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CLUB HISTORY

LANCASTER PARK TROTTING CLUB

The new regime operated as a proprietary Club until March 1892 when the Cricket Company decided not to allow a proprietary Club the use of Lancaster Park for Trotting after the expiry of the existing arrangements. If Trotting was to continue at the Park the Company ruled it must be conducted by an amateur Club that would direct the profit towards stakes rather than towards the income of a few shareholders.

In October 1892 it was reported that the following proprietary Clubs were operating:

Lancaster Park Trotting Club racing at Lancaster Park

Plumpton Park Trotting Club racing at Sockburn

Lower Heathcote Racing and Trotting Club racing at Heathcote

New Brighton Racing Club racing at New Brighton

Credit: NZMTC: Historical Notes compiled by D C Parker

NEW BRIGHTON TROTTING CLUB

NEW BRIGHTON HARNESS RACING CLUB: EARLY HISTORY

At a meeting held in the Sawyer's Arms Hotel in February 1883, the stewards "were empowered to select a course for races anywhere within the Avon Road District."

The stewards chose land that skirted the swamps adjacent to New Brighton beach. Racing in those rather primitive conditions, the "Beach Racing Club", virtually the New Brighton Trotting Club, began to lose its savour, and the beach club was wound up, the grounds were taken over by the "Canterbury Sports Club Ltd" with the object of "encouraging athletics."

With the demise of this company, Henry Mace, a soft drinks manufacturer, bought the land and built "Brooklyn Lodge" where he founded a stud and training and racing stables. Once he sank wells for irrigation, upgraded the track and built accommodation for the public, trotting became an established sport in the area. The New Brighton Trotting Club was then re-established; and, leasing the track from Henry Mace, held the first official race meeting on March 16th, 1895.

Henry Mace died in 1902 and the next year Robert Button bought the course from Catherine Mace for £2,000, leasing it to the trotting club until 1909 when the Button family sold it for the same amount to the club.

During the First World War, though sections of the army used the grounds for training exercises, racing continued and prospered with further amenities being added for the public's accommodation. Then came the Second World War, and once again the grounds were given over to the Defence Department - and the club raced at Addington.

During the post war decade trotting on the New Brighton grass track was a popular sport, but members quickly realised that where night trotting had been introduced, clubs showed an increase in profit - and times were getting hard for this one!

In 1962, members voted in favour of selling their freehold course to the Christchurch City Council. As a result, in May 1963 the club purchased shares in the Addington Trotting Course Ltd. and held their final race meeting on the New Brighton course on September 21st, 1963. Since that time, the New Brighton Harness Racing Club as it is now known, has made Addington Raceway its home.

These days, the imposing QEII sports complex stands on the former New Brighton course.
++ NOTE: Since the 2011 earthquakes the sports complex has been demolished and the current plan is relocate Avonside Girls High and Shirley Boys High to a new facility on the site.



Credit: NZTC: Centennial Publication

THE BEGINNINGS

In December 1900 Mr G H McHaffie, who was not only a Committeeman of the NZMTC but also a member of the NZ Trotting Association, expressed the view that the three Trotting Clubs around Christchurch should combine to form one strong central body racing at the Metropolitan’s course at Addington. He was of the opinion that a great deal would depend on the attitude of the Colonial Secretary but that if Plumpton Park and New Brighton Trotting Clubs were to throw in their lot with the Metropolitan Club such centralization could only be of gain to the sport. An amalgamation of the three Clubs would rub off all the corners and place the Metropolitan Club in a sound financial position and enable it to make many improvements which would be of direct benefit to the public.

In February 1905 it was reported that the popular Trotting Club Secretary, Mr A I Rattray, had married Mrs Mace, widow of Mr H Mace soft-drink manufacturer of New Brighton. Mr Mace was a Committeeman of the Canterbury Trotting Club and was prominent in the affairs of the New Brighton Trotting Club and its course.

Without doubt history has a habit of repeating itself as in January 1906 a report stated:

“The lot of a caretaker of a Trotting ground is not a happy one and Mr French, the hard-working and painstaking custodian of the Metropolitan Trotting Club’s grounds, is just now finding this out. He has gates open from five in the morning until nine at night and does everything he possibly can for the convenience of the trainers who are still not happy. Trainers pay about seven pence a week licence fee for training on the Metropolitan grounds and such a very modest cost for such great facilities ought to make them deeply grateful instead of discontented.”

A report in the NZ REFEREE of 31st July 1907 stated that Messrs T H Davie, M H R Hood-Williams and C Hood-Williams waited on Sir Joseph Ward in regard to Trotting and the Gaming Bill. They pointed out to the Premier that the Bill as originally drafted made no provision for Trotting and the deputation asked that he include Trotting in the next measure. It was also pointed out that if the clause that no racecourse should be less than six furlongs was adhered to, Trotting would not be possible on the Metropolitan Club’s Course which was only five furlongs in length. In reply to the deputation the Premier promised to look into the matter and give it his best consideration.

In August 1911 a deputation representing the NZ Metropolitan, Canterbury Park and New Brighton Trotting Clubs waited on the Hon. D E Buddo, Minister of Internal Affairs, to protest against the reductions imposed on those Clubs by the findings of the Racing Commission. The Hon. Charles Louisson pointed out that of the eleven days by which Trotting had been reduced throughout the Dominion eight had been taken from the local Clubs and the Ashburton Club. The Minister said that the protest made by the deputation would be recorded but he was personally unable to do anything in the matter as the Commission had been set up by Parliament. Referring to the deputation the media expressed the view that the three Clubs were not well-advised to be continually worrying about the reduction of their days as together they had seventeen days racing, the Metropolitan Club having nine days and Brighton and Canterbury Park four days each. It was pointed out that of the fifty one days trotting for the whole of New Zealand the three Christchurch Clubs had no fewer than seventeen and that in spite of this they were still not satisfied. It was pointed out that the people were paying more for their sport at Addington than they did in the previous year and that judging from the decrease in stakes they were not getting such good sport for their money. The article went on to say that the Metropolitan Club had spent a large amount of money provided by the public in making a grand place for the sport of trotting but the Commission had pointed out that the tenure was unsatisfactory and recommended that the Club should acquire the freehold or the right to race permanemtly on the present ground at a fixed rental. Instead of asking for the moon, the article continued, the Hon. Charles Louisson and his fellow Committeemen should see whether they cannot obtain some fixture of tenure and secure for the people a permanent right to the enjoyment of the grounds an buildings which have been improved and erected at a cost of some £40,000 which money has been provided by the public.

In the NZ REFEREEof 15th November 1911 it was reported that Mr A I Rattray, Secretary of the NZMTC bred Cleveland, the sire of Clive which dead-heated with Quincy in the Dominion Handicap at Addington.

In October 1912 it was reported that Mr H E Goggin, the clerical assistant to Mr Rattray at the office of the NZMTC, returned to Christchurch after a holiday spent in Australia, mostly in Sydney and Melbourne.

A report in the NZ REFEREE of 9th April 1913 stated that a very well deserved tribute was paid to Mr A I Rattray, Secretary of the three trotting clubs of Christchurch, when on the first day of the NZMTC’s Easter Meeting at Addington he was presented with a handsome silver tea and coffee service and salver as a mark of the Clubs’ appreciation of his services to the sport. The Hon. Charles Louisson, President of the NZMTC, in making the presentation said that as most of those present were aware Mr Rattray had recently taken a trip to America for the benefit of his health and they were glad to see he had returned fully restored. It is largely due to Mr Rattray’s efforts, he continued, that the sport of trotting had reached the high standard it now held and the Clubs felt that the present was a good opportunity to show how they valued Mr Rattray’s work. Mr Howell, President of the Canterbury Park Trotting Club and Mr Archer, President of the New Brighton Trotting Club also spoke briefly of their appreciation of Mr Rattray’s services. Mr Rattray in his reply expressed his thanks for the kindness which had been shown him and said that what he had done for the sport had been done as a labour of love.

In August 1913 it was reported that Mr E C McDermott had joined the professional ranks and scored a couple of good wins with Rosalie which had won two of the Trotters’ races at he Augus Meeting.

In March 1914 in the Supreme Court, Christchurch, a claim by Clifford Tasker against the NZMTC for £750 damages in respect of injuries sustained by the trotting horse Michael Gillander was heard before Mr Justice Dennison and a special jury. Tasker also claimed £40 damages being the sum paid the Veterinary Surgeon in connection with the horse’s injuries. Tasker stated that while training his horse around the track he saw a draught mare coming towards him at a gallop and the mare hit Michael Gillander on the left side near the shoulder knocking him over. His horse fell on top of the witness who had been flung from the sulky and then scrambled to its feet and galloped around the track. In the opinion of the jury the gates were insecurely fastened thus allowing the draught mare to get onto the track and it found the Club liable on various counts and granted damages of £200.

Under the heading of “Athletics” in the NZ REFEREE of 19th August 1914 it was reported that

“C S Thomas, the Dominion half-mile champion, ran third in his heat in the A A A Championships at Stamford Bridge when, by breaking the standard time, he won a bronze medal.”

The Chairman of the Auckland Trotting Club, Mr John Rowe, attended the NZMTC’s 1915 Cup Meeting and afterwards said that he had been much impressed with the Course, its facilities and the class of trotting presented. The way the public supported the sport had been an eye opener to him. This was his first visit to Addington and he freely recognized that the standard of trotting in Christchurch was quite phenomenal.

In the NZ REFEREE of 23rd January 1918 it was reported:

“At eleven o’clock last Thursday morning when the NZ Metropolitan track was practically deserted by trainers an unexpected visit was paid to the grounds by Mr C M Hill the well-known aviator of Sockburn who, owing to engine trouble at an altitude of 2000 feet, found it necessary to descend to the Grounds. As the trouble could not be repaired on the spot the machine was later taken to Sockburn by lorry to receive attention.”



Credit: NZMTC: Historical Notes compiled by D C Parker

ESTABLISHMENT OF NZMTC

The Lancaster Park Amateur Trotting Club having initiated the establishment of a new Trotting track at Addington conferred with the Canterbury Trotting Club as the two Clubs had had an understanding that they should purchase a site where they could pool their resources for the provision of an up-to-date track with amenities. The Canterbury Trotting Club, whose sub-committee had not been successful in their search for a joint property, revealed an astounding reversal of their previous policy when they declined to join the Lancaster Park Amateur Trotting Club in the establishment of the track on the Twigger estate, the main objection being that the land was not freehold. This decision posed a real problem for the Lancaster Park Club as it could not see its way clear to finance, from its own resources, the purchase of the lease and the development of the project.

The two Clubs had enjoyed an amicable relationship up to this time which is understandable as a number were members of both Clubs and the Executive Officers and the Raceday Officials acted for both Clubs. The aims of the Clubs were similar, as they were to provide good sport on an amateur basis and make provision for the future by setting aside funds for development. The Committee and Members of the Canterbury Trotting Club, which was the leading Trotting Club in the country at that time, were generally in favour of the retention of the Club’s identity and, to this end, pursued negotiations with the A & P Association on the further development of its course at the Showgrounds. The President of the Club, Mr T Marr, strongly favoured the status quo, and was negotiating a further seven years lease from the A & P contingent on a number of improvements being carried out.

At the Annual General Meeting of the Canterbury Trotting Club held on 20th June, 1899 compelling reasons were put forward for seeking a joint venture with Lancaster Park but a motion “That the Canterbury Trotting Club cast in its lot with the Lancaster Park Club in taking over the new grounds” was defeated. This decision prompted a sharp reaction from the Lancaster Park Club which called its committee together on 22nd June, 1899 and decided to take the following action:-

A) That plans be prepared for the provision of grandstands and other necessary buildings and improvements on the newly acquired site at Addington.

B) That a 5 furlong track be surveyed, laid out and tenders called for its construction.

C) That the name of the Club be altered to the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club.

The last clause gave the new Club its official date of birth and immediate steps were taken to carry out the development of the new grounds. In some quarters it was felt that the new name selected by the Club was somewhat pretentious but most Trotting fans agreed that a Club which was prepared to stake all its assets in a bid to provide first-class racing conditions and amenities for Trotters and Patrons was entitled to exercise some degree of freedom in the choice of name. The Executive of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club lost no time expediting the establishment of their new grounds which were to be ready for their November Meeting. Tenders were called for the erection of the grandstand and the formation of the 5 furlong track which was to be a chain wide except at the bends where it was to be slightly less.

Considerable difficulty at this time was being experienced in bringing the amalgamation of the two Clubs to fruition. The Colonial Secretary decided to take a more prominent part in the dispute and during an address delivered to a meeting of delegates from all Trotting Clubs assembled in Wellington on 20th July, 1899, the Colonial Secretary hinted that amalgamation of the two leading Christchurch Clubs was one of urgency and if not proceeded with the Clubs would have to make do with fewer permits. This created panic among some of the Canterbury Trotting Club members who hastily requisitioned a Special General Meeting to reconsider the Club’s attitude towards amalgamation. This meeting held on 11th August was characterized by noisy and often bitter debate as the two factions within the Club argued the issue. Finally the Chairman, Mr T Marr, accepted a motion supporting amalgamation but when put to the Meeting was lost by a single vote, he having exercised both his deliberative and casting votes against the proposal.

A number of the members of the Canterbury Trotting Club were also members of the newly formed NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club so at the latter Club’s first Annual General Meeting held on 20th August, 1899 its President, Mr V Harris reported on the steps which had been taken to persuade the Canterbury Trotting Club to join forces in the development of Addington. In face of such non-co-operation and the shortage of time before the inaugural meeting he recommended the letting of contracts for the development of the grounds and track to the extent of £1,350 and the preparation of plans for a grandstand and other essential buildings.

In view of the pressure being applied, the Canterbury Trotting Club decided to send a deputation to Wellington in an attempt to persuade the Colonial Secretary to change his attitude regarding the amalgamation. However, the Honorable James Carroll advised the deputation he would arrange for letters to be sent to both Clubs setting out his views and advising that after the announced meetings of the separate Clubs had been held, that is, after the current year, it would be necessary for the two Clubs to amalgamate. Following the National Elections in early December 1899 the office of Colonial Secretary passed to the hands of the Honorable Joseph Ward who made his views known. After the Canterbury Trotting Club had concluded its advertised meeting on 26th December, 1899 and 1st January, 1900 he arranged for the publication of the official list of permits allocated to the Clubs for the balance of the 1899/1900 season. The outcome of this was that the Canterbury Trotting Club suffered a reduction in permits but in spite of the fact that its permits for the season had now already been used the Club applied for its usual two day meeting to be run on May 24th and 26th, 1900. The New Zealand Trotting Association had on file an application from the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club seeking approval to race on the same dates at its new grounds and giving as its reason that its rival Club’s permits had been exhausted. This latter application indicated that the “Met” proposed to forego the usual Easter dates which it conducted when it raced under its former name of the Lancaster Park Amateur Trotting Club.

The New Zealand Trotting Association having sought further information from the Colonial Secretary was left in no doubt that no further permit would be issued to the Canterbury Trotting Club unless a firm arrangement to amalgamate was published by the two Clubs concerned.

In an endeavour to settle the dispute amicably, the Association decided its President, Mr P Selig, should see the President of each Club with a view to establishing an acceptable basis for amalgamation. The only success he achieved was to extract a promise from each President that a special meeting of members of the respective Clubs would be called as soon as possible. These meetings were to be held on the same date, 25th April, 1900 and while the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club called a special meeting of its members the Canterbury Trotting Club merely summoned its Committee together and the decisions reached by the two Clubs were sent on to be dealt with at a special meeting of the Association two days later. The “Met” advised it was willing to amalgamate in accordance with the wishes of the Colonial Secretary and had appointed a sub-committee to meet a similar sub-committee from the Canterbury Trotting Club for the purpose of drafting amalgamation proposals. On the other hand, the Committee of the Canterbury Trotting Club forwarded a copy of its decision which stated “that as the whole question was of vital importance to the welfare of the Club the Committee did not see its way clear to act on the matter until the Annual General Meeting of the Club in June”. Under these circumstances the Association felt it had no choice but to refuse to sanction the programme submitted by the Canterbury Trotting Club and to approve that submitted by the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club to race on the disputed dates, the 24th and 26th May, 1900.

The opposition to amalgamation by the Canterbury Trotting Club continued and at its Annual Meeting in June a motion supporting amalgamation was defeated by 26 to 6.

It was also agreed to approve the re-negotiation of the lease from the A & P Association for a term of 7 years provided arrangements could be made to extend the track to 5 furlongs. Also approved were plans foe improvements and a programme for a two day meeting to be held in August as well as the appointment of a deputation to wait upon the next meeting of the Trotting Association to ascertain why its submitted programme for May, which fulfilled all requirements, had not been approved.

The deputation was not successful and in view of the opinion of the Colonial Secretary the Association provided a list of proposed dates for the next season showing Canterbury Trotting Club being allocated a single conditional permit, the conditional being that it must race on the Metropolitan Trotting Club’s course. This, however, was not possible during August as the grounds and track would be in a contractor’s hands for alterations and the completion of some building projects so the Trotting Association recommended to the Colonial Secretary that the Canterbury Trotting Club conduct its meeting, which would be the last, on the Showground Course. When this meeting held on 15th and 17th August, 1900 had been concluded, amalgamation appeared to be a probable reality. The two Clubs appointed sub-committees to consider amalgamation and it was agreed that the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club take in the whole of the membership of the Canterbury Trotting Club, and that the names of the present Committee and Stewards would be submitted to arbitration and that each Club would appoint an Arbitrator who in turn were empowered to appoint an umpire.

The Canterbury Trotting Club provided further complications for a successful amalgamation in that they approved the election of the 13 Committeemen as life members of the Canterbury Trotting Club and also appointed one of the Committeemen as Arbitrator. This was not acceptable to the Metropolitan Club and eventually the Canterbury Trotting Club appointed another Arbitrator as they were becoming aware of the attitude of the Press and the public to their continued opposition to amalgamation. They also rescinded their decision to appoint all their Committee as life members, only one, Mr H Mace, being appointed.

The final act of surrender by the Committee of the Canterbury Trotting Club was embodied in a motion authorizing payment of the accumulated funds of the Club to the Arbitrators when requested. Early in December, 1900 the Presidents of both Clubs received letters from the Arbitrators, Messrs P Selig and T H Davey, advising that the following Officers had been selected to act as Committeemen and Stewards of the amalgamated Club, for the balance of the season.

Committee: (ex NZMTC) Messrs E Clarkson, V Harris, C Louisson, G H McHaffie, G Payling and L Wilson

(ex CTC) Messrs W Hayward, T Marr and J S Slade

Stewards: (ex NZMTC) Messrs V Harris, C Louisson, G Payling and G B Ritchie

(ex CTC) Messrs J S Berry, W Hayward, H Mace, T Marr and J S Slade

Also appointed a Steward was Mr E C Jagger who was not associated with either Club

Of the aforenamed Officers of the Canterbury Trotting Club Mr J S Slade was its Vice President, Mr T Marr its Treasurer and Mr H Mace a Committeeman. Mr Mace was also an Officer of the New Brighton Trotting Club.


Credit: NZMTC: Historical Notes compiled by D C Parker

ADDINGTON TROTTING GROUNDS

Having decided, at a meeting of the Committee held on 22nd June, 1899, to proceed with the development of its own venue, the Lancaster Park Amateur Trotting Club completed a 21 year lease as from 1st June 1899 of 36 acres, one rood and 30 perches from the Charitable Aid Board, the beneficiary under the Twigger Estate. The Club changed its name and arranged for plans to be prepared for the provision of Stands and other necessary amenities.

Mr F J Barlow was appointed Architect on 22nd June 1899 and was instructed to submit plans for a track and buildings. Following the approval of the plans, a contract for fences and stables was let to Mr James Rowe at £580. A contract was also let for the building of a totalisator house, judge’s box and entrance gates. The laying of the track and improving Jacksons Creek for drainage purposes was left to the Architect to make the best arrangements possible.

A sub-committee was appointed to arrange with the Architect for the erection of seven bays of a Grandstand at a cost not to exceed £900. Money however, was a problem

But an anonymous offer was received to loan the Club £300 interest free for twelve months on condition that a Grandstand was erected immediately. It was subsequently learned that the anonymous offer, which was accepted, was made by the Club’s Secretary Mr A I Rattray. It was decided that half the stand be erected if it could be done for £1,150 and also that the necessary stabling and toilet facilities be completed at a cost of £65. At the same time a horse and dray were purchased together with the equipment required to maintain the track.

It was reported in the NEW ZEALAND REFEREE of 20th September that the Club’s new grounds wore a busy appearance as the contractor for the formation of the track had half a dozen horse teams at work excavating and filling and a considerable amount of soil was removed to make the track level. The totalisator house was a rather substantial building and was of an up-to-date character. As the foundations for a section of the Grandstand were laid and building materials were on the site, it was anticipated that the work would be completed in time for the proposed inaugural Meeting on 6th November 1899. It was realized that at least a season would be required to get the whole property in order and when this was done it would be hard to beat as a Trotting property.

A report by the correspondent “Spectator” in the NEW ZEALAND REFEREE of 25th October 1899 stated:

“I visited the new grounds and my first thought was of the new track. The entire width had been rolled no less than seven times with a three ton roller and was fairly solid considering the amount of filling necessary to bring it up to its required level. The turns had been banked and there would be a drop of nearly four feet from the top end of the track to the winning post. The new track is a full chain wide and five furlongs in length and the turns could be easily negotiated although the straight may seem rather short to some. I took the liberty of jogging my horse once round the track in something slower than a two minute gait and then had a look at the buildings and enclosures. The Totalisator house is built on such a scale that few Totalisator buildings in New Zealand are equal to it. Though it is situated well back from the Grandstand it should prove very convenient as it will be approachable by those inside and outside the paddock enclosure. A section of the Grandstand is completed to a stage where it will seat a large assemblage although it is far from finished. Boxes and stalls will be ready for use and picket and dividing fences finished. The grounds will have a bare appearance but the Club will keep on working and improving it and it will not be long before they can turn their property into one of the beauty spots of Canterbury”.

Twelve months later further considerable improvements had been made to the grounds while the area surrounding the Stand had more he appearance of a well-appointed garden than a racecourse. A driveway was formed with English trees planted on either side and some thousands of loads of soil were distributed and a lawn laid and colourful flowerbeds installed. To protect the race track a training track was laid inside the main track. Several alterations made to the Stand were greatly appreciated by patrons. A liquor booth and luncheon room was provided and it was proposed that anew totalisator house be built nearer the Stand and the present totalisator house be used as a tearoom. An article in the NEW ZEALAND REFEREE at this time gave credit to the Secretary, Mr Rattray, for the work carried out by him and stated that when visitors from other districts came to Addington in November the conclusion would be forced on them that the property of the Metropolitan Club stood far ahead of any similar body in the Australasian colonies.

The sinking of a deep well and the provision of storage tanks was undertaken in January 1901. By May of that year further improvements were carried out and the area which was previously the saddling paddock was converted into a member’s carriage paddock and the lawn was extended.

Sixty horse boxes were provided along the Showgrounds fence which were railed in with plenty of room to prepare horses for their events. A gate at the northern end enabled competitors to go straight onto the track.

By now £5,000 had been spent on improvements and it was estimated that another £1,500 would be required to complete the work planned.

The sporting correspondent for the NEW ZEALAND REFEREE in an article on 23rd October 1901 was very fulsome in his praise of the improvements carried out to Addington and wrote:

“Visitors to Christchurch next week will have the opportunity of seeing what can be done with the sport of trotting by men who are good sportsmen and also of sound business judgment. The Metropolitan Trotting Club for the past few years has been exceptionally fortunate in the Officers it has secured and it deservedly holds the position of the model Trotting Club south of the line. It’s Course and grounds are probably the fastest and certainly the finest of any Trotting Club in Australasia and the improvements made since the Club’s last meeting will make many of our leading Racing Clubs look to their laurels. Long stretches of sward, tastefully laid out flowerbeds, judiciously planted trees and shrubs, asphalted paths including the spaces around the totalisator as safeguards against wet weather, handsome stands and a pretty teahouse are among the conveniences and sights which go to contribute to the comfort and pleasure of visiting patrons. A better sight of the races will be obtained on account of the erection of a high galvanized iron fence around the back of the Course which throws the horses and riders into stronger relief. The outside public has received a share of consideration in the recent improvements. It is worth noting that while the Club has been improving its grounds, it has also been wiping off its indebtedness and increasing stakes. Its present position is a remarkable example of what may be done with a sport when the management of it falls into good hands”.

In May 1904, improvements were carried out to the saddling paddock area which was re-sited and forty new boxes erected, the old ones being dismantled. The fences surrounding the paddock were so arranged that both outside and inside patrons could see the horses being saddled up. The new paddock covered over three quarters of an acre and greatly added to the appearance of the grounds. A caretaker’s cottage was built near the main entrance thus enabling someone to be in attendance at the grounds at all times. The racetrack was reformed and the new composition contained a big proportion of loam which it was anticipated would give a better footing than previously while the slope on the track would help to keep it dry in bad weather. However, bad weather and rain hampered the reforming of the track turning it into quagmire in places, the back straight in particular, being knee deep in mud. Everything possible was done to get the track into fair order and several teams of horses were engaged in walking round and round with harrows being used almost daily.

Having been successful in leasing an additional 17 acres from the Charitable Aid Board, steps were taken in the second half of 1909 to carry out major improvements to the property. Surveyors were engaged to plan a six furlong track and in August of that year, Messrs S and A Luttrell submitted a comprehensive plan for future developments. The plan included the provision of a new totalisator house, a public grandstand, horse boxes, new boxes for member’s carriages, eight acres of lawn, three lakes with the new Course of six furlongs.

A feature of Luttrell’s plan was the utilization of Jacksons Creek to provide a lake along the western boundary running from near the track towards the front entrance. Two sections only were completed at the track end with the balance of the creek as a culvert. The Club’s caretaker, Mr J French, was instructed to proceed with the construction of the new six furlong track which was used for the first time on 10th February 1910.

In August of 1912, further works were authorized and these included extensions to the saddling paddock and stalls, bridges over the lake and a roadway to the outside enclosure.

In February 1913, the Charitable Aid Board agreed with the Waimairi County Council to surrender a strip of land one half chain wide along the Wrights Road frontage to allow for road widening. The Club agreed with the proposal.

With improvements always in mind, the fence along the back of the track was painted white enabling patrons to see the horses more clearly. In the past, it had been difficult in some lights to distinguish the competitors on that part of the Course.

In October 1913, it was reported that a strip some 40 feet wide had been secured along the back straight enabling that part of the Course to be widened thus improving the two mile starting point.

In March 1914, the Club came in for criticism because of its decision to close the race track for training operations. The view was expressed that the Club’s duty in the interests of the sport was to provide reasonable facilities for training and it could not confine its attention to the holding of Meetings.

In May 1915, the ownership of the Moule Street frontage enabled the Committee to carry out further extensive alterations to the property. At that time the horse stalls were moved to a new position further west making more room available for the outside public. The inside totalisator house was doubled in size and a motor paddock provided for Members.

In October, 1920 the Club decided to make alterations to the entrances for motorcars in an effort to eliminate traffic congestion and it was decided that motorcars plying for hire should not be allowed to enter the grounds but were provided with parking outside the gates.

The need for a hub board round the inside rail was frequently raised by the Canterbury Owners and Breeders Association and following an approach by the Association the Committee decided that they would accede to its request and the wheel board was first used at the 1922 Easter Meeting.

With Canterbury Park holding the lease from late 1922 a joint Grounds Committee was set up and future developments were a matter for both Clubs approval.

In December 1922 the Canterbury Owners and Breeders Association put forward a suggestion to the two Clubs that a subway under the track be constructed to provide patrons with access to the centre area rather than allowing them to walk across the track while horses were doing their preliminaries. It was suggested that while the subway would be a costly undertaking the Clubs should put the work in hand before a fatal accident occurred.

In April 1928 alterations to the turn out of the front straight were carried out and the drivers were satisfied with the improvement and the alterations resulted in more room being provided for patrons in the outside enclosure. It was hoped that this additional space would eliminate the need for patrons to cross the track but the Easter Meeting proved so popular that the Club found itself short of outside accommodation and had to allow patrons access to the area inside the track.

The Grounds Committee which comprised representatives of both Clubs was instructed to ask Mr F W Freeman, Surveyor, to prepare plans for a subway under the track for public access to the centre.

In February 1929 the Christchurch City Council’s offer to extend the high pressure water supply from Lincoln Road to the Addington boundary at a cost of £175 was accepted by the Clubs.

In June 1939 the purchasing of land at the rear of the course from the Butler Timber Company was investigated and the Club’s Surveyor submitted plans using this land to provide a one mile track. The two Clubs held a three months option on the land and in July a Sub-Committee was appointed to go further into the question of purchasing the property and altering the track. Following the investigation, the Canterbury Park Trotting Club purchased the land from the Butler Timber Company paying 4/13th’s of the cost with the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club paying the balance of 9/13th’s. In January 1940 a deed was signed sanctioning the closing of part of Wrights Road with the two Clubs meeting the cost of the formation of the new road which became known as Halls Road.

In October Mr Freeman advised that as soon as the new road was formed he would complete the large plan asked for showing buildings, drains, etc.

In November 1941 the Committee approved the construction of a subway from the outside enclosure to the inside of the track but in the following month it was decided that due to the World situation the provision of a subway be postponed indefinitely.

In October 1942 the minutes of the Club showed that complaints had been received concerning the narrowness of the track in the back straight and the Club agreed to widen this section. In the following February it was decided that the back fence, telegraph poles, tanks and other facilities should be resited to enable the track to be widened.

It was later reported that the work had been completed and the back and home straights were now the same width.

As the suggestion that a one mile track be developed was not proceeded with the land at the back of the course was loaned, gratis, to the Housing Department for war storage, a railway siding was laid and the soil from that area moved to where required by the caretaker. The Department handed the land back in October 1945after the area had been cleared by the removal of the rail siding, telegraph poles and other equipment.

In conjunction with the building of the Counting House in June 1943 the open drain which was between the entrances to the inside and outside enclosures was piped and the area landscaped.

In March 1945 a suggestion from the Canterbury Owners and Breeders Association regarding an alteration to the Showgrounds bend was submitted to the Surveyor, Mr F W Freeman, who advised against the proposal. At this time a section of the lake behind the annex totalisator was filled in and a contract let to B Moore and Sons Ltd for £375 for piping the drain between the lawn and the saddling paddock.

Problems were being experienced with the racetrack and it was reported in September 1948 that both bends from the inside rail to four feet out had been excavated eight inches and clay from a section purchased in Marshlands was used to replace that which had been excavated.

In October 1949 subject to agreement by Canterbury Park an offer was made of £400 was made to the Canterbury A & P Association towards the cost of resiting some of their horse stalls to provide access to the Showgrounds and the Racecourse from Matipo Street. In December the Canterbury Park Trotting Club advised that they were not in favour of the proposal as the Canterbury A & P Association had not carried out its part of an earlier arrangement. The Canterbury Park Trotting Club was asked by the Club to co-operate in this request to the A & P Association so that the proposal could be carried out. In July 1950 the Canterbury A & P Association accepted the offer and the entrance from Matipo Street was completed.

In 1958 in an endeavour to improve the track it was treated with oil and screenings but in October prior to the Cup Meeting the NZ Trotting Horsemen’s Association stated that the track was not fit to race on following its treatment and an undertaking was given by Addington Trotting Course Ltd that the screenings would be removed together with as much oil as possible.

In June 1961 a further improvement was tried out and that was the installation of a lap bell at the top of the front straight and a relay buzzer in the Judge’s box to indicate that the bell was operating. The use of the lap bell was adopted and this Club sounded it over the public address system.

As the inside running rail was due for replacement Mr L S Smart, then President of the Canterbury Park Trotting Club and a member of the Directorate put forward a suggestion that a low rail should be installed. This suggestion was approved by the Club’s Committee and the Directors after viewing a sample authorized its installation. As was to be expected, the NZ Trotting Horsemen’s Association expressed their concern and opposition to the low running rail but they were advised that the Committees of the two Clubs had decided to proceed with its introduction on the basis of its approval by the NZ Trotting Conference.

Adequate water supplies for track maintenance and fire fighting were a major problem and in March 1963 the Waimairi County Council advised they would be proceeding with the installation of additional wells and a pumping station and the Council undertook to provide a minimum of 1,250 gallons of water per minute. The Directors had previously approved the installation of a main from the Council’s supply and this installation was approved by the Christchurch Fire Brigade provided a minimum of 1,250 gallons per minute was available for fire fighting and it was decided the main be extended to cover he horse stall area.

In September 1965 serious flooding of the track occurred and two units of the Fire Department had to be called to pump over 100,000 gallons of water off the track at the Showgrounds bend. As a result of this it was decided that the question of drainage of the track area should be investigated. In the following December serious flooding again occurred at the Showgrounds bend and the Course foreman discovered a sump leading into a nine inch drain under the track which was blocked with twitch and convolvulus. The clearing of the sump overcame the problem.

In December 1965 a suggestion from the Club’s Ways and Means Committee that the introduction of an outside enclosure should be investigated and a special meeting of Directors held on Monday, 6th December 1965 was called to consider the matter. A report and sketched layout by the Secretary showed an outside enclosure could be provided without, to any large degree, interfering with the general facilities which had been introduced for night trotting. However, it was decided that the requirements necessary for access from the No.2 car park to the turnstiles and for the provision of a Doubles Totalisator and catering facilities made the proposal impractical.

In February 1966 the McMillan Estate property on the corner of Moule and Leonard Streets was reported to be for sale and the estimated market value of the three roods and seven perches was £4,000. In September it was decided to make an offer of £3,500 but the beneficiaries of the estate considered that the offer was far too low. In the following March an offer of £4,000 was made to the McMillan Estate trustees. After further negotiations the trustees finally accepted the Company’s offer in December 1967.

In the latter part of 1966 interest was shown by the Clubs in the provision of a photo patrol to cover the racing at Addington and both Photo Finishes Ltd and Shipley’s Radio were experimenting with equipment suitable for night meetings. On the 11th April 1967 representatives of the three Clubs viewed demonstrations o video tapings of races by Photo Finishes and filming by R G Kennard. As both operators favoured towers of at least 50 to 60 feet high the matter was held over for further investigation. In December of that year the NZ Trotting Conference advised that a combined meeting of Clubs in Canterbury had discussed the question of the filming of races and that surplus NZ Electricity Department towers could be purchased for approximately £200 plus transport. The Club’s engineer Mr C E Fenwick advised that in his opinion the estimated cost of installing the 45 foot towers extended to 60 feet would be in the vicinity of £650. It was decided that the matter should be further investigated. In June 1968 Mr R G Kennard of Shipley’s Radio advised that for $170 per day for one camera he was willing to provide video recording facilities and his offer was accepted.

In July 1968 two towers surplus to the requirements of the NZED were purchased and quotations for their modification were received with the successful tenderer being Campion and Irving who quoted $1,138 with the estimated cost of two towers being $2,728. A problem arose with the erection of the towers as Campion and Irving could not commence the work for at least two months. At this stage it was agreed that Nuttalls Ltd be engaged to erect the first tower after a release of the relative part of the contract was received from Campion and Irving.

In December 1966 the question of the watering of the track was causing concern and the Chairman reported that an 18,000 gallon petrol tank with rear wheels had become available at a cost of £450 and that if eight wheels were provided at the rear of the cart it could also be used as a roller at an approximate total cost of £800. It was decided at this stage that the tank and rear wheels be purchased and in due course the new water cart was completed.

In May 1967 the Directors decided that a sealed walkway should be provided round the perimeter of the birdcage and if it should prove unsatisfactory the area be returfed. The first coat of seal was completed by the end of May and the second coat finished in pink Hanmer marble chips was laid at a later date.

In March 1968 as a means of off setting the cost of the closed circuit TV and the photo patrol it was decided that fifteen slides with 15 ten second spots per night each be introduced to gross an income of £225 per day. As a further means of earning additional income it was decided in April 1969 that the Directors investigate the possibility of the provision of advertising hoardings on the grounds but excluding the track area.

In May 1969 a jogging track within the Halls Road area was installed.

In December 1970 a report from the Honorary Track Supervisor, Mr B B Woods, was received in which he outlined the shortcomings of the track. He said that in places there was no track left to work, that the sub-grade in general had deteriorated and the drainage was insufficient to cope with the large asphalted area in front of the public stand. It was estimated that it would cost in excess of $30,000 to replace the sub grade and a further $5,000 to improve the drainage. There would be further costs incurred in providing a suitable racing surface as the right type of material did not appear to be available in Canterbury. It was decided that the matter should be investigated further and the Architect asked to assist in overcoming the drainage problem.

In March the following year, the Company Surveyor, Mr Middleton, advised that the drainage was the responsibility of the Christchurch Drainage Board as the drain near the Clarence Street Railway crossing reduced in size with the consequent flooding of Addington. It was decided to call for tenders to carry out the work necessary to improve the overall drainage and the Board was advised of the acceptance of their suggestions and asked that they expedite the necessary improvements to the drainage away from the Raceway.

In June 1971 sketch plans were prepared by the Architect for the overall development of the Addington Raceway property.

In July the Directors discussed the possibilities of developing the area between the Public and Members stands with the Architect who said the first stage would be the building of a new Stewards stand with administration facilities and the second stage would be the replacement of the existing Stewards stand with additional Members facilities.

As part of the track improvement plan the Course Superintendent submitted an estimate of $2,500 for completing a curb and channel under the hub rail. This work was proceeded with progressively and the track levels corrected as the curbing and channeling was completed. As part of the programme for improving the drainage three additional pipes were laid under the track to eliminate flooding in the Public stand and birdcage areas and pipes were also provided for TV cables and other circuits should they be required.

The outcome of the negotiations with the Drainage Board by the Company Surveyor was the provision of a new drain from the Club’s property to the Board’s drain situated on the opposite side of the railway and this drain would cost between $3,500 & $4,000. In March 1972 reports on a scheme to carry out track improvements were received from Mr B B Woods and Farrier Waimak. The estimated cost, including Surveyors fees, was $18,000 and the suggested scheme was approved. A tender of $5,879 submitted by Mitchell and Rodgers for the laying of a storm water drain from inside the racetrack to join up with the Drainage Board’s drain on the opposite side of the railway was accepted and completed at the tender cost.

Reporting on the track improvements Mr Woods stated that as there was a weakness in the subgrade between the mile start and the front straight it had been necessary to dig it up and fill the section with stablising material and re-lay the track top.

In July 1972 Mr Woods, who had just been appointed a Director of Addington Raceway Ltd as a representative of the New Brighton Trotting Club, in reporting on the progress of the work being carried out on the track said a further development was necessary and a decision made as to whether the clay should be covered with a bituminous emulsion and then covered with sufficient top to limit any possibility of damage to the bitumen surface. The possibility of stockpiling oyster shell was also investigated. The estimated cost of the renovation of the track was $16,500 and the bitumen emulsion a further $4,285.

In August Mr Woods said that the new drain under the track was completed, that the curb and channeling was well underway and prices totaling $16,425 had been accepted for the provision of clay and eighth inch grit to dust for the track surface. The spraying of the clay with a bituminous emulsion had been held over due to unfavourable weather conditions.

In October of that year Mr Woods reported that he and the Course Superintendent were concerned that the track material was not binding and that he had called for reports from Farrier Waimak and the Ministry of Works. Following tests by Farrier Waimak, it was recommended that 3/16th grit and lime dust should be added to the present material. Farrier Waimak were asked to lay a trial strip on a bend of the track approximately two chains in length. It was decided that if the trial strip was successful the whole track be thus treated. Following this it was agreed that Farrier Waimak re-lay the inside thirty feet of the track and the full width of the home straight in a similar manner to the trial strip.

In August 1972 it was reported in the Chairman of Directors Annual Report that a new training track had been provided in the centre of the race track and proved extremely popular with local and visiting trainers.

The sealing in the birdcage proved so successful that the constructing and sealing of a six foot wide strip the full length of the Queens Drive was put in hand in August 1973 at a cost of $1,860.

In December 1975 following consideration of a report on security, five sets of twin fluorescent street lanterns controlled by daylight switches were installed to illuminate the area between the front entrance and the rear of the stands during the night hours. As part of the security plan an alarm system was installed in the Office in February 1976 by Wormald Vigilant Ltd at a cost of $1,036.

In April 1976 a 2,500 gallon tank from a petrol tanker was purchased for $600 with the object of it being used in the construction of a new track watering cart.

In June the Members driveway was reconstructed and, for the first time, sealed.

In July 1978 Mr R G Kennard presented his method of electronic timing to the NZ Trotting Conference and in April 1979 experiments on electronic timing were completed and a request made to operate a system on a trial basis under race day conditions at the Inter Dominion Championships. The question of costs to be clarified with the NZ Trotting Conference. In September 1982 Race Finishes Services Ltd quoted $160 per race, excluding operators fees, for the provision of electronic timing in conjunction with photo finish equipment provided it was used 70 times a year. This was approved in principle by the Committee and a demonstration of the equipment was held at the Trials on the 8th December 1982.

In March 1983 it was reported that the reliability of one camera was not entirely satisfactory and it was decided that two timekeepers should continue to be employed until the system was proved to be satisfactory. In July Mr A F McDonald of the New Brighton Trotting Club advised that an alternative method of incorporating the electronic timing with the photo finish was being investigated by Mr Brian Nairn. In August the Secretary stated that the photo finish electronic timing equipment was in operation and apart from the need to rule in the finish line on the photograph the system was working satisfactorily. In May 1984 it was reported that Messrs Gavin and Rogers would be trying out their new coloured photofinish camera in combination with the electronic timing equipment in late May. In October of that year it was reported that due to a delay in completing the new system to be operated by the Judge it could not be installed it was hoped until just prior to the Cup Meeting.

In May 1980 the Chairman of Addington Raceway drew attention to the possible closure of the Christchurch Gas Works and it was decided that exploratory discussions be held regarding an alternative. In the following month the Christchurch Gas Co. Ltd advised that the supply of gas would be discontinued and that each consumer would receive three months notice as to when the supply would terminate. Following advice from them that the supply of gas would be discontinued late in 1981 the Directors decided to refer the matter to the Architects for a report. They submitted one from Weenick and Thomas regarding conversion from gas to another source of energy but the Architects were informed the Company preferred electricity. In May 1981 the Gas Company advised that the supply would be terminated at the beginning of September which left only thirteen weeks to convert. In June 1981 Weenick & Thomas reported that the cost of replacing gas with electricity would be $226,000. As this figure was accepted the Directors decided to approach the NZ Racing Authority to ascertain if the Company could be reimbursed from the Amenities Fund under the Annual Minimum Disbursement Scheme. However in August the Authority advised such a claim could not be allowed under the scheme. In view of this it was decided the Company should make a submission to the Authority for a loan to cover the expenditure incurred in the conversion. In October 1981 the Committee agreed that $150,000 be advanced by way of an interest bearing loan to the Company to fund the conversion of the Course from gas to electricity and the Canterbury Park Trotting Club offered to loan the Company $50,000 under the same terms. An application was then made by Addington Raceway Ltd to the NZ Racing Authority for a loan to cover the cost of the conversion and in January 1982 the Authority advised that a loan of $200,000 bearing interest at 8% was granted with full repayment being made within three years from the date of advance that was the 1st May 1982. This met with the approval of the Committee.

In March 1981 the property at 11 Lindores Street was on the market at $25,000. The Directors decided to make an offer of $23,000 and if accepted it be rented to a member of the staff at 10% of his weekly wage. In April it was reported that the house and section had been purchased for $23,000 with possession from 16th April 1981.

Following a suggestion the Directors decided to investigate the possibility of patrons when leaving the course instead of being issued with a pass out check have a stamp placed on the back of their hands which would be visible under an ultra violet lamp. A decision was made to obtain prices for the necessary equipment and later it was decided that four infra red lamps at a total cost of $219.20 be purchased. In February 1984 the lamps were received and were to be introduced at the Canterbury Park Trotting Club’s meeting on the 10th February on condition that the scheme was fully operable.

In March 1983 the three Clubs agreed to offer the grassed area behind the Main Totalisator to Members for $50 per annum wit first preference going to those Members of the three Clubs who have prepaid their subscriptions and the second preference to those who are Members of the three Clubs. It was a recommendation that all funds raised by selling this area be transferred to Addington Raceway. The Directors raised the question of better utilization of the area of land to the west of the motorway and suggested that with the marketing expertise of some members of the Committees and the Stewards ideas could be forthcoming which would be a major revenue earner for the Company.

In August 1983 Shipley’s Video Systems Ltd offered $1,000 to the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club and $500 each to the Canterbury Park and New Brighton Trotting Clubs for a period of five years, in return for a contract between their Company and Addington Raceway Ltd giving them the sole rights to operate all sound and video systems at all race meetings and trials held at the Raceway. The Directors decided that this was not acceptable and the three Clubs Sponsorship sub committees were advised that not under any circumstances should they accept sponsorship from Shipley’s Video Systems Ltd under such terms.

In December 1983 verbal advice was received from the NZ Racing Authority that it would advance the Company $500,000 which would reduce the amount owing from the Amenities Account, the money to be used in meeting the next two mortgage repayments to the North Canterbury Hospital Board and to meet the cost of improving the drainage in the stable area.

The Directors decided at this time to investigate the purchase of a tower at a cost of $4,000 to be used for the televising of the back straight together with the additional cost of relocation, regalvanising and re-erection on the course. In February 1984 the purchase of the tower from the Ashburton Trotting Club for $4,000 was confirmed by them which included its delivery but not the cost of placing it in position. In August 1984 two prices were received for the erection of the camera tower covering the back straight. The successful tenderer was John Jones Steel Ltd at $14,658.

In December 1983 a quotation from Farrier Waimak for the resealing of the Float Park at $8,000 was accepted.

In May 1984 the Committee approved the action of the Directors in continuing to negotiate for the purchase of the properties at No’s 3 & 5 Lindores Street and approved the expenditure for their purchase. It was then decided by the Directors that No.1 Lindores Street was of little value as a parking site and that No’s 3 & 5 could be purchased for between $39 and $40,000 each. It was agreed that the Secretary investigate the possibility of securing a loan of $50,000 and if forthcoming the Emergency Committees of the three Clubs be asked to approve the purchase of the two properties. In the following month Mr Cunningham reported to the Directors that he had ceased negotiations for the purchase of the two properties in Lindores Street as all the Clubs were not agreeable to the transaction.

In June 1984, following the representation from the Drainage Board on the overloading of the sewerage system on race days it was recommended that the Company’s Consultant Engineer investigate the problem. In the following month Mr Ford of Powell Fenwick Partnerships suggested that a holding tank be installed to overcome the overloading of the drainage system and it was decided that the Secretary should liaise with Powell Fenwick with this in mind. In December the Drainage Board advised that they required the Company’s confirmation of its intention to proceed with the upgrading of the sewer system at an estimated cost of $40,000 part of which the Drainage Board had intimated it would pay. The Secretary was instructed to discuss the degree of liability of the Drainage Board with the Engineers and report back to the Company’s Solicitors.

In October complaints were received from the NZ Standardbred Breeders Association regarding the hardness of the track and inquiring whether resurfacing was being considered by the Directorate. The Association was advised that the track was prepared for Race Meetings and not Trial Meetings and that it was the opinion of the Directors that the Addington Track still rates among the best in the Southern Hemisphere.

In March 1986 the Directors were asked to investigate the possibility of conducting a computer survey to establish the optimum track size and shape to improve the quality of one mile racing. After investigation it was agreed there be no alteration to the track.


Credit: NZMTC: Historical Notes compiled by D C Parker

BUILDINGS & FACILITIES

The Addington Racecourse being well established, the Committee was mindful of the need to improve the facilities. In January 1901 in was decided to erect a Stewards Stand at a cost of £470.

Alterations were carried out later to the Main Stand and the inconvenience of having to climb up many steps to the Stand was obviated when 15 feet was added to the front of the building. The lawn immediately in front of the stand was banked so that from this terrace to the front of the building was only a few feet. An additional 10 feet added to the East end greatly increased accommodation, 35 feet at the East end being partitioned off as a Members enclosure. The additional space enabled the luncheon room to be extended to 90 feet and a ladies room provided at the West end. Fifty feet to the east of the Main Stand the Stewards Stand was erected providing accommodation for the Press as well as the Stewards. The lower portion of the building was used as a Weighing-In Room and a Drivers Changing Room with the Stewards area, the Press Room and the Secretary’s Offices being located upstairs. At the front of the upper storey a balcony provided the Stewards and the Press with an excellent view of the races.

In 1903 Messrs Clarkson and Ballantyne, Architects, were instructed to draw up plans for a Peoples Stand in the outside enclosure and in September of that year Mr W Jacques’ tender of £944 was accepted. The funds for this stand were derived from the Totalisator fractions which were earmarked for the purpose. A new Judges Box was erected nearer the Stewards Stand, and its re-siting allowed those in the Stewards and Press Stands a better view of the finish. Underneath the new Peoples Stand were a large restaurant and other facilities. Between the Peoples and the Stewards Stand a small structure was erected for the use of Trainers and Jockeys so they could view the races and be close to their dressing room. A results board was provided on the inside of the track behind the Winning Post.

In 1906 it was decided that a new Totalisator House should be built and in August 1907 the tender of Mr Rowe amounting to £593 was accepted. The new Totalisator House was of an entirely new design and housed W H McDougall’s patent totalisator, which showed one grand total with investments being recorded as soon as made. Twelve receiving windows and nine payout compartments were provided. Above the grand total was placed a patent clock, the invention of Mr A I Rattray, which played an important part in the working of the machine. A stationary hand pointed to the advertised time of starting and an ordinary hour hand indicated the hour of the day and on its coming to the stationary hand a bell rang and the totalisator was closed immediately. This ensured that no investments were made after the advertised starting time irrespective of the time at which the race actually commenced.

In April 1908 tenders were accepted for extensions to the Stewards Stand and the Tea Rooms and in October Patrol Boxes were erected around the track.

With the prospect of major developments being planned in the latter part of 1909 a number of local builders objected to Luttrell Brothers being appointed Architects as they were also in the building trade. Luttrell’s proposals were proceeded with, with the exception of the Public Stand as it was decided that a competition be held for a suitable design. As none of the competition designs were acceptable, Messrs Luttrell Brothers were appointed Architects for the Stand which was to be of one storey and not to exceed £6,500. Luttrells laid down their terms for carrying out the Club’s work and their plans for the stand were accepted and tenders called. The tenders received were unacceptable and Messrs Luttrell Brothers were instructed to erect the stand, with seating, using day labour at a cost not to exceed £8,100. The stand built to the west of the Stewards Stand was an imposing and ornamental structure planned to be the largest and best appointed stand in New Zealand. It was 240 feet in length with seating for 2,500; a portion of the seating was reserved for Members who had access by a stairway at the rear. The public section of the stand had several flights of steps with passages leading from the lawn which was sloped up gradually to meet the stand. Dining room, bar and other facilities were included in the structure. The existing public stand serving the inside patrons was resited in the outside enclosure.

The foundation stone of the new grandstand was laid by the Club’s President, the Hon. Charles Louisson, on 10th February 1910. In May of that year, as the new grandstand was rapidly approaching completion the old stand was lifted off its foundations in preparation for its removal to the outside enclosure. The new stand was completed in September and as a result of the improvements the old tea rooms became surplus and were sold to the New Brighton Trotting Club and moved to its course.

Articles appearing in the NEW ZEALAND REFEREE in October and November 1910 described in detail the work that was being carried out at Addington.

“The new grandstand costing £9,000 will accommodate in comfort 2,500 people and as the stands in outside enclosure will seat 2,250, there will now be seating for 4,750. The new stand is quite the finest in New Zealand and is a handsome structure of stucco with plate glass windows at the ends and from every position a capital view of the whole track can be obtained. The ceiling is of wunderlich metal and as this and all the interior walls have been painted white the result is an effective airiness, the like of which is seldom found in similar buildings.

“The ground floor of the stand is devoted to a well appointed kitchen and servery, the public luncheon room 100 feet by 52 feet and a large public bar. On the next floor are the Members Rooms to which access is gained from the rear of the stand by a double flight of steps leading to a handsome portico which with its swing doors and leadlights would not be out of place in any public building. There is a private bar for the use of the Members on this floor access being gained by a separate staircase from outside the building. An essential improvement, a good water supply, was installed at a cost of £2,000 and an artesian well supplied a tank holding 20,000 gallons some seventy feet above the ground. New Cloak rooms and lavatories of approved design were built and all buildings connected with the main sewer. This work entailed the laying of nearly half a mile of piping. In many other directions changes were made all with a view to improving the general appearance of the Club’s property. At the entrance to the grandstand enclosure iron railings and gates of effective design were substituted for the former wooden barriers while in front of the grandstand the picket fence was replaced with iron railings.

”Further improvements planned include a new tea pavilion and a new totalisator house in the paddock and to enable that to be done the existing totalisator house was removed to the outside enclosure. The whole work has been carried out under the supervision of the Architects, Messrs S & A Luttrell, and as it has been done by day labour it can be understood that for some 12 months the Club has had to find the money for a large weekly wages bill. The flowerbeds and lawns were designed round the ornamental lake which forms a striking feature of the Club’s property.

“The Club and its architects and builders, Messrs Luttrell Brothers are to be most heartily congratulated on the improvements carried out”.

Following the completion of the Public Stand Luttrells offered to leave their commission for one or two years at 6%. This was accepted by the Club subject to having the right to repay the amount at any time.

Improvements continued to be carried out on the course and in the following year, 1911, new totalisator facilities, horse boxes and an up-to-date ladies cloak room were provided. Following authorization in August 1912 for the Architect to proceed with plans for new tea rooms there was some delay as no tenders were received. The construction was eventually carried out using day labour under the supervision of Luttrell Brothers.

In September 1913 the Club’s Executive approved of extension to and the upgrading of the Outside Public Stand.

In March 1914 the tea rooms verandah was enclosed and in July of that year following a decision to carry out further improvements tenders were called for a new Stewards and Members Stand to be designed by Luttrell’s at an estimated cost of £7,360. Tenders were called for the erection of the new Stewards and Members Stand with the work to be commenced at the conclusion of the August Meeting 1914. The top storey of the building was to be reserved for Members and provide accommodation for between 700 and 800. On the floor below were to be rooms for the President, Stewards and other Officers with a balcony running round the front and sides of the building. Provision was also to be made at this level for an area for Trainers, Riders and Drivers to view the racing. On the Ground Floor the Secretary’s Office, the Public Office, a Meeting Room, a Weighing Room and Dressing Rooms with hot and cold showers were included in the plan. It was anticipated that the Stand would be completed in time for the November Meeting, but because of the outbreak of the 1914-18 war the Committee decided to postpone the project. This action did not find favour with Members and some fifty presented a petition asking the Committee to reconsider its decision and proceed with the building. A Special General Meeting was held at which it was resolved that either one of two plans submitted by the Architects and estimated to cost £7,350 or £5,400 should be proceeded with. In October 1914 Luttrells were instructed to proceed immediately after the November Meeting with the erection of the stand at an estimated cost of £7,350. At the conclusion of the Meeting a gang of men demolished the old official stand in readiness for the building of the new Members and Stewards Stand. The progress on the Stand was such that it was available for use at the Meeting in February 1915 and was completed almost entirely prior to the Easter Meeting. The only criticism received was that the roof was galvanized iron and not in keeping with the tiled roofs of the other buildings. To help finance the building of the Stand Luttrell Brothers offered to loan £5,000 to the Club, their offer was accepted and five £1,000 debentures issued to them, but the Club reserved the right to repay the whole or part of the loan upon three months notice. The last debenture was repaid in November 1916.

A report published in the NZ REFEREE of the 4th of August, 1915 summarised the work that had been carried out during the year.

“The almost completed Stewards Stand with its concrete staircase and landings at the rear has made the top storey available for seating 900 in the Members section. This new facility would relieve the pressure on the Main Grandstand which would be available to the general public with the exception of a small area reserved for elderly members. The greater part of the saddling paddock had been given to the public in the outside enclosure and a portion converted into a motor reserve for Members with stalls to accommodate sixty two cars. The additional land in the south west corner of the property enabled a very spacious saddling paddock to be laid out with 114 boxes, 47 of which were closed and ample room given in the saddling paddock for owners and trainers as well as the general public. With the extension of the outside enclosure the totalisator house there will be devoted solely to the use of outside patrons, and the inside totalisator has been enlarged to double its former size. The building has been bought up to date in every respect with twenty four selling windows and adequate provision for all emergencies. The Clubs grounds generally which extend over seventy six acres are in great order and the August Meeting promises to be a brilliant success”.

The main item of historical interest which occurred during 1916 was the destruction of the new Stewards and Members Stand by fire on Cup Day. (Refer Chapter 13) Following the fire, plans and specifications were prepared by the Club’s Architects and lodged with the Insurance Companies concerned, but a considerable delay was experienced in their meeting the claim and this greatly inconvenienced the Club and its patrons. Certain temporary alterations were carried out so that the ground floor of the building could be used on race days. In February 1917 tenders for re-building were called but as no tenders were received the Committee instructed Luttrell Brothers to re-instate the stand with a tile roof at a cost not to exceed £7,500. By June work on the re-building was well under way and it was anticipated it would be finished in time for the August Meeting.

In 1919 the ends of the Members Stand were glassed in and in September 1923 extensions to the Members Stand accommodation were undertaken at a cost of £3,048.

In August 1928 the tender of Hammett & Sons for the building of a new Outside Stand to replace the one destroyed by fire in September 1926 was accepted.

In May 1939 an outside ladies cloakroom was erected adjacent to the Showgrounds fence, and in June of that year Mr A H Manson was appointed Architect to the Club.

A sub-committee investigated the building of a new outside stand linking with the Members Stand, and Canterbury Park signified its willingness to contribute £750 towards the cost. In July 1939 tenders were called with the price not to exceed £21,000. In June 1940 the Government was asked for consent to proceed with the new outside stand or a modified scheme, at the same time being advised that the Club intended to loan a substantial sum (£10,000) for the period of the War and six months after, interest free. The building of the proposed stand was not proceeded with.

In April 1943 the Architect was instructed to obtain an estimate for the construction of a counting house to be built in concrete. At the same time a report was asked for from J Sutherland & Son on the condition of the water tank. Acting on their report major reconstruction of the tank was undertaken at a final cost of £2,003 which included a larger tank with a capacity of 26,000 gallons. In June a contract was let to B Moore &Sons Ltd for £849 for the building of the counting house which was sited between the Members car park and the entrance to the inside enclosure.

The War Asset Realisation Board offered to sell their temporary buildings on the course, including the conveniences at the back of the Main Stand, for £119.17.0d, the salvage value of the buildings. The Clubs decided to accept the offer.

In June 1946 the position of the Judges Box was changed from the Members Stand level to the Stewards Stand level to allow the photo finish equipment to be sited at the Members Stand level directly above the Judges Box.

In August 1947 two horse stalls were converted into a horse clinic and in the following month the installation of a stand-by plant for the totalisator was agreed to.

In April 1948 following the granting of a building permit, work commenced on a new Main Entrance, and the area in the vicinity was suitably landscaped. The new entrance with twelve new turnstiles costing £40 each was completed and ready for the August Meeting.

The Architect Mr Manson submitted plans in January 1949 for extensions to the Tea Kiosk to provide Ladies toilet facilities, estimated to cost £4,000. In May of that year a tender was let to B Moore & Sons for the extensions, at a cost of £390 above the estimate.

In January 1951 plans were approved for a new Course Superintendent’s house, and in April that year the tender of B Moore & Sons of £5,095 was accepted.

In October 1952 the Architect submitted plans for a Cocktail Bar to be situated in the vacant area in the vacant area behind the Members Stand seating. This would become the fourth floor level. As the Bar was not considered to be a viable proposition it was decided instead to convert the northern wing of the Tea Kiosk into the Members Lounge Bar and Addington Trotting Course Ltd proceeded with this amenity which was available for the 1954 New Year Meeting.

In June 1953 the Company advised the Club that a contract had been let to Wormald Bros. for the installation of a fire prevention sprinkler system in the Stewards and Members Stand, and the Main Totalisator.

A joint meeting of the Committees of the two Clubs was held in March 1954 to consider and discuss with the Architect plans for the replacement of the outside stand burnt down in November 1953. In the following September various schemes were considered which included the return of two enclosures. In March 1956 a deputation to wait on the building controller was appointed, and in June the Directors advised the Clubs that a permit for a new Stand amounting to £170,000 had been approved in principal provided the work did not commence before June 1958. The Architect was instructed to prepare sketch plans for a Stand not to exceed £150,000. Because of the problems arising with the Architect, Mr A H Manson the replacement of the outside Public Stand was abandoned, and a new project combining a Stand for Members and Public with a three storied Members Amenities block was planned by the new Architect Mr C C Lamb. As his plan seemed to be a practical one, it was decided not to reinstate the outside enclosure which had not been used since the 1953 fire. With alterations to the positioning of some Totalisator facilities, including the housing of the doubles in the annex, one enclosure was adopted with an admission charge of five shillings.

For additional information on the problems associated with Mr A H Manson refer to Fires and their Prevention.

The new Stand sub-committee recommended that the Members and Public Stand being planned should cater for a maximum membership of one thousand, but that the Club should retain a limit of 850. On referring to Appendix 8 it will be seen that the Committees did not adhere to the sub-committee’s recommendation.

In December 1957 the Architect advised that the new Stand could not be completed in time for the 1960 Inter-Dominion Championships allocated to the Club. An approach to the Inter-Dominion Council resulted in the New South Wales Trotting Club holding the Championship in 1960 and this Club in February 1961.

The Addington Trotting Course Ltd had £87,000 available towards the cost of the new Stand and the balance of £66,140 was found by the two Clubs on a share-holding basis. The NZMTC contribution being £45,790. In September 1959 on the recommendation of the Architect, additional wiring and distribution boards were included in the plan as a provision for the possible introduction of night trotting.

In December 1961 a report was called for from Photo Finishes Ltd on the re-siting of the mirror at the finishing line with the object of eliminating the shadow problem, and during the winter of 1962 the mirror was re-positioned further back from the inside running rail, overcoming the problem in the main.

Information is contained in Chapter 13, on the fire which destroyed the Main inside Public Stand fire on Show Day 1961, including details of the costing of its replacement.

On the 21st of December 1961 the inaugural meeting of the new Public Stand sub-committee was held and comprised – Messrs J K Davidson, W M Ollivier, R W Saunders and C S Thomas (NZMTC) and H T Fuller, V J McKibbin, C S Peate and L S Smart (CPTC)

Following a visit to the North Island by Mr J K Davidson, President of the NZMTC and Mr L S Smart, President of the CPTC and the Secretary, the new Stand sub-committee met in early 1962 to consider the estimate by the Architect that a stand with seating for 4,000 patrons would cost £163,620. After receiving information regarding the new Stand built at Riccarton, it was thought the cost could increase to £182,476. A Committeeman of the Club expressed the opinion that the basis of the proposed Stand was wrong and that a mezzanine floor was not required as it would add considerably to the cost. Any money saved he said could provide for the seating, and the only section of the mezzanine floor needed would be at the East end for an Owners and Trainers Bar. He also held the view that there should be no Public Lavatory Blocks in the Stand, and that the Public Bar should be at the East end with only one access way through the Stand. At a meeting on the 13th of March 1962 a Club representative suggested that the Stand should be purely functional with seating for as many as possible and provide reasonable although not elaborate amenities. He pointed out that Stands at Lancaster Park seating 3,000 had cost £20 per seat, whereas preliminary estimates based on the sketch plans submitted by the Architect costed at £50 per seat. The sub-committee recommended that facilities included in the Stand should be a Public Bar, Totalisator windows and provision for Catering and that no less than two access ways should be provided from the Stand to the Mezzanine Floor, but toilet facilities be provided only for staff. At a combined meeting of the Committees of the two Clubs on 16 May 1962 the Quantity Surveyor reported that the estimated cost of the Stand would be £180,900 of which £118,500 would be available from the Insurance Claim leaving the Clubs to find £62,400.

The plans for the new Stand were approved in principal and the Architect was instructed to prepare final plans and call for tenders to carry out the project in two stages. Stage One for the Stand proper including walls, roofing, and seating and Stage Two for the amenities. The Architect pointed out that the Quantity Surveyors price was based on the contract being done by one firm, in a single operation. The Chairman of Addington Raceway, Mr J K Davidson said that together with Mr Smart and the Secretary he had had discussions with the Architect on the plans and final drawings and the Architect had expressed some doubt as to the design of the Totalisator area on the Mezzanine Floor which because of its shallowness would not allow the Totalisator to be operated to the best advantage. He suggested that the Mezzanine Floor be extended on stilts out to the line of the bottom of the stairways and estimated that an additional £5,000 would be required. The Chairman said that he and Mr Smart had agreed to the enlargement of the Mezzanine Floor and the decision was ratified by the full Committee.

In October it was agreed that as the new Stand would be built over the horse access from the stalls to the track new horse stalls should be built at an approximate cost of £75 per stall in preference to removing the existing stalls and re-siting them adjacent to Wrights Road.

The Club Treasurer Mr C S Thomas, who had been overseas during the planning discussions for the new Stand, tendered his resignation in December 1962 as a member of the new Stand sub-committee as he was not in agreement with the plan or the type of construction proposed and the consequent cost involved.

Five tenders were received for the construction of the Stand, Fletcher Construction Co. being the lowest at £216,578. The highest tender was £241,351. Fletcher Construction Co. was advised that theirs was the lowest tender but too high as far as the Club was concerned. Mr Lamb and his assistants were asked to confer with Fletchers with a view to finding some way of reducing the cost.

At a meeting of the new Stand sub-committee various suggestions were put forward for the deletion of certain items with a view to a reduction in the overall cost. At a special meeting of the combined Committees the Architect reported that the tender of Fletcher Construction Co. Ltd had been finalized at £198,379.9.6d and the two Committees agreed that a figure up to £200,000 be acceptable. It was left to the sub-committee to negotiate the contract. It was decided that the first part of the contract for the foundations be proceeded with immediately and the Contractors were authorized to place a shed on site after they signed the Contract providing it was on course by 10.30am on Cup Day 6th November 1962 just under one year after the fire took place. The Contractors advised that the lump sum of £21,426 was the fixed price for the excavations, foundations and main floor slab, and the basic rates in the schedule were the rates on which the remainder of the work would be priced.

The Committee of the Club agreed to a request from Addington Trotting Course Ltd that they negotiate a loan from the Commercial Union to provide the extra funds required to meet the total cost of the Stand, Night Trotting and consequent modifications to the horse stalls and other items, and that the request date from the 1st November 1962.

In January 1963 it was reported that 104 horse stalls could be built back to back using existing doors at a cost of approximately £8,000. The lowest tenderer J J Construction Co. Ltd quoted £11,787 for 123 slightly larger stalls in single rows. In spite of the fact that the Clubs were committed to a considerable capital expenditure, the tender of J J Construction Co. Ltd was accepted.

In April 1963 the Secretary submitted a sketch plan he had prepared showing a possible alteration to the use of the three large rooms in the Stewards Stand. This was referred to the Architect for his recommendations and an estimate of the cost involved. Following the Architect’s report he was asked to obtain prices so the work could be proceeded with, and in November it was reported that the re-arrangement of the three large rooms was completed, and involved the transferring of the Ladies Room to the Luncheon Room, the Luncheon Room to the Cash Bar and the Cash Bar to the Ladies Room.

In April 1964, a survey prepared by Felt & Textiles Ltd on the effect carpeting of large areas had on noise reduction was considered and a suggestion put forward that the noise level in the Members Club room would be reduced by the laying of carpet. This was held over for further consideration, but in September 1965 the Addington Trotting Course Ltd accepted the NZMTC’s offer of an interest free loan for the carpeting of the Members Club floor.

In December 1964 Mr D Spence, a Life Member elected in 1959 after fifty years membership, who owned the Metro Picture Theatre in Sydenham which was closing down, offered to donate as many of the theatre seats as would be required for the Stewards Stand. At the Addington Trotting Course Ltd Annual Meeting, the Chairman stated that Mr Spence had presented one hundred seats, which he had had renovated, to Addington Raceway as an appreciation of he hospitality extended to him by the three Clubs. The seats were positioned in the Stewards Stand at the start of the 1965-66 season.

In April 1965 a report was received on the final costing of the Public Stand, Horse Stalls and lighting for Night Trotting. The contract price for the new Stand was £198,275 with sundry expenses £3,131, Architects Fees £13,559, Sundry Fees and Clerk of Works £3,773, a total of £218,738 less Insurance recovered, £118,500. The Nett cost to the Clubs being £100,238. The cost of lighting the track and facilities was National Electric £72,072, C E Fenwick, Consultant £214, extra floodlights £188, a total of £72,474. The cost of the new horse stalls was £13,345. The total cost of the three projects amounted to £186,057. At this time the Members Restaurant and the Ladies Powder Room were carpeted.

In July 1966 it was suggested that the Architect should prepare a master ground plan which would include the filling in of the gap between the Stands in two stages. Stage one to be between the Public Stand and the existing Members ad Stewards Stand and stage two to be between the Public Stand and a new Members Stand to replace the existing one, with a view to establishing sitelines and locations for the eventual joining up of the two concrete buildings. A year late Mr Lamb presented a sketch plan based on linking the Public Stand with a new Stewards and Members Stand. Because of existing sitelines it would not be practical to extend the Public Stand any further east, as it was sited as far east and as close to the track as possible, without seriously interfering with viewing from the existing Stewards and Members Stand.

During 1968 and 1969 improvements were carried out including upgrading the deep fry booth, at a cost of £1,200, and providing twenty two additional horse stalls, at £7,800.

The re-designing of the lay-out of the top floor of the Members Amenities was put in hand and in September 1969 Addington Raceway suggested that extensions be carried out to the Members Amenities Block by building on the vacant area between the rear of the Stand the lift shaft giving an extra 900 square feet on each of the three levels. The Architects were asked to obtain a realistic costing for this project and in April 1970 four tenders were received, the lowest being that of Capon Construction Ltd. at $40,240. Other charges including fees brought the total cost to $78,471, which included approximately $7,500 for upgrading existing kitchen, and Members Amenities Block to comply with Waimairi County Council’s hygiene regulations.

In February 1970, it was decided that an open Stand in permanent material should be built on Smarts mound, to replace the wooden one which had been dismantled, and the NZMTC agreed to advance the monies required byway of an interest-free loan. In August 1971 it was reported that the Open concrete Stand on Smarts mound which would accommodate 1,000 standing had been completed at a cost of $12,481.

In February 1970 the Waimairi County Council advised that many of the areas used in the preparation or sale of food and beverages, did not comply with hygiene regulations. The estimated cost of complying with the Council’s requirements was $12,600, after concessions had been granted by the Health Inspector. The Architect outlined the requirements of the Waimairi County Council, which included the lining of the ceiling in the Tea Kiosk, and the consequent provision of additional sprinkler heads.

When the Members Stand and Amenities Block was built, certain items were excluded on the grounds of expense, and the Health Inspector had not insisted then on any additional facilities. A number of items previously excluded were now required under the hygiene regulations. In January 1972 the Architects had discussions with the Waimairi County Council’s Health Inspector, and as a result the cost of improving the washing facilities not asked for when the Public Stand was planned amounted to $4,750. Approximately $8,000 was spent in the Tea Kiosk to bring it up to the required standard. With Fees the overall cost of complying with the health requirements was $13,900.

In August 1971 it was reported that the extension to the Members amenities, gave additional accommodation on each floor and provide further bar space on the two top floors. The space on the Ground Floor previously occupied by the Milk Bar, Police and Staff rooms together with the Ground Floor extension became the kitchen and wash up area for the Members amenities. The re-siting of the kitchen, made it possible to convert the old kitchen area into a Members cafeteria, thus returning the cafeteria to its original size. The cost of the extensions to the Members Stand amenities was $76,364. As part of the improvement programme in the Members amenities the top floor bar was carpeted at a cost of $2,153.

In May 1973 the Club’s Architects Colin Lamb & Stewart advised that due to Mr Lamb’s ill health, they were unable to proceed with the investigations and sketch plans for a new Stewards and Members Stand, but were prepared to act in an advisory capacity. Messrs Austin & Warren, who were being considered as Architects for the project, waited on the Directors to discuss various aspects of it and agreed to inspect with the Secretary some of the latest North Island Stands. In October their appointment as Architects to Addington Raceway Ltd. was ratified by the Directors. Colin Lamb & Stewart were appointed Consulting Architects and Valuers for insurance purposes. The development of the new Stewards and Members Stand project was held up as the Committees were of the opinion that firstly improvements should be carried out to the Public Stand.

The proposed plans for the alterations to the Public stand were agreed to in principle, and the Architects were asked to proceed with working drawings. The Committee expressed concern that the Directors had decided that the upgrading of the Public amenities be delayed until the extensions at the rear of the Public Stand were let for tender. The Committee requested that the upgrading of the facilities in the Public Stand be accorded urgency, and Austin & Warren advised that the working drawings and specifications for the upgrading of the Public Stand amenities in conjunction with the extensions to the lavatories would be available in April 1974.

In October 1973 the re-siting of the Derby Lodge Complex in the Halls Road area, was investigated by Mr B B Woods and the Secretary, and their suggestions were submitted to the Committees of the three Clubs and approved. The Architects were asked to bring down a report on the possibility of building the Stable Complex in that area. They reported on the new Complex which would be completed in three stages. Stage One was the provision of twenty five stables with facilities and a Blacksmith’s shop. Stage Two was the provision of a Trackman’s flat, above a tractor and implement shed and Stage Three was to build barn type stables for visiting horses. The estimated cost was $100,000.

In April 1974 a meeting was held with the Secretary of the NZ Racing Authority, Mr L J Downey, the Authority’s Consultant Architect, Mr R Roberts, the Company’s Architects and the Directors. The meeting inspected the proposed improvements to the Public Stand which included a lavatory block, covering of the entrance ways and alterations to the Ladies & Escorts Bar. The meeting also inspected certain Stewards Stand facilities and the site of the proposed new Derby Lodge Complex. Mr Downey said that the Racing Authority engaged Mr Roberts as a Consultant Architect to look at Club’s planning of projects in relation to existing facilities and long range planning. He said that after the line of communications had been established, there was no reason why Mr Roberts and the Company’s Architects could not deal directly with each other, although Mr Roberts would report to the Racing Authority for their consideration and approval. Mr Downey stated that before any major projects were carried out the Authority would require a site plan of the proposed overall development of Addington Raceway. As a result of this meeting the Architects were asked to prepare sketch plans for upgrading the amenities in the Public Stand with particular reference to the re-siting of the Main Bar and the Ladies & Escorts Bar and alterations to the drainage to allow for any internal changes. In May the Racing Authority advised that approval had been given for the re-imbursement from the Amenities Fund of the cost of the additions to the Public Stand, and on 30th May the Architects advised that tenders would close in mid-June. In July they advised that the successful tenderers Paynter & Hamilton would be commencing the Public Stand development on 1st August 1974.

In June 1974 Austin & Warren submitted sketch plans for the new Derby Lodge Complex, and were asked to submit estimated costs of the full project, as well as unit costs. In July the project was held over for further investigation, an in September the scheme for the re-siting of Derby Lodge was approved in principle provided it was eligible for reimbursement under the Annual Minimum Disbursement Scheme.

The NZMTC advised Directors that it was prepared to underwrite $176,000 towards the cost of upgrading the Public amenities. As part of the upgrading a Tank Room was built, and four stainless steel beer tanks installed, together with a Waterflow beer system to provide separate lines from the tanks to each Bar. The cost of the four tanks purchased was $2,400.

In March 1974 following a fuzziness appearing on the photo-finish pictures, which was thought to be due to movement of the stand caused by the patrons enthusiasm at the conclusion of a race, the Architects were asked to instruct their Engineers to carry out whatever was necessary to ensure the safety of the Stewards and Members Stand. Their Structural Engineers, Hardie & Anderson, said that in order to comply with the safety factor, strengthening would be required in the tiered seating area and the roof structure. The seating area and the external stuccoed walls appeared to be the main problems. Strengthening of the existing trusses was paramount and would require a permit from the Waimairi County Council. The work was carried out by Paynter & Hamilton Ltd at a cost of $5,389. In December 1974 additional work was authorized foe the strengthening of the Stand and this was carried out by Paynter & Hamilton at a further cost of $7,800.

In January 1975 the Architects reported that delays had occurred in obtaining approval for their plans for improvements to the Public Stand as the Racing Authority’s Architect required one or two amendments to the scheme one of which was the circulation pattern which in his opinion was unsatisfactory. Mr Roberts required the Stand to be divided into fifty foot areas alternating eating, drinking and tote facilities and held the view that the top floor should be enlarged and re-designed before any action was taken on improvements to the Ground Floor. The Architects advised that if Stage One was completed and Stage Two proceeded with then the cost would be increased by $2,000. The Racing Authority was written to asking if approval of Stage Two could be granted to facilitate the completion of Stage One. The Authority advised they could not agree to the commencement of Stage One until they received the final report from their Consultant Architect. In February Mr Hartley, Chairman of Directors of Addington Raceway Ltd, reported that with the Company’s Architects he had visited Mr Roberts at his Palmerston North office and there was a frank discussion regarding the delay in permission being granted to proceed with Stage Two. Mr Roberts agreed to a concession that approval would be given to Stage Two of the Company’s plan, with the amendments required by the Authority but Stage Three must contain the proposals he required for further upgrading the Stand, including the provision of an additional stairway, alterations to the cafeteria on the Mezzanine Floor, and the division of the existing cafeteria into smaller eating and betting areas. The amendments required for inclusion in Stage Two were the removal of three selling windows from the Canterbury Park Bar, the addition of 9 Totalisator windows in the Metropolitan Inn and the provision of a food Kiosk on the Mezzanine Floor. The Directors approved the revised plans for Stage Two. The Racing Authority was notified that the Company wished to proceed immediately with the whole of Stage Two, including the extension to the Metropolitan Inn, as suggested by Mr Roberts, and giving an undertaking that Stage Three would proceed within twelve to eighteen months. In the following month the Authority advised that Stage Two had been approved.

In April 1975 the suggestion regarding the replacing of the Members and Stewards Stand was again raised by the Club, and it was referred to the Treasurers of the three Clubs for a joint investigation as to the means of financing the Stand. The matter was held over until July when three representatives from each Club formed a sub-committee to look into ways and means of financing the project. The Club’s representatives were Messrs G W Blaxall, D E Dalzell and M L Taylor with Mr E T McDermott Ex Officio.

Also in April 1975 further plans were submitted by the Architects for the development of the Public Stand area to include additional Bars and a Steak Bar in the New Brighton Room. The Authority did not favour work being carried out on a cost plus basis, so a Quantity Surveyor was engaged to check the cost and alterations to the original plan were referred to Mr Roberts. The Quantity Surveyors, Shipston, Davies & Partners prepared a revised estimate of costs, and advised that the ceiling price was $180,000 plus $10,000 Contingency sum to cover any increased costs. The ceiling price was for a high quality finish, but should the Stand be as originally finished the ceiling price would be $167,500 plus $10,000 for Contingencies. The Architects reported that there would be added costs for Trades and Services and submitted a total estimate, including professional fees, of $304,059.

In June 1975 Mr H M S Dawson, a Director of Addington Raceway, reported that he had had discussions with Austin & Warren, who would take over the valuations for Insurance purposes, and Colin Lamb & Stewart supplied their plans. Discussions were held with Mr R A Stewart on the question of finalizing fees due to Colin Lamb & Stewart and was agreeable, due to Mr Lamb’s ill health, to Messrs Austin & Warren being appointed the Company’s Architects.

