Changes to Karaka sale in 2026

The 2026 edition of the Karaka National Yearling Sale will commemorate a century of New Zealand’s premier thoroughbred auction with a refreshed format designed to enhance the experience for both vendors and buyers.

Scheduled to take place at the iconic Karaka Sales Centre from January 25 to 29, the centennial sale will feature a revised structure:

• Book 1: Approximately 580 yearlings will be offered over two full days on Sunday, January 25, and Monday, January 26.
• Book 2: Around 290 yearlings will go under the hammer on Tuesday, January 27.
• Karaka Summer Sale: A third session, reintroduced for this milestone year, will present up to 200 yearlings on Thursday, January 29. An inspection day is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28.

Andrew Seabrook, Managing Director of New Zealand Bloodstock, expressed enthusiasm about the updated format:

“Our goal is to assemble the very best line-up of yearlings, validating our annual yearling harvest as the flag-bearing sale for New Zealand breeders with the cream of the crop on offer.”

He further noted the benefits for international participants:

“While the condensed Book 1 and Book 2 (sessions) will be full days of selling, the format will be highly advantageous from an international buyer’s perspective. They want to be away from home for as little time as possible during what is an extremely busy sales calendar.”

The reintroduction of the third session aims to provide a comprehensive offering:

“The introduction of the third session is to ensure we have a complete offering for both vendors and buyers, boosted by some attractive sales terms and a NZ$200,000 Karaka Millions bonus.”

Seabrook emphasized the significance of the centennial event:

“The 100-year anniversary is truly an exciting occasion. We are thrilled to be celebrating such a milestone on behalf of the wider industry and are looking forward to producing one of the best catalogues seen in New Zealand.”

Entries for the National Yearling Sales Series will open in June. Details regarding the National Online Yearling Sale are currently under discussion, with timing to be confirmed.

Karaka 2026 Sale Schedule:

• Book 1: Lots 1–580
  • Day 1: Sunday, January 25
  • Day 2: Monday, January 26
• Book 2: Lots 581–871
  • Tuesday, January 27
• Karaka Summer Sale: Lots 872–1000+
  • Thursday, January 29

This landmark event promises to be a highlight in the global thoroughbred calendar, celebrating a century of excellence in New Zealand’s breeding and racing industry.