How can I be a part of Team Te Akau?

First Time Owners & Horse Syndication FAQ's

What is horse syndication?

This means you purchase a share in a horse and race the horse together with a small group of fun people - we know this as 'shared ownership or racing partnership'.

We don't have large partnerships; rather smaller groups of people who get to know each other and enjoy the racing experience together. Te Akau's Karyn Fenton-Ellis MNZM is the syndicate manager for your horse - racehorse syndication is strictly governed by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) and Karyn is an NZTR Licensed Syndicator.

Why should I race a horse with Te Akau?

Having won the NZ premiership five times before setting up stables in 2010 for Te Akau in Singapore, Mark Walker returned to the helm as trainer in April 2022. While in Singapore, he was Champion Trainer four times, most recently in 2021.

Te Akau Racing is New Zealand's leading stable - in the 2020-21 season trainer Jamie Richards established a domestic record 160 wins in New Zealand, including 40 stakes (15 Group 1) in NZ and Australia. Our stable won nearly $8 million in prize money for our owners too - that's triple any other stable.

Before leaving in May 2022 to train in Hong Kong, Jamie Richards turned out over 750 winners in six years, an unequivocal 53 Group 1 winners among 152 stakes victories, including 16 stakes win (6 Group 1) in Australia, and won the Trainers' Premiership four times.

Communication is paramount in our business and owners are kept very informed about their horses whether they are in work or spelling.

We pride ourselves on the loyalty and quality of our staff, realising that good people and good horses are the key to success. We have tremendous staff in every facet and a great team spirit, which includes all owners.

How does Te Akau choose their horses?

The Te Akau team has a wealth of experience (over 40 years of buying thoroughbreds) and consists of Te Akau principal David Ellis CNZM, Te Akau trainer Mark Walker, New Zealand Bloodstock Chairman Joe Walls, bloodstock agent Marcus Corban, and veterinarian Douglas Black.

Who is going to train my horses?

Mark Walker is the Te Akau NZ trainer, based at Matamata. Every year we campaign horses in the South Island, as well as Australia.

Do I have to just race horses in New Zealand?

Te Akau horses race in both the North and South Island in New Zealand, Australia and Singapore. We have also won races in Ireland and England. Horses for our Singapore stable are specifically purchased to race at Kranji and are identified as such.

How can I buy a share?

Simply contact us.

We welcome you to inspect horses at Te Akau Stud by appointment - just drop us an email - or if you are unable to visit, we can discuss options of what share would best suit you. We have shares for every budget - our Yearlings & Shares' page is updated frequently during each day of the sale we are buying at - shares sell very fast so if you are keen on a horse, let us know quickly.

When I buy a share/into a syndicate what does it include?

When you get involved with Te Akau, you know that your horse will be given every opportunity to maximise its potential as an equine athlete. We are committed to bringing out the very best in all of our horses. You will really feel part of the tangerine team and be warmly welcomed. You also receive:

• The acknowledgment of ownership and care for of an incredible animal - horse-welfare is an absolute priority for us
• Love of the sport
• New friendships and camaraderie with like-minded people
• Opportunities to plan trips, travel and have fun - including annual Te Akau owners' events
• The prospect of winning - adrenalin - some people say it's the 'best sensation known'
• Amazing, world-class communication every step of the way about your horse's' progress and plans

Will my name be in the race book?

Each newly formed syndicate is given a separate name i.e. Avantage (Fastnet Rock) is owned by Te Akau Avantage Syndicate (Mgr: Karyn Fenton-Ellis MNZM). Individual names are included if the horse is owned in a smaller racing partnership.

Can I go and see my horses?

Yes, certainly, by appointment at the stables, here at Te Akau Stud, and trials and races on racecourses. You are always very welcome.

What happens if my horse is racing?

Our owners are all regularly updated about every aspect of your horse and you will be well informed about all trials or racing plans for your horse with pre and post trial/race reports.

We pride ourselves on being the best communicators in the business. Our Racing Manager or your Syndicate Manager can advise you on what owners' privileges are available when your horse races. On 'paying entry' or major race days you are entitled to entry and one guest, usually together with a race book and drink voucher.

Does Te Akau take a percentage of your horse's prize money?

No - Te Akau pays out all stakes in full every month with no additional percentage taken. Trainer (10%) and jockey (5%) percentages are deducted by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing prior to stakes being received by us. We also pass on expenses to you at cost.

How is the horse named?

Syndicate members are invited to provide name suggestions.

What is your Animal Welfare policy?

Respect for the thoroughbred in racing and also retirement has always been a top priority at Te Akau. While many fillies and mares are destined for breeding, some of them together with geldings, are found new homes in trekking, showing, dressage, hunting, eventing, polo, show jumping or simply enjoying life / hacking around the farm.

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing has also documented a vision (under the Rules of Racing) for thoroughbred welfare and understands the importance of the issue internationally, forming their protocol after attending the International Forum for Aftercare of Racehorses (IFAR) and launching a joint venture with Equestrian Sport New Zealand (ESNZ) called Thoroughbreds in Equestrian Sport (TiES). It also has an association with the NZ Show Horse Council and sponsors the Off the Track Horse Show Series.

Te Akau fully supports and complies with all aspects of horse well-being, going well above and beyond in our care for our equines at all stages of their careers. We believe in 'loving life after Racing'!

What colours does my horse run in?

The Te Akau tangerine, royal blue stars & striped sleeves, tangerine cap coloured silks - we have been told our colours are stunning as they are easily recognised - they stand out and compliment the colour of horses. They are also known as "the lucky colours".