Course Manager

Hawke's Bay Racing Incorporated

HB

 

Hawke’s Bay Racing Incorporated is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Course Manager to lead the management, development, and future growth of its racing and training facilities at Hastings. 

This is a management position with responsibility for delivering race day and training surfaces of the highest standard, fully compliant with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) Track Preparation Guidelines. The role also plays a key part in the planning and implementation of the exciting Portsmouth Road Greenfields Racecourse development, a cornerstone project for the future of Hawke’s Bay racing.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Course Manager will provide strong leadership to track and grounds staff, work closely with trainers and riders, and maintain effective relationships with NZTR and other key industry stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

  • Preparation and delivery of world-class race day and training surfaces
  • Leadership and management of track and grounds staff and external contractors
  • Development and implementation of annual course management and maintenance plans
  • Oversight of irrigation, fertiliser, and equipment programmes
  • Budget management, asset stewardship, and capital expenditure planning
  • Strong engagement with trainers, riders, NZTR, and Club stakeholders
  • Active contribution to the Portsmouth Road Greenfields Racecourse project and broader Club strategic objectives
  • Close collaboration with the NZTR Track & Infrastructure Team and Regional Track Advisors.

About You

You will be a proven leader with a strong technical background and a collaborative approach. Ideally, you will bring:

  • Demonstrated experience in track, turf, or grounds management, preferably within racing or a high-performance sporting environment
  • Strong people leadership and stakeholder engagement skills
  • Sound knowledge of turf management, irrigation systems, and agronomy practices
  • Well-developed planning, budgeting, and organisational capabilities
  • A professional, proactive, and safety-focused approach to work

Why Join Us? 
This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in one of New Zealand’s premier racing environments and to contribute meaningfully to the long-term future of Hawke’s Bay racing through a major Greenfields development.

Applications close: Friday 13 February 2026 
Enquiries: Darin Balcombe [email protected]