Purchasing horses in New Zealand is simple.
There are a number of buying opportunities at public auction through New Zealand Bloodstock, which operates from the world-class Karaka Sales complex just south of Auckland. NZB’s online subsidiary gavelhouse.com runs monthly thoroughbred auctions online. Alternatively, private sales are common within New Zealand for both untried and proven horses.
Public auction.
New Zealand Bloodstock is the principal auction house in New Zealand and conducts three physical sales throughout the year including:
National Yearling Sales Series (January)
National Weanling Sale (June)
Ready to Run Sale of 2YOs (November)
Looking for information on the next public auction? Click here to visit the New Zealand Bloodstock website.
Online auction.
gavelhouse.co.nz is a 100% New Zealand-owned subsidiary of New Zealand Bloodstock.
As well as monthly auctions, highlight lots are also consigned via Gavelhous Plus.
Auctions are open for one week of bidding and are held fortnightly.
For more information visit gavelhouse.co.nz
Private Sales.
Beyond the Karaka sale ring, horses are regularly traded in New Zealand through private transactions.
It is recommended that prospective purchasers utilise the services of a reputable Bloodstock Agent.
Experienced Bloodstock Agents have a strong knowledge of the horse — ability and soundness — and good insights as to which markets a prospective horse would be best suited.
For a list of members of the Bloodstock Agent’s Federation, who adhere to the code of conduct, click here.
Breed.
With its unparalleled environment, New Zealand breeds and raises thoroughbreds of outstanding conformation and soundness, matched by pedigrees of international appeal.
Investment in thoroughbred breeding in New Zealand has been substantial, with a number of leading thoroughbred nurseries owned by foreign interests.
The New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (NZTBA) is the official body that represents thoroughbred breeders in New Zealand. For more information on thoroughbred breeding in New Zealand click here.
Taxation.
The current rate of GST (Goods & Services Tax) is 15% and is charged on all bloodstock purchased. However, an exemption is available if the horse is destined for export overseas.
Additionally, the New Zealand Tax department has a 24 month rule, which allows horses purchased for export to be educated, broken-in and attend barrier trials in New Zealand while still being exempt.
For more information click here.
