This month’s BetaVet Under The Radar shines a spotlight on someone who helps manage the essential day-to-day workings of New Zealand’s Thoroughbred breeding records — Kirstie Lang. As Assistant Keeper of the Stud Book, Kirstie works alongside industry legend Julie Walker to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and future of New Zealand’s Thoroughbred lineage. With a lifelong passion for horses and more than a decade of experience across studs, racing operations, and the Stud Book itself, Kirstie’s impact on the industry runs far deeper than most ever see.
1. Explain your role and who you work for.
I work for New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing as the Assistant Keeper of the Stud Book. Along with Julie (Keeper of the Stud Book) we are responsible for keeping the NZ Stud Book up to date with coverings, imports, exports, foaling’s and everything related to breeding Thoroughbreds in NZ. The main body of my work is importing & exporting Thoroughbreds in and out of NZ for breeding & racing purposes. This involves ensuring the correct paperwork is lodged with NZTR as well as with overseas Stud Books or Racing Authorities. I also help Miranda & Jason in the Registrations team with naming’s, leases & change of ownership during busy times.
2.What do you enjoy most about your role?
The variety of the job and the people you encounter. No two workdays are the same, depending on the time of year & what is currently happening in breeding & in the industry.
3.What is your background in the industry?
I have a Bachelor of Applied Science, major Equine Studies. As part of my degree, I had to complete work experience where I worked for a yearling prep with Rich Hill Stud in 2009/10 season & then once I finished my degree in October 2010, I spent 2.5 years working for Little Avondale Stud. I then moved onto NZTR in 2013, where I started in the National Racing Bureau. In 2015 I was offered the chance to work with Julie in the Stud Book where I have been for the last decade.
4.What do you love about the industry and why you think someone should get involved no matter the level
I have always loved horses (despite being from a non-horsey family) and Thoroughbreds are such amazing creatures. Despite no longer working with them hands on, I could not imagine working in any other industry. The passion people have for the Thoroughbred & the industry is incredible.
5.What are some of the difficulties your role can face? If any.
Dealing with people who think they know better than you or think because you sit in an office, you don’t care what happens out there in the industry.
6.Are you involved in the industry in other ways?
I don’t currently have any horses of my own, but I live vicariously through friends & colleagues who have racehorses.
7.What are your interests outside of your role?
I love to read and buy books to add to my ever-growing collection & spending time with friends, family & my husband.
8.What advice would you give some wanting to enter the industry in any capacity?
With so many paths to explore, this industry truly welcomes everyone, including those who’ve never even touched a horse before.
