The New Zealand Racing Industry Transition Agency (RITA) have announced a 30% staffing cut to subsidiary TAB NZ due to the economic pressure of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It was confirmed that 230 staff, including 150 permanent staff, were axed in a cost-cutting exercise that will save the company NZ$11 million. RITA COO Stephen Henry stated that the cancellation of sporting events in New Zealand would cost the company $14 million.

Popular TAB NZ bookie Mark Stafford was the highest-profile victim of the job cuts. The twenty-year veteran had made a name for himself, providing odds on All Blacks and Black Cap matches.

Stafford thanked the New Zealand public for their support on Twitter: