For the first time in its 117-year history Addington Cup Week will not be open to the public.
Self Assured and driver Mark Purdon win the 2020 NZ Trotting Cup at Addington Raceway. Photo: Photosport
Organisers of Cup Week in Christchurch had hoped the South Island would have dropped to an alert level without restrictions in time for the event in the second week of November.
Addington Raceway chief executive Brian Thompson said the races go ahead but without the crowds.
The Canterbury A&P Show, one of the events that makes up Cup and Show Week, was cancelled earlier this month for the second consecutive year.
Addington Raceway racing industry manager Darrin Williams sad it was incredibly disappointing, but anticipates bars and restaurants may still benefit from punters determined to celebrate the event.
The raceway will suffer a close to 20 percent hit on its finances due to the public being closed off from the racing.