Black type performer Endean Rose begins her quest for higher honours at Hastings on Saturday.

While part-owner and trainer Iain Kennedy is viewing the Bostock New Zealand Spring Carnival Opener as a means to an end, he is thrilled with the mare’s condition.

“She has come back great and she’s a lot stronger now,” he said. “She’s only just stopped growing.”

Endean Rose showed her quality last preparation when she finished runner-up in the Gr.2 Travis Stakes at Te Rapa, beating home Group One winners Sofia Rosa, Thee Auld Floozie and Charmont in the process.

The daughter of Savabeel was put aside after one more outing and has returned with a Group One goal in mind.

“Her main aim is the Livamol, obviously she’s down the list at the moment but we have to have her ready for it,” Kennedy said.

Endean Rose is currently 23rd in order of entry to the October 7 feature.

“She’s never been great first-up and she’s always improved with a run and we need to get her going,” Kennedy said. “Having said that though, I am happy with her.

“After Saturday we have the option of going back to Hastings on the second day for a 2000 metre race or going to Pukekohe for the Listed mile.”

The latter event is the Haunui Farm Karaka Classic, a race won last year by Willie Cazals on his way to Livamol success.

Endean Rose will be ridden on Saturday by Cameron Lammas, who won the South Waikato Cup on the mare in the autumn.