The sale of Auckland's Avondale Racecourse could unlock significant space for development and the community.

The course is one of 20 earmarked for closure in a bleak review of the racing industry, which says the sport is in crisis.

Whau Community Board chair Tracy Mulholland says if the course does close, some of the land should be reserved for community activity.

"It could be an opportunity for housing, sports field, green space, for our people of the future."

Derek Battersby, from the Whau Local Board, agrees, saying not all of the land should go towards development.

"Retaining the playing fields and the unique Sunday market is a must. So I guess the community will band together to ensure that those matters happen."

Battersby says he's only speaking on behalf of himself, and not the board.