Police say they expect to make "a number of arrests" and lay charges against those caught up in the alleged harness race-fixing scandal.
It comes as police raided multiple horse stables throughout the country today as part of an ongoing investigation into race-fixing in the harness racing industry.
Speaking to media Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson said he expects "charges laid this afternoon and arrests will be made".
He said imprisonment is a possible punishment, if any accused are found guilty.
1 NEWS understands the investigation involves some of the country's biggest names in harness racing. (Source: Other)
Search warrants were executed at eight properties in Christchurch, one in Invercargill and another in Manawatū.
The investigation began in April last year on information from the Racing Integrity Unit, who are working closely with police.
Racing Minister Winston Peters has expressed his disappointment over the allegations.
"This is a sad development. New Zealanders need to have confidence that the racing industry has integrity and is not above the law," Mr Peters said.
"It highlights how important it is that we have a strong, independent authority like the Racing Integrity Unit to ensure offending behaviour is brought to light. We can have confidence that the system is working."
Harness Racing NZ said it was informed of the raids this morning.
"The integrity of harness racing is of paramount importance. These allegations are serious and very concerning," chief executive Edward Rennell said in a statement.
"The independent Racing Integrity Unit and New Zealand Police have Harness Racing New Zealand’s total support in addressing this and ensuring the industry’s integrity is maintained."
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