Day at races sure fire winner for families

At the Classic Hits Family Fun Day at the Races tomorrow, the horses are just a small part of a much bigger experience.

Starting at midday, the event is a day out for the family with little or no cost and something to entertain people of all ages.

TRAC marketing and sponsorship manager Don Paterson said it was the last summer racing event to be held in Rotorua this year and the day was all about the family.

"There will be a lot of fun activities such as kids' races between the proper races and a chance to win great prizes such as passes to the stock cars."

There will also be kids' quizzes, a sack race, a beach ball race, magic shows, lolly scrambles and face painting.

"It's really a great day out for mum, dad and the kids to get out and see the races - it's absolutely free, there's something going on all the time for the kids," Mr Paterson said.

The first of the eight races will start at 1.28pm, with the last at 5.35pm. Mr Paterson said this meant there would be plenty of time to do the chores in the morning before heading off to Arawa Park in the afternoon.

The garden bar would be open for adults, with music performed by "one-man band" Max Cleaver.

"It's a good way to start Anniversary Weekend, then the kids are back to school. It's the last chance to get out and have a bit of fun with the family - so many people have spent a lot of money these holidays, it's all free here. It's a cost-effective way to keep the kids entertained."

Alcohol or wine may be taken to Arawa Park. One bottle of wine or six beer "stubbies" are allowed per adult of legal drinking age. No spirits, RTDs, kegs or crates are allowed, bags may be checked on course. BYO is not permitted in the grandstands and lounges.