About Highlands – Experience the Exceptional
Highlands Motorsport Park is a state-of-the-art motorsport complex and visitor attraction near Cromwell in Central Otago, half an hour’s drive from Cromwell town and about 45 minutes from Queenstown . Opened in 2013 by entrepreneur Tony Quinn, this sprawling 88-hectare facility was built in roughly a year at a cost of around NZ$20–30 million . It boasts a full-length 3.1–4.0 km asphalt race circuit (with multiple shorter configurations, FIA Grade 3 certified) and is widely described as “world-class” . In addition to the main track, Highlands features a 48-bay ‘Gasoline Alley’ garage precinct, an indoor-outdoor motorsport museum, a 650 m outdoor go-kart circuit, an 18-hole themed mini-golf course, and a licensed café with a panoramic track-side deck . The ad slogan “Experience the Exceptional” reflects its ambition to offer more than just racing – visitors can see rare historic race cars, enjoy family activities and even admire the scenic Central Otago landscape from unique vantage points like the famous “Loo with a View” restroom . As a local tourism board notes, Highlands is “more than just a racing track” – it’s a motorsport country club nestled amid Central Otago hills, linking onto cycling trails and raising Cromwell’s profile as a destination . From its sweeping mountain backdrops, immaculate track design and high heritage of sports cars, Highlands has become a signature landmark in the region’s tourism and automotive culture.
Events and Programming
Highlands hosts all manner of events year-round. Although not a concert venue, the park’s calendar is packed with motorsport and automotive activities. Every Sunday (third Sunday monthly) it runs open “track laps” sessions with optional breakfast – casual mornings where guests can purchase laps around the circuit . It also stages multi-round racing series and track days, such as the Jackson Orchards Sprint Series and endurance races. In late 2023 Highlands marked its tenth anniversary by running a high-profile 6-hour endurance race featuring professional drivers like Shane van Gisbergen and Hayden Paddon . National-level events are now commonplace: for example, the prestigious New Zealand Grand Prix (for Formula Ford/NextGen cars) was scheduled at Highlands in early 2025, as part of the Repco NextGen championship . The park also occasionally hosts car club days, charity hot-lap adventures with guest drivers, and safety education events (e.g. the Youth-focused Street Smart initiative) which leverage the track for community causes. Regular public “U-Drive” experiences let visitors book laps in supercars and V8 sedans, so even on busy weekends there’s often a roster of behind-the-wheel experiences, demo laps and instructor-led races. Younger guests aren’t forgotten: Highlands offers a themed 18-hole mini-golf course, arcade racing simulators, and the award-winning National Motorsport Museum with interactive displays and a VR racing game . In short, week-to-week programming ranges from grassroots racing events to family activities. Notable recent highlights include the Liam Lawson Supercar Fast Dash event (a charity hot-lap event with racing star Liam Lawson) and annual youth driving challenge days. Most weekends in summer see at least one organized track event or tour, making Highlands an active hub of NZ motorsport. 售价 may vary by event; tiered pricing applies to racing lapped experiences and museum entry (for specifics, see Booking/Tickets below).
Tickets and Booking
There is no single “cover charge” for the park; instead, visitors pay per attraction or experience. Museum entry (the National Motorsport Museum) costs about NZ$30 for adults and $10 for children (5–16 yrs), with discounts for seniors and families . Importantly, booking any driving experience (such as supercar laps or karting) on the day entitles you to half-price museum admission . Attractions like go-karting sessions (10 minutes each) start around $49 per person . Specialty experiences range higher: for example, a one-lap Ferrari ride-along (“Supercar Fast Dash”) is about $179 (add-ons for extra laps), and group rides like the “Highlands Taxi” (Porsche Cayenne tour laps) start around $129 for up to four people . Pricing fluctuates by season and promotion. Bookings should be made via the Highlands official website or phone; walk-up slots may be available on slower days, but popular activities (especially in summer or holiday periods) often sell out well in advance. Advance booking also allows any group packages or weekday deals (for example, using promo codes on the website for family or combo offers). Note that there is no other external box office: tickets are controlled directly by Highlands. International tourists often pre-book online, but domestic visitors sometimes book on arrival, especially for less complicated activities like the mini-golf or museum. A useful tip is to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled experience to check in, as go-kart and supercar sessions require safety briefings and gear fitting . Cancellations and changes usually follow standard park policy; check when purchasing tickets. In summary, plan your visit by choosing the activities you want (museum, karting, supercars, etc.), book via the official Highlands platform, and note that even on-site you can pay for experiences and then enjoy half-priced museum entry the same day .
