Activists are taking a stand against Auckland's Boxing Day horse races.
Fashionistas flocking to Ellerslie racecourse for the event will be greeted by placards claiming that horse racing kills.
Aya McKenzie from the Coalition for the Protection of Race Horses told Newshub every aspect of racing is cruel.
"Animals are not our tool; they are not here for us to be exploited and to be used for moneymaking and entertainment."
Ms McKenzie and other protesters won't be loud, but their protest will be confronting, she says. The group intends to stand outside the event.
"We're not going to be approaching the race course, we won't be chanting, we'll just be holding the sign and then if anybody wants to talk to us we will, but the main purpose is just raising awareness."
The group said in a statement that punters should avoid the races and instead find another cruelty-free activity for the holidays.
The often fatal consequences of horse racing injuries have been in the spotlight this year after Melbourne Cup entrant The Cliffsofmoher was euthanized on the track.
The Irish-bred stayer was a favourite for the Cup, after a promising run at the Caulfield Cup in October, finishing third.
But he fractured his shoulder early on in the race and was put down.
Auckland Racing Club has been contacted for comment.
Newshub.
