We’re delighted to welcome Melinda Bowman to Racing Tauranga as our new Events Manager.
With racing in her blood and a lifelong connection to the industry, Melinda brings a unique blend of hands-on racing experience and a passion for creating memorable experiences for people.
Alongside our racedays, she’ll be helping bring to life a wide range of events at Tauranga Racecourse from weddings and corporate functions to community celebrations and private events.
We sat down with her to learn more about her background, what inspires her, and what she’s excited to bring to Tauranga Racecourse...
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Q: Tell us a little about yourself and your journey to Racing Tauranga…
I come from a racing family, my grandparents were trainers and my uncle is a racecourse manager, so racing has always been part of my life. Some of my earliest memories are going to the stables with my nana and grandad.
I rode trackwork before school, biked to catch the bus, and then headed back to the stables after school to help feed up. That early involvement led me to become an apprentice jockey to my grandad, and I rode my first winner at Ashburton on True Justice on 8 April 2001.
I was also the strapper for Bazelle when she won the Auckland Cup, before travelling to Queensland with Paul Jenkins to campaign her out of the New Zealand winter in preparation for the Melbourne Cup. Leading her into the birdcage on Melbourne Cup Day was an experience I’ll never forget.
Those experiences gave me a real appreciation for what happens behind the scenes and how much coordination goes into bringing people together, whether it’s a raceday, a wedding, or a corporate event and I’m looking forward to bringing to life all types of events here at Tauranga Racecourse (but especially our racedays!).
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in events?
Growing up around racing gave me insight into how much work goes into making a successful raceday, but I also loved the atmosphere of events more broadly, seeing people connect and enjoy themselves. That behind-the-scenes side of things, and being part of creating great experiences for people, is what drew me into events.
Q: Who or what has been the biggest influence on your career so far?
I’ve been lucky to learn from many people along the way. I believe you can take something from everyone you work with, and the dedication and work ethic of those around me have shaped how I approach my role.
Q: What previous roles or experiences have prepared you for this position?
My background in racing taught me the importance of organisation, communication, and being adaptable. Being involved behind the scenes showed me how crucial planning is, skills that translate really well to managing all kinds of events, from race meetings through to private and corporate functions.
Q: Are there any particular events or projects you’re especially proud of?
I’m still relatively new to Racing Tauranga events, but I’ve enjoyed being involved in projects where strong planning and teamwork help create a seamless experience for guests whether that’s on raceday or for private events and functions.
Q: What skills or strengths do you bring to event management that set you apart?
I’m organised, calm under pressure, and very detail-focused which is important when you’re managing multiple moving parts across different types of events!
Q: What do you love most about planning and managing events?
I love working as part of a team and seeing people enjoy an experience that’s been thoughtfully planned.
Q: Do you have a favourite type of event to work on? Why?
I really enjoy the Bayleys Community Carnival Raceday, especially the Tauranga Crossing Fashions in the Field competition, which is a qualifier for The Ned Prix de Fashion at Ellerslie. The effort people put into their outfits is incredible, and the atmosphere on the day is always fantastic.
With live music on the lawn, food trucks, market stalls and vintage car displays, it has such a great community feel. I also love seeing how the venue transforms for different types of events, from large racedays through to more intimate celebrations.
Q: How do you approach creating memorable experiences for attendees?
I always think about the event from the guest’s point of view and focus on creating a relaxed, welcoming and enjoyable experience from the moment they arrive.
Q: What excites you most about joining the Racing Tauranga team?
Being part of a passionate team and having the opportunity to help grow the events side of the racecourse not just racedays, but also weddings, corporate functions and celebrations.
Q: Are there any ideas or initiatives you’re particularly eager to bring to our events?
I’m keen to support ideas that enhance the overall guest experience and showcase the racecourse as a great venue for a wide range of events, making everything welcoming, enjoyable and easy to navigate.
Q: How do you balance behind-the-scenes planning with the excitement of event day?
Strong preparation behind the scenes means I can focus on the guest experience on the day and enjoy seeing everything come together.
Q: What event trends are you expecting to see this year?
There’s a growing focus on creating experiences people want to return to…events that feel personal, welcoming and well thought-out, whether they’re social, corporate or community-focused.
Q: Any must do’s or must not’s you can share?
Must do: Plan well, communicate clearly, and always think from the guest’s point of view.
Must not: Assume everything will go exactly to plan! Flexibility and teamwork are key.
Q: Outside of work, what are some of your passions or hobbies?
I love spending time with my own horses and competing in showing events. One of my proudest moments was last year at the New Zealand National Horse and Pony Show in Dannevirke, where our very special pony, RP Bow Tie, won the National Newcomer Pony title — a moment I’ll always treasure.
I also love to travel (highlights include Cambodia and Vietnam) experiencing different cultures, great food, and a touch of glamour.
Q: How do you stay inspired and creative in a role that can sometimes be high-pressure?
I stay inspired by learning from each event and building on what worked well, while always looking for small ways to improve the experience for guests.
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With her deep roots in racing and a genuine passion for creating memorable experiences across racedays, weddings, corporate functions and celebrations, Melinda is set to play a key role in the future of events at Tauranga Racecourse. We’re excited to see her ideas come to life and look forward to welcoming you to the racecourse for an event soon — on and off the track.
Interested in hosting your next event at Tauranga Racecourse?