All eyes on Addington for Cup Day action

Workplaces across the city are emptying out today as thousands of people head to Addington for Cup Day - one of the most glamorous and highly anticipated social events of the year.

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About 20,000 glammed-up punters are expected at Addington Racecourse for Christchurch Casino New Zealand Trotting Cup Day, which is considered the most prestigious harness racing event in Australasia.

There will be a dedicated taxi rank on course which will have a large supply of cabs available throughout the day and an extra supply at peak times.Heavy traffic is expected around the raceway and racegoers are being advised to take a taxi or a bus to the track.

Addington is also providing a free drop-off bus service for on-course patrons. Between 5.30pm and 7pm buses will leave the Wrights Road end of the racecourse every half hour to drop race-goers off on Riccarton Road, near Trevinos Restaurant, or outside McDonalds in Papanui Road.

An alcohol ban will operate around the areas surrounding Addington Raceway from 9am to 10pm.

The ban covers the areas bounded by Lincoln Road, Moorhouse Avenue, Blenheim Road, Matipo Street and Wrights Road.