At an informal meeting in December 1975 Mr Warren read a letter written two and a half years earlier regarding the building of the new Stewards and Members Block which had been shelved in view of the other commitments at the Raceway and the majority of the points raised then were still relevant. After a general discussion on the basic requirements including the Administration Block being in the building, it was agreed that no further points could be considered until it was known whether the Stand would be a Stadium or a multi-storey one. In March 1976 the Architects submitted a model showing the existing Stand complex and ideas for replacing the existing Stewards and Members Stand. The matter was further considered at a meeting in March, when five schemes were submitted. After a general discussion they were asked to modify two of the schemes and give an indication of any additional costs.

Updated a year later they reported that the estimated cost of a new Stand was $3.8 million and the Clubs were asked to consider the project and advise the Directors of their views as anything less than that proposed was not worth proceeding with. The Clubs were also asked to consider what other priorities had to be met.

In August 1977 the Committee decided that a new totalisator should take priority over the building of a new Stewards and Members Stand, and this decision was agreed to by the other two Clubs.

Derby Lodge was still under discussion, and in October 1975 the Architects were instructed to prepare a plan and estimate for a new Farriers Shop, as part of the Derby Lodge development. February 1976 saw then obtaining limited Tenders and in July Paynter & Hamilton’s quote of $24,978 was accepted, subject to the NZ Racing Authority’s approval. In August the Authority gave permission for the Farriers Workshop to be proceeded with under the Annual Minimum Disbursement Scheme and advised their Architect required more information concerning the balance of the project.

In March 1977 the Racing Authority advised that the Derby Lodge proposal was approved in principle, and in May the Authority advised that their Architect had been instructed that the long term development of Addington would be carried out by the Company’s Architects, and that he should only act in a Consultant capacity. In view of this decision the Architects proceeded with the working drawings for three stable units, but in August the Company decided they were not prepared to accept the Tenders submitted and that the project must be modified. Revised drawings submitted were still considered to be too costly. It was felt that there was a possibility that twenty two stalls with yards could be provided in the horse stall area, instead of Derby Lodge, but that the Trackman’s House should still be part of the new complex. In October 1977 the Architects advised that F & J Morris Ltd had tendered $18,850 for the construction of the Trackman’s House, and they were asked to negotiate with the builders for the provision of a tractor shed as the base of the house. The final quotation for the elevated house was $28,800 and an application was made to the Racing Authority for a subsidy under the Annual Minimum Disbursement Scheme. The Trackman’s House and Shed were proceeded with, and in April 1978 it was decided to move the old Derby Lodge bunkhouse to a site adjacent to the ring totalisator. The tenants were given one months notice as from the 1st August 1978 to vacate the old Derby Lodge property which was cleared, leveled and available as a car park in February 1979. The new trackman’s house was completed and his rental was fixed at 10% of his weekly gross wage.

In August 1977 the three automatic turnstiles developed by Automatic Totalisators Ltd and installed by them for demonstration purposes were retained for a period of three months and an exercise on costing carried out. In October, with the installation of seven automatic turnstiles and with the work proceeding on the Southern Motorway, the Gates Sub-committee in co-operation with Addington Raceway Ltd brought down a report on the resiting of the car parks and entrances. It was recommended by the Club to the Directors in December 1978 that they accept Paynter & Hamilton’s quotation of $62,370 for the construction of a new turnstile block situated by the building known as the Counting House. In the following month the Committee was advised that the new turnstile block would be proceeded with and the work carried out by Paynter & Hamilton.

In October 1977 the Architects advised that Paynter & Hamilton’s price for the suggested alterations to the Stewards Cash Bar was $7,877 and with first quality carpet, vinyl flooring and furniture the cost would be in the vicinity of $11,000. The Directors were not prepared to proceed with these alterations unless they were so directed by the Clubs which subsequently approved the work which was proceeded with.

In April 1979 the Architects, Austin and Warren, submitted their account for $6,504 for fees covering all the work undertaken by them including a new Stewards Stand which was not proceeded with as the replacement of the Totalisator was given priority.

As the replacement of tiles on the roof of the Stewards Stand was necessary the Architects recommended that concrete tiles be used on the west end of the roof and any tiles salvaged be used as replacements where necessary. A Quotation for carrying out the work, submitted by Briscoes (NZ) Ltd amounting to $2,456 was accepted. However, in January the Architects said that following experiments it had been decided that the concrete tiles when saturated would be too heavy and recommended that long run corrugated iron be used instead. This was agreed to and Briscoes tender for carrying out this work was accepted.

For many years at Annual Meetings Members repeatedly suggested that an escalator be installed in the Members Stand. Investigations were carried out by Thomas L Jones Ltd who submitted specifications and quotations for its installation at a provisional cost of $75,531. In July 1980 the Directors reported that there was a possibility that two escalators could be purchased at a cost of $50,000 from the Mutual Funds Building. The Architects reported that the estimated cost of installing the escalators could be up to $44,000. It was decided that it was not practical and no action was taken.

In August 1980 Automatic Totalisators Ltd advised they would no longer be operating in New Zealand and the Directors considered that there might be a possibility of purchasing the photofinish equipment and conducting its operation.

In September 1981 a suggestion was received that the Members Dining Room could be upgraded at an approximate cost of $25,000. The Directors stated that they could not see their way clear to proceed with this due to other commitments. The NZMTC Committee then decided that an interest free loan be granted to the Company for five years so that the upgrading of the Members Dining Room could be proceeded with and the repayment of the loan related to each Club’s privilege payment.

In July 1983 the NZRA advised that it was willing to recognize the amount owing on approved projects in total and not in the proportion allotted to the three Clubs. The Committee approved of this suggestion.

In July 1983 the NZMTC Committee was advised that neither the Canterbury Park nor the New Brighton Trotting Clubs had repaid the Met for the renovations carried out to the Members Restaurant.

Following requests at the Clubs Annual Meetings investigations were carried out as to the possibility of glazing the North wall of the Members Club Room but it was reported that because of the construction of the Stand such an alteration was not possible. However, the top floor was a different proposition and the Club requested the Directors to investigate the possibility of glassing in a section of the wall of the bar on the top floor and the Architect was asked to submit a feasibility study and an estimated cost of the work. In March 1984 it was reported that it had reached the stage in planning where tenders could be called for the work. A quotation was received from P McCosh amounting to $3,914 which was accepted.

In October 1982 the Architects were asked to draw up plans for the inclusion of toilet facilities in the Members Restaurant area. In December the following year Austin and Warren estimated that the cost would be between $66,000 and $74,000 and alterations to the first floor toilets between $33,000 and $39,000. They were instructed to obtain the approval of the relevant authorities with the object of having the work carried out. In June 1984 the Architects were asked to update the working drawings and costs for altering the two toilet blocks. In October 1984 plans for the proposed renovations to the Members Stand Foyer were in hand and the Architects were instructed to proceed to the tender stage. In March 1985 the Architects advised that the Waimairi District Council had granted a permit for the provision of additional toilet facilities in the Members Stand subject to certain requirements by the Christchurch Drainage Board being complied with. In July 1985 after some delay David McCosh’s tender of $72,550 for alterations to the ground floor toilets in the Members Stand was accepted.

In April 1984 the Club undertook to underwrite an approved scheme for the sum of $100,000 for the construction of the Drivers Room Complex, the estimated cost of which was in the vicinity of $180,000. As it was envisaged the Canterbury Park Trotting Club would help finance the venture the Committee authorized the Directors to proceed with the work. In View of this decision the Course Superintendent inspected several training complexes in the North Island and reported to the Directors. In May 1984 the sketch plans for the Drivers Room Complex were discussed and the three Clubs advised the Directors of their approval in principle of the Complex and requested the Directors to proceed. Canterbury Park Trotting Club agreed to underwrite the project for $30,000. In June a sub-committee of the Club asked the Architects to revise the plan for the Complex incorporating suggestions put forward by its sub-committee. The Secretary and Course Superintendent’s report on inspections of the Awapuni Complex was discussed and it was suggested that the idea should be discussed with Mr A J Williams, of the Trotting Calendar, with a view to running an article in that publication inviting Trainers and other to put forward ideas. In September 1984 the three Clubs together with the Canterbury Owners and Breeders Association, the Horsemen’s Association and the Stipendiary Stewards were advised that a feasibility study and plans were available for inspection at the Raceway. In December the Directors asked the committee for their comments on the proposed siting and plans for the Drivers Room Complex as doubt as to its practicability had been expressed. Those on the Committee that were particularly interested in the project were asked to peruse the plans and bring down their recommendations.

In February 1985 the Committee was of the opinion that the new Drivers Room Complex should be proceeded with and a sub-committee was formed to investigate the plans and evaluate the Clubs requirements including the entertainment of sponsors and submit their recommendations to the full Committee. In April the Directors were advised that the Club wished the Drivers Room Complex to be proceeded with and the site favoured generally being in the area immediately west of the
Public Stand.

In June 1985 it was stated that as the Directors were investigating plans to join the Public and Members Stands as a replacement for the Stewards Stand the plans for the Drivers Room Complex would be held over.

During this period other works carried out were the provision of a storage shed behind the Showgrounds Totalisator costing $3,550 for the framework with additional costs for optional extras and cladding. David McCosh’s tender of $39,494 for repairs and maintenance to the Tea Kiosk was accepted.

In February 1985 the Directors agreed that they would be prepared to spend up to $2,000 for the installation of a Crèche for the use of children five years and under and that it be operated as a fully licensed crèche.

In August the Directors were asked about the redesigning of the Members Stand with particular reference to partitioning and acoustic tiling and to investigate the installation of a bar in the Ladies Room.

In March 1986 it was reported that the work of providing a bar in the recess behind the existing wall of the Ladies Room was in hand and that it would not interfere with the Clubs forthcoming Meeting.

Discussions were held with the Architect and his Engineer in December 1985 regarding the strengthening of the Stewards Stand and it was agreed that a financial exercise on the possibilities be prepared. At the same time Contractors engaged to replace the first six rows of tiles on the roof of the Stewards Stand recommended a complete replacement of the roof due to its deterioration and quoted $11,000 to complete the work. It was agreed that the contractors Newfield and Mill replace the remaining tiles on the Stewards Stand. In May 1986 Mr D Evans was requested to follow up his verbal advice in writing that the stand had been strengthened with the use of metal ties and the lessening of the weight on the roof had resulted in a lessening of the risk to the Stand.

In February 1986 it was decided that the existing metal folding doors around the Public Stand be replaced with aluminium frames and that the quotation of$45,824 from David McCosh be accepted.

Powell Fenwick were asked to report on the feasibility of providing a permanent structure with drainage and tote facilities for the use of the sponsors at the Showgrounds end of the front straight. In May 1986 a preliminary plan was submitted by the Architect for its construction with the inclusion of a two man totalisator, ladies and mens toilets and catering facilities for up to 260 persons. The estimated cost was in the vicinity of $136,000. An additional cost would be the provision of a marquee when required. It was decided the matter be considered in conjunction with the financial report being prepared by the Chairman and Secretary. The Committee expressed its disappointment over the apparent lack of progress in providing this area.

In June 1985 the Club forwarded to the Directors an updated memorandum on the future of the Raceway covering accommodation for Drivers, sponsors etc and providing Drivers with temporary accommodation in the Tea Kiosk. The long term plan being to demolish the Stewards Stand and join the Public and Members Stands with a new stand. The Directors decided to resurrect the plans which had been drawn up for the joining of the two Stands.



Credit: NZMTC: Historical Notes compiled by D C Parker

LEASEHOLD OR FREEHOLD

The original leasehold of the Twigger Estate property dated from 1st June 1899. The Committee realized that a larger area was needed to develop the trotting grounds to their full potential and that ownership of the property was desirable. Some ten years later in May 1909 a sub-committee was appointed to investigate the possibility of leasing more land from the Charitable Aid Board or purchasing the property, or failing that objective being reached, obtaining a new lease of the original property together with an additional area.

In June of that year the sub-committee was empowered to finalise arrangements with the Charitable Aid Board for the lease of additional land and at the completion of the new lease the Club had the use of just under 54 acres.

In April 1912 further land was leased from the Board and this was used to provide a separate entrance for motor and other vehicular traffic. The Club continued its policy of obtaining land and in June an adjoining section on the frontage nearest Lincoln Road was purchased for £165.

In December 1913 the Charitable Aid Board was asked to lease to the Club the land in the hands of the NZ Loan and Mercantile Agency and in June of the following year a further 12 and a half acres was leased to the Club by the Board bringing the area to 66 and a half acres.

In response to representations the Committee recognizing its responsibilities to the owners and trainers secured the lease of 23 acres immediately to the west of the course and decided to lay down a proper training track in that area and to resite the horse boxes used during training operations. It was proposed that the training track be over half a mile in length and on up-to-date lines. In September it was reported that as lessor of the property on which the training track was being laid had objected to its banking, it had been decided that it would have to be practically level although it was felt that it would not be of great value for fast work.

In January 1915 sections were purchased near the entrance gates from T Fox for £430 and in May 1915 the sections purchased from Mrs Edwards for £850 completed the ownership by the Club of all property Moule Street thus enabling extensive alterations to the entrances to be carried out. Also during that year 3 acres were purchased from Mrs De Rigo for £1,000. This property was at the back of the course adjacent to the main trunk railway.

In July 1917 an offer made by the Secretary on behalf of the Club to purchase the grounds for £200 per acre was not accepted by the Charitable Aid Board. In June 1918 a sub-committee was formed to approach Charitable Aid Board and the Hospital Board in an endeavour to purchase the property but again the approach was not successful. The sub-committee was also authorized to acquire options over other properties if they deemed it necessary and in January 1919 negotiations were entered into for the purchase of Shands and other blocks in Riccarton.

As a result of the decision in 1922 by the Canterbury Park Trotting Club to transfer to and take over Addington it was necessary to obtain the acceptance of the North Canterbury Hospital Board and in November it was reported that the Board had agreed to the lease of the Addington property being in the name of the Canterbury Park Trotting club.

In November 1938 a sub-committee of the NZMTC and Canterbury Park waited on the Hospital Board for an extension of the lease.

In August 1943 it was reported that the Canterbury Park Trotting Club’s lease of the grounds had been extended for a further 20 years from the 1st January 1944.

In October 1945 Messrs A L Matson and C S Thomas interviewed Mr L B Evans, Chairman of the North Canterbury Hospital Board with the object of obtaining the freehold of the Addington property or alternatively of obtaining a long lease. Mr Evans advised that selling the Club the freehold was not likely but that he supported an application for a long lease. At a Committee meeting on 3rd March 1946 it was reported that a deputation consisting of Messrs C S Thomas, J E W Cross and the Secretary (Mr H E Goggin) had waited on the North Canterbury Hospital Board’s Finance Committee regarding the purchase of the Addington property or alternatively of obtaining a long term lease. The Board’s Finance Committee recommended that the Club be granted a 100 years lease and this was referred to the Hospital Board at the Meeting on 27th March 1946. The North Canterbury Hospital Board signified their willingness to grant a lease in perpetuity but in October of that year, as Canterbury Park had not advised the Metropolitan Club regarding the amount they were prepared to contribute for racing at Addington, they were informed by the Metropolitan Club that if the two Clubs could not come to a satisfactory arrangement then the Metropolitan Club was not interested in a lease of the Addington property in perpetuity. In due course the Clubs agreed on the terms to race and the long lease with the Hospital Board was completed.

In September1957 the Hospital Board agreed to an annual rental of £2,000 for the following ten years. In December 1960 new valuations of the Addington property were received increasing the valuation from £165,425 to £353,175 and it was decided that objections be lodged to the new valuations. In April 1961 the Valuation Department advised that their estimates of the new values of the property were correct and would be effective if no objection was made. The necessary objection was lodged with the Valuation Department. The Club recommended that Counsel be appointed immediately to prepare for the next conference with the Department on the valuation of Addington and Mr R P Thompson was appointed to this position. The Directors were asked by the Club to take steps to purchase the Addington property and it was left to Messrs Thomas and Hoy to prepare a case following finality being reached on the revaluation of the property.

