Hawea Picnic Races

11/08/2026

It's with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the passing of one of our true legends - Mick Prendergast. He was a constant at our race meeting for over 40 years as the handicapper and a competitor.

They don't makem' like Mick anymore - deepest condolences to all his family.

Obituary – Mick Prendergast
By Tayler Strong, 11 August 2026

Mick Prendergast, the former oldest New Zealand reinsman to drive a winner at 81, has died, aged 92.

Prendergast equaled the record set by John Burgess with Silverdale Pride in 2008 when he drove his own horse , the trotter Holdon Toyaspurs to win twice at Forbury Park in the 2014-15 season. He trained Holdon Toyaspurs and raced the 8yr-old with a neighbour Simon Russell.

The record has since been surpassed by Luk Chin, the 83-yr-old who drove Jasinova to win at Cambridge in May.

Michael John (Mick) Prendergast trained Holdon Toyaspurs on his farm at Hyde. He rode Spree to win a saddle race for pacers at the Cromwell Jockey Club meeting in 1961. He was handicapper for the Hawera Picnic Racing Club for over 40 years.

Mick was a brother to Tony, Dick, Maurice, Frank and Owen. Dick trained Simon Katz to win the 1987 Dominion Handicap, the premier race for trotters.

Tony made his mark training thoroughbreds with Mr Ay Bee his best.

Mick Prendergast pictured after a win with Holdon Toyaspurs at Forbury Park in 2015.

09/08/2026

Its not often you get the opportunity to go to the races here in Wanaka. Well now is your chance!
Mt Aspiring College rugby, in association with premium sponsor Jock Pittaway, are hosting a virtual horse racing event at the rugby club on Sat 5th September at 6.30pm. This evening promises to deliver high energy, tons of laughter and cash galore. Grab your mates and snap up tickets as this event will SELL OUT.

Here is the link to the Facebook event-
https://www.facebook.com/share/195wc3xfD2/

Here is the link direct to ticket sales-
https://events.humanitix.com/the-pittaway-family-derby-race-night/tickets

24/04/2026

Tomorrow, as we commemorate those who have made the ultimate sacrifice at Anzac Day parades around NZ, spare a thought for the 10,000 horses sent to support the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in WW1.

They served where most New Zealanders served: in German Samoa, at Gallipoli, in the Middle East and on the Western Front.

Of those who survived the war, only four returned home 😢

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning.
We will remember them."