The move to Covid-19 alert level 2 outside Auckland has forced the public to be excluded from attending the Waverley Racing Club's 12-race meeting on Friday.
Following a meeting between New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, stewards and club representatives it was decided that Wednesday's meeting at Taupō and Friday's at Waverley will be closed-door events.
This is based on the Government's announcement of a return to alert level 3 in the Auckland super city region and alert level 2 for the remainder of the country from midday Wednesday until midnight on Friday.
While gatherings of up to 100 people are permitted under alert level 2, the short lead-in time to allow for preparations led to the decision to return to closed-door meetings to protect industry participants.
Waverley Racing Club president Harvey Wilson said it was unfortunate, but necessary given the need to protect industry participants and the general public.
