There's little doubt for Matamata trainer Graham Richardson that Tiptronic will be a far superior racehorse as a four-year-old when he strengthens and matures and irons out the chinks in his armour.

But that's not to say the O'Reilly gelding won't yet get his chance to chase a Classic win as a three-year-old.

Tiptronic resumes in Saturday's Triton Pacific Owens Plate (1300m) at Tauranga, the first time he has raced since finishing a narrow second to Swissta in the Gr.2 Great Northern Guineas (1600m) at Ellerslie when gallopers the quality of Jon Snow, Cha Siu Bao and Romancer were among the chasing division.

"It was a really good run that day. He's still very green and he's got a lot to learn. He probably cost himself any chance of winning by gawking around in the straight," Richardson said.

Leading in to just his fifth start at Tauranga, Tiptronic had developed with his late summer break from racing but could still find 1300m too short on Saturday, Richardson said.

"We identified this race as a suitable assignment for him and we've kept him fresh because of this race," Richardson said.

"He's looking for more ground but he'll go a nice race. His work on Tuesday was very good."

So what is Tiptronic's ideal trip in the eyes of his trainer?

"I'd say 2400m," Richardson said, raising the possibility of a winter tilt at the Gr.1 Queensland Derby at that distance at Eagle Farm on June 10.

"We've got a couple of options to assess and Brisbane is one of those. We'll just see how he goes on Saturday first."

Richardson will head to Tauranga with a team of five. Joining Tiptronic are Wildflower, Mahalo, Four Degrees and Contessa Belle.