Ellerslie a hot favourite

Natalie Lentell and Delia Murphy join the excitement at Ellerslie. Photo / Greg Bowker

Punters, youngsters and families turned out for a day of fun at the Ellerslie Racecourse in Auckland.

The New Zealand Herald Christmas Carnival kicked off on a scorching day on Saturday and continued on a not-too-blistering hot day yesterday. Many people came out especially to see some of the country's best thoroughbreds go head to head.

Young Ava French was among those youngsters who turned out with mum and dad for a day of fun and games at the boot party in the Ellerslie Infield, while Natalie Lentell and Delia Murphy were among those cheering on their horses from the stands.

The carnival is set to continue on Friday, New Year's Day.