New Zealand’s Racing Industry Transition Agency (RITA) has announced initial approval for businesses and stakeholders in the country’s thoroughbred and harness racing sectors to return to work on 28 April.

Subject to meeting strict protocols and guidance established by each code, staff will be able recommence trialling and training, with preparations set to continue over the weekend.

The decision comes after the New Zealand government downgraded to Alert Level 3 of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) alert system, which requires strict social distancing measures to be put in place, but allows for a partial re-opening of the economy. Horse racing in the country had been suspended since 25 March when Alert Level 4 – resulting in a nationwide lockdown – was put into effect.

However, RITA said it is yet to reach an agreement as to when greyhound racing could return, with officials in ..

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