The Future of Forbury Park consultation - Harness Racing New Zealand

When Dunedin’s former raceway, Forbury Park, closed in 2020, Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) came to Priority Communications for help in delivering a major public consultation on how the 12.2 hectare property could be used in the future.

The racing code wanted to learn what residents, community groups, government agencies and organisations thought would be the best option for the land in the years ahead.

Our team developed a strategic consultation plan that set the path for engaging with key stakeholders, gathering ideas, and presenting this feedback to HRNZ for consideration.

We engaged with local iwi, government bodies, neighbouring residents, businesses and racing enthusiasts, presenting them with several potential options and collecting their perspectives and ideas.

Following a full communications campaign, The Future of Forbury Park consultation generated substantial community feedback, with more than 300 submissions made. It was the first of its kind since the passing of the Racing Industry Act 2020 and was expected to set the standard for future consultations on the sale of New Zealand racing venues.