Horses and heels heat up raceday

Fashions in the Field competitors (from left), Alisha Maxwell, Nivek Miller and Robyn Brooks.

It was a bustling crowd at the 2014 Bayleys International Raceday at Tauranga Racecourse today.

Everything from jockeys and horses to high fashion was on show for the enthusiastic onlookers.

The crowds soaking up the sunshine

Sisters Richelle and Sheena Allely said it was a great day out for their families and they enjoyed the range of things to see and do.

Sheena Allely said she was glad it was a good day for her two children as well as for adults.

"I like the set up. All the different areas and entertainment for the kids and it's so close to home," she said.

Enjoying a family day out (from left), Richelle Allely with son Tutanekai Charteris, 5, and Sheena Allely with son Carter Long, 7, and daughter Sophie Long, 4.

Seven-year-old Tutanekai Charteris eagerly watched as the horses paraded past the fence and said his favourite horse was number four.

"Cause it's got my name," he said with a grin.

The highlight of the day for horse-fanatics was the Windsor Park Stud Japan-NZ International Trophy feature race at 3.52pm.

For people who were not as interested in the horses, there was the Shiseido Fashions In The Field competition to enter or observe for a look at the best of raceday glamour.

Street view:

What is your favourite part of raceday?

"Just the enjoyment of the whole day and watching the jockeys and trainers." - Kay Evans, 59, Papamoa.

"It's just a neat day out and the adrenaline of placing a bet." - Linda Carter, 57, Pyes Pa.

"The atmosphere, winning and catching up with friends." - Gloria Macrae, 50s, Tauriko.

"Backing a winner and it's just a good day out." - Kevin Grubb, 40s, Omokoroa.

"A favourite part for us is seeing good horses race." - Val Gates, 66, Bethlehem.