Lord Van Percy will become champion trainer Darren Weir’s first starter in New Zealand.

The imported galloper leaves for New Zealand on Thursday to run in the Auckland Cup (3200m) at Ellerslie on Saturday.

Local rider Vinnie Colgan has been booked for the ride.

“There are not many two mile races around and Lord Van Percy’s owners have been keen for the horse to come to Ellerslie,” Weir’s racing manager, Jeremy Rogers, told NZ Racing Desk.

“We are very happy with his condition. He was OK last start start and we are pretty confident he will manage the distance.

“He’s a strong stayer.”

After a successful career in England, Lord Van Percy has yet to win in nine starts since making his Australian debut for OTI Racing in October 2014.

MELBOURNE, March 6 AAP