TAB New Zealand (TAB NZ) has completed a successful transition into power, assuming control of the racing industry in New Zealand. TAB NZ took charge of the racing sector in New Zealand officially from August 1 2020, replacing the Racing Industry Transition Agency (RITA) and New Zealand Racing Board (NZRB). 

TAB NZ will be focused on increasing revenue for the racing industry in New Zealand after a difficult period navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidelines set out through the RITA transition also include a focus on limiting the impact of underage and problem gambling throughout New Zealand.

In a statement, RITA Executive Chair Dean McKenzie highlighted the significance of the transition for the racing industry. “The change marks a significant milestone in the history of the TAB and the racing industry. It also brings to an end a 13-month period of transitioning, as RITA, from the New Zealand Racing Board,” McKenzie said.

The change will allow individual racing codes in New Zealand, autonomy in promoting their own competitions and events. Its envisioned that these changes will bring stability to the industry according to McKenzie: