Laura Macnab

Stable Manager (NZ)

Te Akau is delighted to welcome Laura Macnab into the role of Stable Manager for our New Zealand operation – a full-circle moment for a talented horsewoman who has grown up with the Te Akau brand and now returns home with invaluable international experience.

Laura first joined Te Akau as a 16-year-old, working through school and university holidays at Te Akau Stud before progressing into the stable team at Matamata. Over the years she advanced to the position of foreperson, gaining hands-on experience across all aspects of stable operations and raceday preparation.

Her time with Te Akau included notable Group success, strapping Imperatriz to win the Group 1 BCD Group Sprint and Group 2 Foxbridge Plate, Maven Belle to win the Group 3 Cambridge Stud Almanzor Trophy, and Pin Me Up in the $1 million Karaka Million 3YO Classic.

A graduate of Massey University with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Equine major), Laura was also awarded the prestigious 2020 NZTBA Irish National Stud Breeding & Management Diploma Scholarship, sponsored by the Keith and Faith Taylor Trust (Trelawney Stud).

Seeking to broaden her experience internationally, Laura spent nearly three years in Newmarket, UK – the epicentre of British racing. She worked for leading trainers John and Thady Gosden, rising to a head-lad role while continuing to ride and manage barn responsibilities. Her time abroad included exposure to racing at Royal Ascot, Epsom Downs, Glorious Goodwood, York’s Ebor Festival, Champions Weekend, and numerous other premier meetings. She also gained experience with a developing trainer and a breaking and pre-training operation, further diversifying her skillset.

Laura said:

“Having worked for Te Akau since I was 16, it feels incredibly special to return in this capacity. I’ve always appreciated the systems and standards in place here, particularly around owner communication and professionalism. After gaining experience overseas, I see this as the next step in my career and a great opportunity to contribute at a higher level.”

Te Akau principal David Ellis CNZM said:

“Laura has been part of our wider Te Akau family for many years. She understands our people, our systems, and most importantly, our horses. Her international experience has added another dimension to her skillset and we’re delighted to see her stepping into this pivotal role within our New Zealand stable.”

With a strong agricultural background – her family farm in the Te Akau district – and 12 years of involvement across both the stud and stable, Laura brings continuity, professionalism and fresh perspective to the position.

Her appointment ensures the ongoing strength of communication, organisation and operational excellence that Te Akau prides itself on, as we continue striving to deliver the very best experience and results for our owners.

We are proud to welcome Laura home and look forward to this next chapter together.