New Zealand’s Racing Industry Transition Agency has confirmed changes it was taking in response to the impact of COVID-19, including a reduction of 230 roles, including 150 permanent staff, across all areas of the TAB.

The decision follows consultation with staff on a range of proposed changes aimed at ensuring the business was sustainable for the future and best placed to meet the needs of New Zealand racing and sport. The changes, which impact 30 percent of all roles, are expected to deliver savings of more than $11million per annum in addition to further operational cost savings throughout the business. 

RITA Executive Chair, Dean McKenzie said the decision was very difficult but the organisation was left with no alternative with TAB monthly revenue almost 50 percent below forecast and customer numbers down more than 35 percent.

“There are incredibly talented, experienced and committed people at the TAB who have delivered so much to our customers and the wider racing industry over many years. We will be very sorry to see them go.

“We have had to make some tough decisions as we focus on the essential parts of our business that generate the funding required to keep the racing industry and many National Sporting Organisations running.”