Cover image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock
By Bren O'Brien
New Zealand Bloodstock is set to launch a new online bidding platform at its November Ready to Run Sale of 2YOs.
NZB already operated a digital auction platform through online subsidiary gavelhouse.com, which introduced the market to such technology four years ago, and responding to the demands of the COVID-19 era, it has developed a solution which has been specifically developed for the future of their thoroughbred and standardbred auction sales.
It is currently running testing on the platform ahead of the Ready to Run Sale, which will be held on November 18 and 19 at Karaka.
“With the upgrade to ultra-fast fibre at Karaka, we are now in the position to offer online bidding services for registered buyers who are unable to physically attend our auctions," NZB Bloodstock Sales Manager Danny Rolston said.
“We have been running a strong online bidding platform for years with gavelhouse.com and this extension will be no different.
“We know this platform is robust and it’s going to be really easy to use for customers, during what is a critical time due to the global pandemic.
“We know this platform is robust and it’s going to be really easy to use for customers, during what is a critical time due to the global pandemic. " - Danny Rolston
“Features have been carefully thought out to assist potential buyers and we are excited for its debut at the Ready to Run Sale,” Rolston said.
NZB's sales rely significantly on international investors and at last year's Ready to Run Sale, eight of the top 10 lots went to overseas buyers, while six of the top 10 buyers were from outside of New Zealand.
Danny Rolston
The new platform is designed to create more options for those unable to attend the Sale, with the likelihood that travel restrictions will be still be in place which will restrict travel to New Zealand in November.
NZB will continue to broadcast its sales live via its website, social media platforms and relevant television channels, but the improved network infrastructure implemented at the Karaka Sales Centre will mean that buyers logged in from around the world can bid of their own accord.
More details about the new online bidding platform’s functionality and how to register will be made available to buyers ahead of the Sale.
The COVID-era has led to a revolution in how bloodstock sales have been held in Australia and New Zealand. Inglis, which conducts regular online auctions through its Inglis Digital platform, conducted part one of its iconic Easter Yearling Sale as a virtual Sale, while Magic Millions launched a new digital sales platform earlier this year.