Seating and Viewing
Highlands has no fixed stadium seating like an arena; viewing is largely from open spectator areas. The centerpiece Café offers the best "seats": it has an expansive indoor-outdoor dining deck facing the main straight and track, with tables where visitors can eat and watch the racing action. Guests highly recommend grabbing a table on the café deck for free-ranging views of the circuit . Otherwise, grassy berms and paved sidings around the track serve as informal spectator zones. There’s also a tiered “Silver Fern” bank (sound-deadening rubble-terrain turned into a viewing mound) as one of the only allowed places for portable shade tents . For championship events Highlands may erect temporary spectator bleachers near corners, but for most public laps & demos you simply stand or picnic along the fence. Note that inside the paddock and garages is generally off-limits to the public unless you have a special garage pass. (Owners and drivers will be in “Gasoline Alley,” but spectators stay outside the safety fence around pit lane.) In short, best viewing spots are on the high café deck or along the front straight and turns visible from there, rather than on-track (unsafe). There is no formal “best seat” ticketing like a concert; all spectators in a public event share similar vantage points. Acoustics can be loud – the roar of V8s is thrilling but may startle children, so ear protection is advisable for families. On-track announcements and music are usually played over outdoor speaker systems. (Highlands does not run night events, so all racing is in daylight.) If attending a race meeting, arrive early to stake out a spot by the fence; for casual daytime visits you can roam freely once inside. Finally, areas to avoid include behind active pit garages (off limits) and crossing any fence line – always obey the marshals. Overall, with only a small permanent grandstand, Highlands encourages an unstructured spectator experience with plenty of room to spread out around the circuit.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Highlands is located at the southwest outskirts of Cromwell, at the corner of State Highway 6 and Sandflat Road (postcode 9384) . From Cromwell town centre (famous for its fruit orchards and the large “Big Fruit” sculptures), take Cemetery Road or SH6 north out of town and turn onto Sandflat Road as indicated. The entrance is well-marked by large motorsport signage (look also for a distinctive “automotive sculpture” at the turnoff). From Queenstown (45 min away), drive via Frankton/Cromwell bridge on SH6 or via the scenic Crown Range and Lake Dunstan route; from Wanaka (30 min), travel through Cromwell on SH8 or via Crown Range depending on season.
By Car: Driving is the most common way to reach Highlands. Facilities include a main car park at the museum and café complex (near Sandflat Road) which is free to use for guests. Event marshals will direct parking on race days, but ordinarily any visitor can park in the lot by the Highlands building. For large groups or trailers, designated trailer parking is provided off to the side – do not park trailers in the paddock/pit area . Rideshare or taxis should use the same main entry (Sandflat Road); there is a drop-off zone at the museum entrance. If arriving by coach or tour bus, Highlands staff can arrange a slow lap “commentary ride” around the track , and buses can park in the group lot.
By Shuttle/Bus: Public transport options are limited. InterCity coach buses run between Queenstown and Cromwell a few times daily – inquire locally. If you reach Cromwell town, you would then need a local taxi (or ride-share) for the final 6 km to Highlands. There is no direct train or metro service; the nearest airport is Queenstown Airport. For a last mile, Cromwell-area taxis and rental cars are available in town.
Parking Tips: On major race weekends expect lots of traffic. Seasonal park hours are 8:00–18:00 in summer and 9:00–17:30 in winter (for the track); the visitor centre opens 10:00–16:00 . Follow signs and staff directions; cars parked illegally (blocking lanes or paddock areas) may be fined or towed . In short: plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before any event or booked experience, park in the museum/ café lot, and note that competitors use Cemetery Road gate, while general spectators enter via Sandflat Road . Phone reception is generally good, so using GPS navigation (via address or coordinates) will get you on track – literally!
