cup Night features the ANZAC Cup and the Group 1 Taylor Mile, delivering world‑class racing alongside a special sense of New Zealand tradition.
Celebrate in the Tasman Room, offering premium dining and exceptional viewing.
Northern Derby & Oaks Night – 1 May
Featuring the always‑popular National Style Stakes, Derby & Oaks Night brings elegance and tradition to the track.
Dress in black and white and enjoy an elevated race night in the Tasman Room, complete with buffet dining, all‑inclusive beverage packages, and excellent trackside viewing.
Rowe Cup Night – 8 May
Experience one of the most prestigious Group 1 nights of the Carnival – Rowe Cup Night – from Top of the Park.
With its elevated vantage point, premium hospitality, and exhilarating race‑night atmosphere, Top of the Park is the perfect setting for group hosting, celebrations, or a standout night at the races.
Northern Lights Finale – 22nd May
Close out the Northern Lights Autumn Carnival in style from Top of the Park on Friday, 22 May. Enjoy the last racenight of the Carnival with panoramic track views, premium buffet dining, and a relaxed yet electric atmosphere as the season comes to a thrilling finish. With hospitality packages from $65, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the finale with friends, colleagues, or clients.
Your Perfect Carnival Night Out
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting clients, or simply enjoying a night at the races, Alexandra Park’s hospitality packages give you the best seat in the house throughout the Northern Lights Autumn Carnival.
