Matthew Cartwright is preparing for a return to New Zealand with a clear goal — to avoid the dreaded second-season slump and build on the momentum he gained in his debut campaign.

The 22-year-old Victorian jockey heads back across the Tasman after a morale-boosting Caulfield win on Pop Award, trained by his mother Leonie Proctor and grandmother Lyn Tolson.

Cartwright expects a tougher riding scene this time around, with the return of big names like Opie Bosson making competition fierce.

“It’s looking like it’s going to be competitive over there with a few of the riders coming back, but I’m ready to get over there and work hard,” he said.

He believes existing relationships with several stables will give him an edge.

“New Zealand, in general, has been good for me… I feel like I’m a better person and going to be a better rider going into next season.”

Cartwright has ridden over 50 winners in New Zealand this season, including a breakthrough Group 1 win aboard Grail Seeker in the Tarzino Trophy.