The pancakes are in the pan and the glasses are clinking in Christchurch.

The New Zealand Trotting Cup is on at Addington and restaurants across town are putting on their annual champagne breakfasts.

Strawberry Fare owner Liz Barry said they put on a special menu for the day every year.

She said bookings have been slow this time but they're expecting last minute calls this morning.

"We're not looking as busy as usual, we're really hoping that will pick up. It's always good to have a good breakfast before you go."

Smart travel plans are a key message Christchurch Police are reiterating to public today with the start of Cup and Show Week.

Senior Sergeant of Canterbury Road Policing Kelly Larsen said decisions made after alcohol consumption aren't always the best.

She urges people to pre-arrange their transport to and from events.

"Plan to take public transport, organise a ride home, or have a nominated sober driver if there's a group of you out drinking."

Drivers can expect to be stopped anywhere, anytime.

Larson said Police will have extra staff on duty during the week to help minimise alcohol related harm.

"When I talk about alcohol related harm, that's anything from assault and fights to road policing and people who are drunk driving."

Up to 25,000 people will be at Addington Raceway today for the New Zealand Totting Cup.