Inside the Venue
Arrival and Security: When you enter Highlands you will likely pass through an entry gate or reception booth at the museum or café. For casual visits, you check in at the Museum or Café counter for tickets. For booked activities (like a supercar lap or kart session), staff will meet you with a wristband or check-in sheet. Note that if you carry a bag, it may be searched at the gate, especially on alcohol-related events – outside alcohol is not allowed . Highlands observes NZ laws on alcohol: beer and wine for sale at the café, but no BYO liquor . Pets are generally not permitted on site, as the noise scares animals . Drones may not be flown without prior permission and a submitted flight plan . The overall atmosphere is informal and family-friendly, with visitors of all ages. Staff are usually in team polo shirts and are happy to answer questions or guide you to your activity.
Facilities and Amenities: The central hub inside Highlands is the Museum and Café building. The museum’s lobby sells tickets, souvenirs and Highlands merchandise (branded hats, model cars, etc.). Inside, the National Motorsport Museum displays legendary cars (from a Schumacher F1 car to classic rally machines) under polished lighting . Adjacent is the “Young Guns” virtual reality room (included with museum admission) where visitors can do virtual hot laps with Kiwi racing stars . Restrooms are plentiful – notably the “Loo with a View” below the café deck, a series of themed toilet stalls each with one-way glass facing the track . (This quirky restroom was installed in 2021 and doubles as an art/awareness evangelist for prostate cancer fundraising .) The café itself is fully licensed and offers local Central Otago fare at reasonable prices . It has a full food menu available roughly 10:00–14:00 daily, plus coffee, beer and wine throughout the day . The outdoor deck has tables and umbrellas – arguably the best “seating” in the park to watch racing while enjoying food or a drink. For children or families, there is a small playground and the mini-golf course just outside the cafe. Most areas of the grounds (except the track tarmac and pit garages) are wheelchair-accessible; there are wheelchair-friendly ramps and disabled toilet stalls in the Museum/Café complex (as required by NZ standards).
Inside an Event: If you’re attending a race meet or track day, expect some extra features. Highlands stands and VIP suites are erected near pit straight; sometimes portable food/drink stalls appear. There is no coat check or bag storage, so carry only essentials. Photography (non-commercial) is typically allowed – many visitors take photos by the track or museum exhibits. Merchandise booths (sponsored or team merchandise) sometimes appear for big events. The engineers’ garage tents (“Gasoline Alley”) are visible through fencing, but you can only see the cars; do not enter unless invited. Otherwise, Highland’s safety and first-aid teams will be around during events to assist with any concerns. All in all, inside the park you’ll find a relaxed but safety-conscious racing atmosphere: weigh your kids and keep them near, hold hands crossing from the museum to the stands (if a race is on), and listen for flag or PA announcements. Drinking is permitted only in designated areas and at the café bar; don’t bring outside beverages. If you have booked a driving experience, the staff will provide helmets, hair nets and basic gear, so you just need your overalls (no loose clothing or jewellery) . Finally, expect Highlands to be clean and orderly – it operates with a high tourism standard (it has a Qualmark gold rating as a sustainable attraction ), so you can find rubbish bins, clear signage inside, and friendly staff everywhere.
Nearby Amenities
While Highlands has its own café, visitors may wish to know about facilities in nearby Cromwell. The town centre (15 km east) has grocery stores (Pak’nSave), coffee shops, bakeries, and a pharmacy if needed. Numerous restaurants and pubs are in downtown Cromwell: for example the Lakefront Brews boutique pub, the Genesis Restaurant (Italian), and River Café by the lake. (There is also a famed steakhouse and wineries within 5–10 min drive.) For coffee lovers, Cromwell’s Patchwork Café and Brownie & Blaine are popular pick-me-ups. Cromwell’s square features fruit-themed statuary (e.g. the famous Big Banana and Cherry) and souvenir shops. Bars like The Local Bar serve drinks and small plates if you linger late. Overnight lodging is available: Cromwell has motels and holiday parks on Lake Dunstan, and Queenstown or Wanaka (each 45–60 min away) offer hotels, B&Bs and Airbnb-style lodgings. Don’t forget to arrive reasonably early (30–60 min before any booked time) so you can check in, use facilities, and avoid traffic. Note that after evening events, the town quiets down early; local taxis or rideshare services should be booked in advance for return to Queenstown/Wanaka. Public toilets in Cromwell are limited late at night, so if you need refreshment before or after Highlands, it’s safest to stick to the Highlands Café or the Cromwell service station (open late) for restroom use. In short: Cromwell provides additional dining and drinking options, but for a genuine “Highlands experience,” the on-site café (with track view) and museum gift shop cover most visitor needs.
