Melbourne Cup 2025 LIVE: The $500,000 bet that made Al Riffa favourite; Rain falls as Zahra stars ahead of Cup ride

The rain has arrived at Flemington, but race goers left outdoors are staying optimistic.

This group of New Zealanders from Christchurch came prepared – and umbrellas were out and ready almost instantly.

Racegoers from Christchurch, New Zealand, at the Melbourne Cup.Credit: Gemma Grant

Australian DJ CYRIL is also playing music nearby at The Elms live stage.

Here to celebrate a birthday, the group says that spirits are high, and that they’re used to the inconsistent weather.

It won’t get in the way of enjoying the day.“It’s a bucket list item for us. If you’re into racing, it’s great.”

Australian dance music trio PNAU are pushing ahead despite the weather, playing on a (covered) stage as a part of their pre-cup televised performance.

Guests are up and about, most holding umbrellas or wearing plastic ponchos.

The musicians will be back on stage this evening after the races have finished for a full-length performance.

Now they’re playing their hit single Chameleon.

The crowd like this one – more people are filtering onto the dance floor…But as quickly as they started, they’re off again.

All eyes back to the big race.