Te Akau Appoints New Assistant Trainer

Te Akau Racing is delighted to announce the appointment of Hunter Durrant to the role of Assistant Trainer, acknowledging his important role in the stable's continued success.

"We recognise Hunter's dedication and expertise, especially in managing our Riccarton operation under the guidance of our trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson," said Te Akau Principal David Ellis CNZM.

“Hunter has been exceptional since we established our permanent base at Riccarton,” Ellis said. 

“He’s a skilled horseman with a calm demeanor, sharp instincts, and the ability to connect with our owners and team. This promotion is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and leadership.”

Durrant joins a distinguished lineup of assistant trainers, including Nicole Shailer at Matamata in the North Island and Ben Gleeson at Cranbourne in Victoria, who play crucial roles in ensuring seamless operations across Te Akau’s stables.

Last season Te Akau's southern operation delivered exceptional results - earning three prestigious titles at the South Island Racing Awards, including Champion Two-Year-Old for Nucleozor and Champion Miler for Perfect Scenario.

This season the seamless success continues, fresh off a NZ Cup carnival week that included Captured By Love winning the Group 1 NZ 1000 Guineas and Mehzebeen the Group 3 NZ Cup and Listed Metropolitan Stakes.

The wins this season have included a landmark moment on 28 September 28 when Age of Discovery delivered Mark Walker’s 2000th career training victory. 

Hunter’s promotion solidifies Te Akau’s commitment to excellence in racing. 

David Ellis CNZM added: 

“We love supporting South Island racing and first had stables in 2002 at Rangiora. It was timely to set up permanently again in the South last season, with the stables at Riccarton, and Hunter has been instrumental in that success.

 “Hunter’s promotion is not only about rewarding hard work but also about setting the stage for even greater success.”