In January 1962 Mr C E Hoy (Chairman of Addington Trotting Course Ltd) reported that he and the Solicitor had met the Chief Valuer and there was not a chance of finalizing the valuation without going to Court.

In December 1964 the Club Treasurer, Mr C S Thomas, raised the question of the purchase of the property and the Chairman of Addington, Mr J K Davidson, said that he and Mr Smart had been empowered by the Directors to investigate the matter. In the following July Mr Davidson said that with Mr Smart he was meeting representatives of the North Canterbury Hospital Board on Wednesday, 21st July 1965. In the following August Mr Davidson reported to his Committee that he and Mr Smart had met representatives of the North Canterbury Hospital Board and it appeared they were prepared to sell the property to Addington Trotting Course Ltd if an official approach was made. At the same time the North Canterbury Hospital Board advised by letter that they were prepared to enter into negotiations for the sale of the Addington property to the Company and in October the Board advised that it would shortly be in position to commence negotiations with the Company.

As a preliminary to the negotiations for the purchase Mr Davidson said that he and Mr Laing (Director of Addington Trotting Course Ltd) had met the Minister of Health in Wellington who said tat the purchase of Addington by the Company had his blessing and he undertook not to interfere in the price negotiations provided they did not contravene the Twigger Trust.

At this time new valuations of the property were received and the Directors decided that Mr J M G Johnstone, who had previously handled the objections, be requested to do so again. The Addington Chairman reported to the Directors that the Valuer, J M G Johnstone, with Mr Hoy (a Director of A T C Ltd) had been successful in obtaining a reduction of £20,500 in the valuation which meant a great deal in lessening the land tax and rates and also it would affect the Hospital Board’s rental when it came up for review. Mr Davidson reported to the Committee on his and Mr Laing’s visit to Wellington and said that he had had further discussions with the Chairman of the Hospital Board when he had pointed out that the Company was still waiting to hear from the Board regarding the question of purchase.

In March 1966 Mr Davidson reported that he had had further discussions with Dr Averill, Chairman of the Hospital Board, who had advised that the Public Works Department had been instructed to prepare a valuation of Addington and his Board would soon reply to the Company’s offer and asked that representatives of the Company meet the Board to discuss the purchase after the Board had received a valuation of the property.

In July 1966 the Company’s Valuer, Mr J M G Johnstone, reported to the Directors on a decision by Perry J in the Auckland Supreme Court regarding a dispute between the Auckland Rugby League and the Auckland Hospital Board over the leasing of Carlaw Park. Mr Johnstone pointed out that there was a long way to go before either the valuation or the purchase price of Addington Raceway could be finalized and he recommended that the objection to the new valuations be proceeded with.

In September of that year Mr Davidson reported that he had spoken to Members of the Hospital Board and pointed out that some 14 months had elapsed since Addington representatives had approached the Board regarding the purchase of the property and that over 12 months had elapsed since a firm offer had been made in writing. The Secretary of the Board advised Mr Davidson that they were awaiting a legal opinion on the proposed sale and Mr Davidson pointed out to the Secretary of the Board that the Directors of the Company wanted some action by Members of his Board.

In December of that year the Hospital Board advised that there had been some delay due to difficult legal matters but that it was hoped to arrange a meeting of representatives within the next four weeks. At the same time Mr Davidson reported that together with Mr R W Saunders, the Club’s President, and Mr L S Smart, Chairman of Addington Raceway Ltd, he had attended a sub-committee meeting of the Hospital Board at which the Chairman of the Board, the Chairman of the Finance Committee and others were present. The Company representatives were informed that the Board had been advised by the Ministry of Works to do nothing about the sale of the Addington property in view of the proposed motorway. Representatives of the Hospital Board were asked to put a price on the property irrespective of the motorway proposal but had intimated that they did not wish to take any action until the route of the motorway was finalized.

In February 1967 the Board advised that due to intervention by Head Office of the Ministry of Works regarding the proposed motorway it had not been possible to obtain a valuation of the Addington property as a basis for negotiations for its sale to the Company and the Board’s Finance Committee had given the whole matter further consideration and hoped to have discussions at Government level in the near future. Mr J K Davidson said that he would be in Wellington and would discuss the question of the purchase of Addington with the Minister of Internal Affairs as it had not been possible to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister.

In May Mr Davidson said that he had waited on the new Minister of Finance, Mr R D Muldoon, who had advised that he had been put in the picture regarding the purchase of Addington but that as Minister of Finance he could not give any direct help and suggested that the Company keep in touch with the Minister of Internal Affairs. Mr Davidson said that the Minister of Internal Affairs had advised that if a directive from the Minister of Public Works to the Hospital Board was not acted on by the end of April then Addington Raceway Ltd should again refer the matter to the Hon. D C Seath, Minister of Internal Affairs who would take the matter up again with the Minister of Public Works. As no information had been received from the Hospital Board by the end of May regarding the sale of the property a letter was sent to the Hon. D C Seath asking him to implement the matter with the Minister of Public Works. In view of the delay regarding the purchase of the property the Company’s Solicitor was instructed to proceed with a notification to the Hospital Board of the Company’s intention to apply for an extension of the lease for a further term.

In the same month the Company’s Valuer, Mr A W Moyle, advised that he would be prepared to act in the discussion with the Hospital Board regarding the purchase of Addington. The Minister of Internal Affairs advised that the acting Minister of Works had informed him that a query had arisen regarding the lease of the property and had been referred to the Hospital Board’s Solicitors, and that the District Land Purchasing Officer on receipt of certain further information would complete his report on the sale at the earliest opportunity.

In October of that year the Hospital Board advised that they were no longer prepared to consider the sale of the property to the Company but were prepared to proceed with negotiations for the renewal of the lease. It was decided to engage Mr P T Mahon as Counsel to peruse the file on the negotiations with the Hospital Board for the purchase of Addington and that he be asked to give his opinion as to whether or not any suitable action could be taken.

Also in October it was decided to take further legal advice regarding the lease and to enquire the Company’s position in the matter of rental arising out of the lease after taking into consideration the decision of Perry J in the Carlaw Park case. Mr A M Cousens of Findlay, Hoggart and Cousens, Solicitors of Wellington, who was appointed to act as counsel, submitted his opinion regarding the lease and the Carlaw Park decision and this was referred to Mr C S Thomas for his opinion.

In January 1968 Mr W G Hadley was appointed the Company’s Arbitrator in the matter of the fixation of the valuation for the rental to be paid the Hospital Board. He said he was not prepared to act as a Valuer in regard to the rating objection which is to be heard at the Land Valuation Court. The Club’s Solicitor was asked to retain Me Mahon as Counsel and to ask him if he wished to nominate any expert witnesses for the hearing. The case came before the Lands Court on the 1st April with Mr Heddifern presiding. The Chairman of Addington Raceway who had attended the meeting said it appeared from the evidence that the decision would go the Company’s way but that in the meantime the Magistrate had reserved his decision.

In the following June the additional valuation of $21,500 which had been included on the chance of a change of zoning being approved was deleted from the valuation entirely and the Department and the North Canterbury Hospital Board both appealed against this judgment.

At the Committee meeting in December 1968, Mr P T Mahon reported on the outcome of the valuation appeal together with the judgment delivered by Tomkins J. Mr Mahon said that the Solicitors for the Hospital Board had advised they intended to apply to the Supreme Court for an interpretation of that part of the lease which deals with the assessment of rent as the terms of the lease are uncertain and without a court order there could be a dispute as to the principles upon which the Arbitrators should act in fixing the rental.

In March 1969 the Company Solicitor suggested that he be authorized to offer up to $2,000 additional rental to the Hospital Board through their Solicitors. This suggestion was agreed to. In May a letter from the Company Solicitor advised that the Solicitor for the Hospital Board had forwarded a proposal that the rental should be increased to $10,000 per annum. In December the Company Solicitor advised that the Hospital Board was not prepared to accept a rental of $5,008 per annum and the matter would proceed to arbitration in terms of the lease. As the Club’s Arbitrator Mr Hadley, had resigned due to indifferent health, it was left in the hands of the Company Solicitor and Counsel to appoint another Valuer and Mr A W Moyle was appointed the Club’s new Valuer.

In September 1970 a report was received from Mr P T Mahon outlining the arguments put forwarded by the Valuers and said that the Umpire had reserved his decision which would be received in due course.

In October the Hospital Board submitted an account for $20,277.06 being arrears in rental following the decision by the Court. In March 1971 new valuations were received and it was decided to ascertain whether or not they had been based on the court judgment. The Solicitor advised that a formal objection had been lodged against the new valuations. In June 1971 the Company’s Solicitor advised that following discussions with a member of the Valuation Department he held the view that the objections to the valuations should be withdrawn and the Company agreed to this. The decision of Judge Archer fixed the new rental at $2,782 per quarter instead of the $1,000 per quarter previously paid.

At the same time as the new rental rates were being finalized a new lease with the Hospital Board was executed on 2nd December 1970 under the name of Addington Raceway Ltd.

The Committee recommended to the Directors that investigations into the purchase of Addington again be made and at a meeting of Directors held on 30th June 1971 the Chairman said that he felt the approach to the North Canterbury Hospital Board regarding the purchase of Addington was a matter of timing and should be left until after the Local Body Elections. It was decided that the matter should again be considered in December.

In September 1975, Mr J R Hartley, Chairman of Addington Raceway, reported that he had discussed the question of the purchase of Addington with the Chairman of the North Canterbury Hospital Board who had undertaken to bring the matter up with his Finance Committee.

In October Mr Hartley stated that he had had further discussions with the Chairman of the Hospital Board who advised that the matter had been discussed with his Small Policies sub-committee which was reluctant to sell, the prime reason being that the income from the rental was trust money and they did not know where they could re-invest it as well as it is invested in the Addington property. Mr T C Grigg, the Hospital Board Chairman, said he felt the Board would not be legally able to do anything but invest the money in trust funds and if a way could be found around the problem the Board would still be prepared to consider selling the property to the Company.

In June 1977 the Company Solicitor advised that the lease fell due for renewal on 27th November 1977 and suggested that a sub-committee of the Directors meet a similar Committee of the North Canterbury Hospital Board to discuss the rental and the renewal. In November it was stated that the Hospital Board had not replied to the suggestion of a meeting. A sub-committee comprising Messrs H M S Dawson and T A Leitch was however appointed to act on the Company’s behalf.

In January 1978 the NCHB advised the name of its Arbitrator in the matter of the lease and the Company appointed Mr A P Faulls as its Arbitrator. In May it was decided that a hearing on the renewal of the lease was not necessary and the matter was left to the Company’s Solicitors to act in the best interest of Addington Raceway. In spite of the decision in May that a hearing on the renewal of lease was not necessary, arbitration was proceeded with.

In May 1978 it was decided that Mr T A Leitch approach Mr C E Hoy for a report on the potential of purchasing the property.

In January 1979 the Committee was advised that Messrs H M S Dawson and J R Hartley with the Assistant Secretary had met the Chairman of the North Canterbury Hospital Board and its Secretary, and that a formal offer to pay 70% of the total amount of the annual rental, irrespective of the motorway, as agreed to by the Arbitrators be made, without prejudice, as an interim measure until such time as the full extent of the land to be taken by the Ministry of Works had been determined. The amount was 70% of $22,000 per annum that is $15,400. The Company Solicitor was instructed to make this offer, through the Board’s Solicitor, Mr G H Gould, for consideration at the next meeting of the NCHB. In March the Directors were advised that the Arbitrators had approved the rental being $22,000 per annum and when accurate information regarding the area of land to be taken for the motorway was fixed the rental be adjusted as at the 26th of November 1977.

In August 1978 Mr Hartley reported that he had an independent survey carried out on the potential of Addington Raceway, if its purchase from the NCHB was possible, and that the property was now zoned residential B and recreational which could result in a substantial increase in the government valuation, and as a result heavy additional rental. It was decided that this matter be held over pending the arbitration on the rental being completed.

In March 1979 it was decided that an enquiry be made to the Hospital Board, with payment of the new rental, as to the price they would accept for the purchase of the property. The following May the Directors advised that the question of selling the freehold to the Company had been referred to the Hospital Board for a decision. Mr Dawson reported that the chairman, Mr T C Grigg has advised him that following a legal opinion, it had been ascertained that the Board had the power to sell the property. The matter had been referred to a sub-committee, and in the event of a sale it was possible the Board could assist with some finance. In September it was suggested that a feasibility study be undertaken on the financing and commitment to meet charges in the event of Addington being available for purchase.

In November the Company Solicitor Mr H P Smith advised that the lease with the North Canterbury Hospital Board was in order and ready for execution and that the rental would be $22,000 per annum. The Chairman, Mr Dawson reported to the Directors that he was having continuing discussions with the Chairman of the Hospital Board, regarding the purchase of Addington.

In August 1980 following a report from Ford & Hadfield Mr Dawson’s action in submitting an offer to the Hospital Board was ratified and it was understood that any offer was subject to confirmation by the Committees of the three Clubs. Later in the month a sub-committee comprising Messrs Dawson and Hartley was formed to investigate the purchase of the property and report back on the subject.

At a joint meeting of the three Committees in September 1980, the purchase of the property by Addington Raceway Ltd. at $1,100,000 with payments of principal spread over five years with interest at 12% was approved. In November the Directors advised that the final agreement and mortgage in relation to the sale and purchase of the Twigger Estate had been executed under seal, and that $50,000 had been transferred to the North Canterbury Hospital Board by way of deposit. The legal costs involved were $1,478 ad a draft media release, announcing the sale of the Twigger Estate to Addington Raceway Ltd. was approved.

In January 1981 the deed of surrender of lease with the North Canterbury Hospital Board was referred to Messrs Dawson and Cunningham for their consideration and if they considered its completion necessary to expedite settlement of the purchase of the land, they were authorized to execute the deed under lease. The purchase was completed and rental charges ceased on the 10th March 1981 whereon interest charges on the mortgage commenced.

In January 1984 the NZ Racing Authority confirmed that their advancement of $500,000 to Addington Raceway could be used for meeting the 1984-5 mortgage repayments and the cost of sealing the stables area.



Credit: NZMTC: Historical Notes compiled by D C Parker

CANTERBURY PARK TROTTING CLUB

In July 1921 it was reported that a satisfactory working arrangement had been entered into with the Canterbury Park Trotting Club for the use of the grounds.

In August 1922 as the plans for the development of the Riccarton property were being proceeded with the Committee agreed to offer the lease of the Addington property to the Canterbury Park Trotting Club. This offer included the freehold property, except that purchased from De Rigo, together with buildings and improvements but furniture, plant and the starting barrier were excluded. The price asked by the Club for the sale of the leasehold was £17,500. Within two days the President of the Canterbury Park Trotting Club, Mr H J Otley, met the Committee and offered to purchase the lease and buildings for £15,000. In October the Club’s Committee decided to accept the Canterbury Park Trotting Club’s offer.

An article appearing in the NEW ZEALAND REFEREE of 7th September 1922 reported that it had been announced that as a result of negotiations between the NZ Metropolitan and Canterbury Park Trotting Clubs the latter body would transfer its operations from Sockburn to Addington and take over the course when the Club moved to its Riccarton property. The article stated that on sentimental grounds some people would regret the departure o the Canterbury Park Trotting Club from the Course with which it was for so long associated both under its present name and under its former title of the Plumpton Park Trotting Club, the name chosen when the Club was established. The article further said that the property had had a long connection with sport of various kinds and had been used for coursing and galloping as well as trotting. When the Club was renamed the Canterbury Park Trotting Club a new era began at Sockburn and it quickly established itself as one of the most flourishing institutions in the Dominion. Its solid financial position had been a striking testimony to the efficiency of its management.

