The NZB Kiwi Slot Auction saw remarkable results at the Karaka sales ring, surpassing all expectations. All nine slots exceeded their $450,000 reserve, setting the stage for an exciting event. The initial $3.5 million prize money, along with a $1 million bonus, attracted both local and international buyers.

The auction kicked off with high spirits as Group One star Seachange set the tone, fetching $725,000 from Singapore businessman John Chew for slot one. The subsequent lots saw a mix of New Zealand and international interests, with slots going to prominent entities like Te Akau Racing and Entain New Zealand.

Te Akau Racing's director Karyn Fenton-Ellis expressed delight in securing a slot and emphasized their transparent process for identifying contenders. Australian businessman Ozzie Kheir and Entain New Zealand added a trans-Tasman element to the race, securing slots with high bids.

Despite fierce bidding, the aggregate for the nine slots reached $6,225,000, with an average price of $691,667 and a median of $700,000. The remaining slots were purchased by various racing clubs and organizations.

The success of the auction was met with enthusiasm from industry leaders like NZTR Chief Executive Bruce Sharrock and NZB managing director Andrew Seabrook, signaling a bright future for the NZB Kiwi event.

The NZB Kiwi Slot Auction Results

Average: $691,667
Aggregate: $6,225,000
Median: $700,000
Slot 1: John Chew - $725,000
Slot 2: Clotworthy Racing - $675,000
Slot 3: Wexford Stables - $700,000
Slot 4: Daniel Nakhle - $675,000
Slot 5: Te Akau Racing - $675,000
Slot 6: Ozzie Kheir - $700,000
Slot 7: Entain New Zealand - $700,000
Slot 8: Forsman Racing - $675,000
Slot 9: Cambridge Stud - $700,000