What Makes This Venue Special
Highlands stands out due to its unique combination of high-adrenaline motorsport and family-friendly attractions in one spectacular setting. Architecturally, it was built to impress: set into rolling Otago hills, the track weaves around an ornamental lake and vineyard, giving every corner a postcard scenery feel . The facility’s race track itself is world-class – very few circuits in New Zealand can match its length, variety of turns and quality of tarmac. It even has elevation changes and sweeping curves designed to be challenging for drivers. The main straight parallels the café and museum, so fans sipping Pinot on the deck feel like they’re part of a racing movie. Highland’s collection of rare cars (from a $4.2 million Aston Martin Vulcan to classic F1 and rally cars) is unique in NZ . The comedic and stylish “Loo with a View” toilet block (opened in 2021) has become a social media legend – a Rolls-Royce-adorned restroom with live action piano urinals selling photos online, with every visitor encouraged to donate for prostate cancer . Culturally, Highlands has put Cromwell on the motorsport map; it’s now a must-see stop for car enthusiasts travelling South. Famous racing personalities frequent the park (the owner even has racing legend Jim Richards do inaugural laps ), and it’s raised local pride. Highlands also showcases Kiwi innovation – much of the landscaping (sound berms, lakes) and buildings (a glass-fronted Pit Conference Room with seating for 300) were custom-designed . For communities, Highlands has donated back: the AMD and TQ Foundations based here support young drivers, and creative events like Easter egg hunts and disabled racing grants start from Highlands’ profits . Famous performances per se (like concerts) are not part of its DNA, but it has hosted star drivers and televised events – a 6-hour endurance race in 2023 was broadcast on Sky Sports . In summary, what makes Highlands special is its character: a blend of “petrolhead paradise” and family outing, all enveloped in architecturally striking facilities. The local community loves it for tourism dollars and charity, while race teams love its fast, well-maintained track. As one reviewer put it, Highlands really does “cater to everyone... from kids racing go-karts to people sipping wine watching GT cars on track” .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Highlands is designed with accessibility in mind. Most paths are paved and wheelchair-friendly, including access from the main parking lot to the Museum/Café. There are ramps and lifts (e.g. in the pit conference building) to reach elevated viewing areas. Disabled parking spaces are available near the museum entrance. Accessible restrooms are provided, including ground-floor stalls at the café. If you have specific mobility needs (wheelchair rental, assistance), call ahead as Highlands staff can arrange help.
What to Bring: Gear up comfortably for the outdoors and racing excitement. Wear closed-toe shoes (required for go-karts and any driving experience – no sandals or heels are allowed) . Dress in layers: Central Otago sun can be intense, and mornings may be cool even in summer. Bring a hat and sunscreen. If you are booked for a hot-lap or kart session, you will be fitted with a hairnet and helmet, so long hair should be tied up. If photographing on the straight, consider ear protection (little ears especially). It’s wise to carry cash or card for souvenirs, though cafés and the museum take cards. Also bring your driver’s license and insurance details if you plan to drive a race car. A fully charged camera/phone will let you capture the action easily.
What Not to Bring: Personal alcohol is banned and will be confiscated if brought in . Outside food is discouraged (you can eat in the café or picnic on grassy areas but no infield BBQs). Large drones or kites are not allowed without permission . Don’t bring pets – animals react badly to engine noise .
Age and Health Restrictions: Kids under 16 cannot drive any vehicles; racing passengers under 10 (or under 140 cm) usually cannot participate in go-karting . All drivers must generally be at least 16 years old, hold a full NZ (or international) driving licence, and have liability insurance (weapons sports cars are no place for learner drivers) . Children under 16 must be supervised at all times; they are not allowed in the pit lane on race days . There are no general age restrictions for spectators – families with children of any age are welcome, though young children should be watched carefully near track barriers. Highland’s facilities (like museum exhibits) are family-friendly and have fun elements (e.g. arcade simulators) for all ages .
