About Us

Waikato Stud, owned and operated by the Chittick family, is a world-renowned thoroughbred nursery that was established almost 40 years ago.

Waikato Stud encompasses more than 1,200 acres of prime Waikato farm land, all of which is dedicated to breeding, rearing, and preparing thoroughbreds.

Waikato offers services for every stage of a thoroughbred’s life – from the finest neonatal care at the stud’s newborn facility, through yearling sales preparation or private sale at later stages of development, to broodmare care and boarding.

Centaine Farm is a new adjacent addition to the stud which will provide an extra 250 acres for mares. Centaine Farm joins Valleyfields in the Hinuera valley, a base for weanlings, as the latest expansion to the Waikato domain.

Courtza Park is the breaking in and pre-training complex of Waikato Stud. It is a purpose-built facility that is popular with leading agents and buyers as a fruitful source of young equine athletes.

Matching the superb environment at Waikato is a commitment to utilise the best. Topping the list is our own resident veterinarian Dr Fauna Smith-Furness. Our feeding and nutrition programme encompasses the latest scientific research balanced with clean, green stud pasture. The Waikato team is a group of committed, experienced professionals, who contribute to each and every stud success.

Client communication is a top priority through the breeding season as Waikato Stud recognises that relationships are the foundation of our business.