New GPS-RTK timing and tracking system transforming New Zealand racing

[Wandering Eyes]

New Zealand racing is taking a major leap forward with the rollout of a new 4G real-time GPS-RTK (real-time kinematic positioning) timing and tracking system that is transforming how races are run, viewed, and enjoyed for Kiwi racing fans.

In a partnership between Entain Australia and New Zealand (the operators of TAB, betcha and Trackside), the regulatory body TAB New Zealand, and technology provider tripleSdata, the next-generation 4G GPS-RTK system is being implemented across 30 racecourses nationwide, covering more than 90 percent of all race meetings across both thoroughbred and harness codes.

While GPS technology is used in some international jurisdictions, it is typically limited to two or three key venues. Extending the technology across a large number of New Zealand tracks represents a major commitment to innovation, data quality, and fan engagement.

The new system allows racing fans and Trackside viewers to see their horse’s exact position and speed in real time, with live race maps and on-screen graphics displayed on Trackside TV and TAB digital platforms.

Trackside viewers enjoyed the enhanced graphics across Ellerslie, Kaikoura, Riccarton and Addington over recent weeks, meaning four of the 30 tracks are now operational with the enhanced technology, and more are coming online in the coming weeks.

In addition to transforming live race coverage, the new GPS-RTK system will deliver comprehensive post-race sectional and timing data, offering racing lovers unprecedented insight into race performance.

From precise speed and positioning information to detailed sectional breakdowns, punters and fans alike will be able to see exactly how each race unfolded and how every runner performed throughout. This advanced data will soon be available via trackside.co.nz, providing a powerful new tool for form analysis and enhancing the overall racing experience.

TAB New Zealand CEO Nick Roberts said the technology brings world-class data and insight to the local industry.

“It gives punters more confidence, trainers and owners more insight, and fans a completely new way to experience the thrill of racing,” Roberts said.

“This is another example of the investment that can occur in the New Zealand racing industry through strong partnerships.”

Entain’s Chief Media Officer Christopher Haigh said rolling out GPS technology on this scale is a significant technical achievement.

“Real-time tracking and advanced data analytics are key parts of modernising New Zealand racing and taking the viewing experience to the next level for racing lovers,” Haigh said.

“They can analyse races more deeply, understanding which horses are finishing strongly, how pace shapes affect results, and how runners perform under pressure. It takes form analysis in New Zealand to a new level.”

tripleSdata CEO and Co-Founder Carlos Santo said tripleSdata is genuinely excited to partner with forward-thinking leaders across the racing industry who share its vision for innovation and the future of race intelligence.

“This rollout represents a major technical undertaking, requiring extensive planning and robust infrastructure to deliver consistent performance across every venue. The outcome is a powerful, high-performance network providing true real-time accuracy — a breakthrough for racing and the first deployment of its kind at this scale.”

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