The disappearance of the mile grass track was not expected to be appreciated by all but the arguments in favour of the change far outweighed the disadvantages. The expenditure necessary to bring the equipment at Sockburn up to present day requirements would have been enormous and when the opportunity was offered to secure the Addington property at a reasonable figure the Canterbury Park Executive was commended for its wisdom in clinching the bargain. The Addington course on which the Metropolitan Club had expended something like £100,000 was considered the best trotting property in the Dominion and it was satisfactory that it was to be retained for the sport which had become so popular with New Zealanders. It was reported that with their experience at Addington to guide them the Metropolitan Club’s Executive could be depended upon to make their new Riccarton course perfect in every detail and the final result of the change would be of great benefit to the two Clubs and to trotting generally.

The lease at the time of its purchase by the Canterbury Park Trotting Club had nine years to run and it was not anticipated that the Club would have any difficulty in securing its renewal. It was estimated that as the development of the Riccarton property would take approximately two years the Metropolitan Club would remain at Addington in the meantime.

It was reported in December 1922 that the Canterbury Park Trotting Club’s grounds at Sockburn would be closed from early in the new year which proved to be a great set back to the large number of trainers in that area. The article went on to say that the decision by the Canterbury Park Trotting Club to transfer its headquarters from Sockburn to Addington proved to be a wise one in view of the increased attendances and totalisator turnovers that were recorded at its New Year Meeting on 1st and 2nd January 1923.

In January 1923 the agreement between the Metropolitan Club and Canterbury Park foe the transfer of the lease was completed and a sub-committee was appointed to dispose of the land purchased from De Rigo.

It was reported in the NEW ZEALAND REFEREE of 22nd November 1923 that at the Land Sales Rooms of H Matson & Co acting under instructions from the Canterbury Park Trotting Club, H Matson & Co in conjunction with Pyne, Gould, Guinness Ltd offered for sale by public auction the property known as Canterbury Park Sockburn. The property consisted of just under 82 acres and was offered as a whole with all buildings erected upon it. There was a fairly large attendance of the public with bidding starting at £5,000 and advancing by £500 bids to £6,500. After this figure had been reached an offer by the auctioneer to take £250 bids found no response and the property was passed in.

In accordance with the agreement the Canterbury Park Club advised the names of its representatives on the Grounds Management Committee and they were Messrs J Lester and R Wallace. The Metropolitan Club’s representatives on the Management Committee were Messrs E Fox and W Hayward.

The Chairman reported to members at the Annual Meeting in June 1923 that the course leasehold had been sold to the Canterbury Park Trotting Club at a satisfactory figure, the sale being made in anticipation of the Club’s move to Riccarton and that pending the completion of the new course the Club would carry on its operations at Addington.

The Chairman of the Canterbury Park Trotting Club in reporting to his members at the Annual Meeting said that the Committee had gone carefully into the question of carrying out repairs and improvements at Sockburn which would cost in the vicinity of £50,000. Not wishing to involve the Club in such heavy expenditure the proposition was put forward by the Metropolitan Trotting Club offering their interest in the Addington grounds for £15,000 was considered by the Committee and accepted.

By early 1928 it became obvious that the development of the Riccarton property could not be proceeded with and in May of that year arrangements were entered into with the Canterbury Park Trotting Club for the Club’s tenure of the Addington course to be as a tenant. In July a deed of agreement with the Canterbury Park Trotting Club was completed.

In June 1932 the Club’s Solicitor advised that the arrangements between the Club and the Canterbury Park Trotting Club regarding racing at Addington was not a lease but only a licence to race on certain days.

In December 1936 the CPTC was approached to sell its interest in the Addington course lease to the Met or to amalgamate. There is no record of this being developed further at the time.

In December 1943 the Committee appointed a deputation to approach the CPTC to enquire if it would be prepared to sell the course back to the Met but the following month CP advised that it was not prepared to do this and at the same time advised that the rental payable to the North Canterbury Hospital Board had been increased to £1,500 per annum.

In March 1945 a sub-committee was appointed to meet representatives of the CPTC regarding control of Addington. It was decided that its Committee should be informed of the Met’s proposal that a holding Company be established but this was not acceptable to the CP Committee who made a counter proposal to sell their interests to the Met provided they could race at Addington permanently. The CPTC was asked to make an offer and submit terms for their right to race. In May of that year the CPTC offered to sell its interest in Addington for £27,000 with the proviso that they be granted the permanent right to race at a rental of 1 and a quarter % of their On-Course turnover. At that point it was agreed that the Club’s sub-committee investigate the matter further.

In December 1947 with the object of reaching an agreement between the two Clubs the Met appointed Mr S P Godfrey its Investigating Accountant, to confer with the CPTC’s Accountants and bring down a joint report with the object of establishing a basis of tenure which would benefit each Club. In the following February the CPTC advised that Hicks & Ainger, its Accountants, would confer with Mr Godfrey regarding the tenure of the Addington Course. The following month Canterbury Park advised that its Accountants were not ready for further discussions as its Solicitor, Mr H P Smith, had advised them that the discussions should not be held until a settlement on the representatives on the Board of Trustees was agreed upon. In August the sub-committees of the two Clubs met regarding the control of the course and the CPTC asked for equal representation with the Chairman being appointed by each Club in alternate years.

In September 1950 concern was expressed by the Club for what appeared to be undue delay in the completion of the documents regarding the tenure of the Addington grounds and the Club’s Solicitor was asked for an immediate report on the matter.

In January 1951 it was reported that the Valuation Department valued the Canterbury Park Club’s interest I the course at £80,000, the Stamp Duty on which was £800. The question of Gift Duty then arose and this it was stated could amount to thousands.

In August 1951 it was reported that the arrangements for control of the grounds had been finalized but that a general meeting of members would have to be called. In September it was reported that the Stamp Duty on the transfer of the grounds to the Trust Board was £865/14/0 and that a Memorandum and Articles of Association were being prepared by the Solicitor. In the following months the Solicitor advised the Committee that he considered the delay in the completion of the documents governing control of the course was unreasonable. In December it was reported that the papers for the Trust Board had been drawn up and when finalized by Mr H P Smith, Solicitor to Canterbury Park, were being referred to Mr L J Hensley, an authority on Company Law for his perusal. In March 1952 the Memorandum and Articles of Association having been checked at a conference between Mr Hensley, Mr Twyneham, the Metropolitan Solicitor and Mr H P Smith were placed before a general meeting for ratification. In May of that year copies of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Addington Trotting Course Ltd were presented for execution and were signed by Messrs C S Thomas and C E Hoy on behalf of the Club.

At a Special General Meeting held in April 1952 the minutes recorded the following Notice of Motion:

“That this Meeting approves the proposal for the taking over control of the Addington Trotting Course by a separate body representing the NZ Metropolitan and the Canterbury Park Trotting Clubs and authorizes the Committee of the Metropolitan Trotting Club to execute all documents considered necessary to carry the proposal into effect”.

In August 1956 the draft of a proposed agreement (Licence to race) between the Club and the Company was not acceptable to the Committee and it was passed to the Club’s Solicitor for redrafting. The amended draft was subsequently approved by the Committee but with reservations by Me C S Thomas.

In March 1957 the licence to race between the Club and the Company was finalized and the document executed. The original licence to race was stamped in April 1957, the duty being 15 shillings. The Stamp Duties Department later considered that an error had been made in assessing the duty which should have been £70/19/6. The extra charge would not have been made in all probability if both the original and counterpart had been stamped at the same time.

The Committee held over the view that the Company should establish a fund with the object of having a reserve which could be used for the purchase of the property. In July 1960 it was reported that, after consultation with a representative of the CPTC, it was doubtful if that Club would agree to the setting aside of £1,000 per annum in a sinking fund as being mandatory. The Club advised Canterbury Park that in the interests of both Clubs it was necessary that no less than £1,000 be set aside each year. This was eventually agreed to.

The CPTC developed a mobile starting barrier and in October 1974 the Club was advised by Canterbury Park that its mobile starting gate would be available to the Club for its Cup Meetings at $100 per day or night.

In December 1983 the Club suggested that the replacement of the CPTC’s mobile barrier should be undertaken by Addington Raceway Ltd. In February 1984 the CPTC advised that they had purchased a suitable vehicle on which the starting gate could be mounted and that they were prepared to discuss the ownership with the Directors. In June 1985 Addington Raceway advised that the CPTC had offered to sell the gate to the Raceway at cost price less the subsidy received from the NZ Racing Authority and that the Raceway had the option to purchase the gate for $19,704. The gate had cost Canterbury Park $33,809 to manufacture and the Racing Authority had reimbursed the Club $14,105 from the Amenities Fund. The Canterbury Park Trotting Club’s offer was accepted.



Credit: NZMTC: Historical Notes compiled by D C Parker

CANTERBURY PARK TROTTING CLUB

The Canterbury Park Trotting Club traces its origins to the Plumpton Park Club, which raced on a 74 acre course at Sockburn centred on the present Air Force Museum. The early history of the club was fairly chequered and, for three seasons, it went into recess.

On Feb 2, 1884 the CANTERBURY TIMES advertised the "inaugural" meeting of the Plumpton Park Racing Club would be held on March 11, 1884.

Seven races were held including one Trot. The totalisator, operated by Hobbs and Goodwin, handled £1,300.

Club stewards for that first meeting were: B J Hall, E R Deacon, J B Hill, W Attwood, A McDonald, S Bailey, W H Porter, T H Ranger, T Acland & Captain Bell. The treasurer was W G Judge (also the chairman of the directors of the Coursing Club in 1886) and the Secretary was Mr E S B Bell.

The trot was won by the mare, Formosa, which was also owned by Mr E S B Bell, who is shown in the bookmakers' settling lists a few days later as being paid £28.

The trot also revealed a rather amateurish ring-in attempt. The CANTERBURY TIMES recorded thus:

"The handicapper having no knowledge of a brown mare called Kathleen, put her on 55 secs. But it became known that the mare resembled strongly a grey mare called Peggy, which had won the Dunedin Trot in 1882.
During the day the mare sweated and white patches on her tail became apparent. A steward ran his hand through her tail and it covered in a brown, sticky substance.
The horse was quickly removed from the course. She holds nominations at New Brighton and Lancaster Park meetings, but is unlikely to be seen again on a Canterbury racecourse."

The Club ran five meetings in the 1884-5 season, all with the same format. In 1886-7 there were four meetings and the following season Plumpton Park reverted to five meetings. At the February and April meetings the Club ran two trots on the programme instead of the customary one.

The last meeting of 1887-8 was held in July and in August the CANTERBURY TIMES reported there appeared to be a problem with successful owners not being paid out.

It transpired the meeting had been run solely by Mr E S B Bell, who was now adjudged bankrupt. Quite a scandal erupted and investigations revealed that Mr Bell's licence to run the meeting under the name of Plumpton Park had been granted by the Canterbury Jockey Club, which, for no apparent reason, had refused a similar request from a Mr M Taylor.

Stewards of the Club in those days were liable for the payment of stake-money but Mr Bell was found to have advertised his meeting without including the names of the stewards or other officials on the day.

The owners and public had contributed some £160 to Mr Bell and there should have been enough to pay out the stake-money and still leave some £40 over.

Mr Bell appears to have dropped out of sight, but the scandal continued.

On September 14, 1888, the CANTERBURY TIMES reported a court case involving Mr C Hood Williams, owner of Sultan, a winner at the meeting and to whom £28/10/- was due. Mr Williams sued a Mr P Campbell, who had been listed in the official race book as a steward and thus culpable to pay the stake.

During the case it was learned that Mr Bell, Secretary also of the Plumpton Park Coursing Club and the Island Bay Racing Club in Wellington (it was in recess at the time) had approaced Mr Campbell to act as a steward on the day.

Others in that capacity were a Captain Bell, Mr E S B Bell and Mr George Cutts.

On September 20 Judge Beetham found against the owner, Mr William, and ordered him to pay costs of £6/7/-, saying he had no claim against Mr Campbell.
"You entered into an agreement with Mr Bell, not Mr Campbell, and did so with your eyes wide open," said Judge Beetham.

The judge's decision aroused considerable controversy and the CANTERBURY TIMES was moved to comment: "It is a pity Judge Beetham was not better acquainted with the customs of the racing world in such matters."

The Plumpton Park Club then went into recess. It did not operate at all in the seasons of 1888-89, 1889-90 or 1890-91.

Then on July 9, 1891, the CANTERBURY TIMES carried an advertisment for a Plumpton Park Steeplchase meeting to be run on August 1.

The Club was granted a "conditional permit" by the Canterbury Jockey Club to run four steeplechase events and, at the time of advertising, still did not have a totalisator licence.

Stewards of the Club were given as: D O'Brien (also the judge), E W Roper, F Beverley, J A Holmes, C S Howell, J B Hill, T Quill, A S Clarkson (also hon. secretary), A Loughrey and R J Mason.

It was known officially as the Metropolitan Plumpton Park Company.

The CANTERBURY TIMES commented on the return of a Plumpton Park Club, recalling the debacle of 1888 and claimed there was "no known club racing at Plumpton Park".

The steeplechase meeting was moderately successful. The CANTERBURY TIMES on August 6, noted the club had now changed its name to the Plumpton Park Racing and Trotting Club and this is confirmed in a report from the New Zealand Trotting Association.

On October 8 1891, the CANTERBURY TIMES advertised the "inaugural meeting" of the Plumpton Park Racing & Trotting Club to be held on November 12.

It was to be the club's first full trotting meeting with eight races. Stewards were listed, the same as for the meeting on August 1, but the treasurer was Mr C S Howell, the secretary, J A Connell, and the starter, H J Derrett.

Nominations were taken at the Scotch Stores Hotel.

The meeting was a great success, the totalisator handling £2,409, and the honour of winning the first race went to Mr J Gaskin's grey mare J.M., which also won the last race.

Encouraged by that meeting the Club held another on January 1, 1892, offering increased stakes of £220.

On April 4, 1892, the first annual meeting of shareholders in the Plumpton Park Company was held. Mr T Quill was listed as chairman of directors and a profit of £62 was announced.

Mr Quill noted that during the last 12 months the Plumpton Park Racing and Trotting Club had operated as a separate body, having taken over the course and grandstands at cost price plus £25 per annum rental.

The Plumpton Park Club continued to operate successfully, mixing full gallop and trot meetings until 1896-7 when its two meetings that season were strictly for trotters.

The meetings were split into four days and were known as the spring and autumn meetings.

In 1898-99, for the first time, the club was officially known as the Plumpton Park Trotting Club, having dropped the word "Racing" at its annual meeting.

In 1898 Mr F Beverley was elected president. Until that time Mr C S Howell had been recognised as the chairman and he was voted president in 1899.

In 1895-6 the club made a profit of £212 and listed its assets at £433/1/4.

In 1896-7 it made a profit of £390/6/7 and listed assets of £2,625 which included the freeholding of the Plumpton Park course at £2,400.

Around this time it was decided to move the club's offices to the Duncan's Buildings, which were also the home of the Lancaster Park Trotting Club and the Canterbury Trotting Club.

The name of the club was changed to the Canterbury Park Trotting Club in October, 1909.

Credit: CPTC: Centennial History

CANTERBURY PARK TROTTING CLUB

CLUB PRESIDENTS: Canterbury Park TC

1898-1899 F Beverley
1899-1901 C S Howell
1901-1906 J L Carl
1906-1909 A L Myers
1909-1920 C S Howell
1920-1924 H J Otley
1924-1927 J Leslie
1927-1929 Hon G Witty
1929-1931 W T Franks
1931-1934 C E Cross
1934-1936 W F Parkinson
1936-1938 P F Ryan
1938-1940 J E W Cross
1940-1942 A Rose
1942-1944 M O'Brien
1944-1946 C Flavell
1946-1948 J F Franks
1948-1950 W Milne Shand
1950-1952 H H Wauchop
1952-1954 R T McMillan
1954-1956 C S Peate
1956-1958 F E Sutton
1958-1960 H T Fuller
1960-1964 L S Smart
1964-1966 T A Leitch
1966-1968 H F Butland
1968-1970 E F Mercer
1970-1973 S C Cordner
1973-1976 S Andrews
1976-1979 W G P Cuningham
1979-1981 F R Brebner
1981-1984 R H Duff
1984-1987 L A Smart
1987-1990 B F Hastings
1990-1993 J L Hughes
1993-1996 G E Dickey
1996-1998 B Andrews

1998 Amalgamated with NBHRC & NZMTC to form a new Club