Rules and Policies: Observe all posted signage: do not climb fences, enter restricted areas, or mark the asphalt in paddock . Smoking is allowed only in designated outdoor areas ( vaping too). Subject to NZ law, you must drink responsibly if you buy alcohol there. Obey speed limits in paddock areas and keep to paths. Children are not to cycle or run on pit lane . If camping is offered (rarely at special events), you must pre-book it. Highlands has quiet hours (engines off by late evening) to respect neighbours .
Useful Tips: Arrive early for parking and to check insurance (for racers). Don’t forget cash donations for the “loo with a view” charity boxes if you use it – every dollar goes to prostate cancer research . Take the short walk from café to the Museum – the entrance is adjacent. If you want a track-side photo, the fenced viewing area in front of the pit garage building is perfect. For the go-kart track, arrive 30 min early to suit up (the site notes this wait time) . For dining, the Highlands Café serves lunch from 10–2 on weekdays, but at weekends lines can be long – consider arriving either earlier morning or in the late afternoon. Finally, check the weather forecast: Highlands’ high country sky can change quickly, so bring a rain jacket if rain is forecast (though most events still run in light rain). By planning ahead with these tips, your visit will be safe, smooth and memorable.
What are your opening hours?
Highlands is open daily year-round. Visitor attractions (museum, café, mini-golf) operate about 10 am–4 pm, 7 days a week . The circuit itself is open from 8 am–6 pm in summer (and 9 am–5:30 pm in winter) . It’s best to arrive shortly after opening to allow time for check-in and activities.
Do I need tickets or reservations?
Yes. While casual visits (for the café or walking mini-golf) are walk-in friendly, most activities require booking. You should reserve tickets for driving experiences and museum entry via the Highlands website or phone. Walk-up availability exists off-peak, but popular attractions (like go-karting or supercar laps) often sell out. Book ahead especially on weekends. A payoff: booking an experience on the day gives you 50% off museum entry .
How much do tickets cost?
Museum admission is roughly NZ$30 for an adult and NZ$10 for a child (5–16 years) . Family pricing is available (about $60 for two adults + three kids). Race experiences range widely: e.g. go-karting starts at ~$49 for a 10-minute driver session . A one-lap hot-lap ride in a supercar is around $179, and more elaborate multi-lap packages exceed $400 . Park entry itself is free; you pay per activity ticket only.
Where are you located and how can I get there?
Highlands is at Corner SH6 & Sandflat Road in Cromwell (central Otago). It’s about a 45-minute drive from Queenstown, or 30 minutes from Wanaka via Cromwell. Go by car on State Highway 6, turning onto Sandflat Road at the Highlands sign. Buses: some coach services stop in Cromwell town (near the lake), but you’d then need a taxi for the last 5 km to the track. There’s no direct train. The nearest airport is Queenstown (a transfer can be arranged).
Is parking available, and is there a fee?
Yes. Free parking is available on site. Just follow directions onto the Highlands property and park in the main lot near the museum/café. On event days, parking may be staff-directed, but generally visitors park on the paved lot. There are no parking fees for public visitors. Please use the designated trailers spot if you have a car trailer . Do not park along gate roads or in restricted (No Parking) zones, or you may be towed .
What are the best places to sit or watch?
The best “seat” is from the Highlands Café deck – it has tables overlooking the main straight, so you can watch racing with food or coffee. Otherwise, any area along the fence by the pit garages or turns is good. Spectators are free to stand around the perimeter fences. (On serious race days, portable stands may appear near key turns, but generally there is no reserved seating.) Bring a blanket or portable chair if you like. Avoid standing on paved track edges when cars are active—stick behind the safety fences. The grassy embankments and café deck easily fit families for an informal view of the circuit.
Can I bring food or alcohol?
You may bring snacks or lunch, but outside alcohol is strictly forbidden . Highlands has a fully licensed café selling local wines, beer and soft drinks , so plan to buy beverages on site. Picnic areas are available on the lawns, but any personal cooler should not contain alcoholic beverages. In summary: BYO alcohol is not allowed, and bags may be searched at the gate for compliance.
Are cameras or drones allowed?
Photographs for personal use are allowed throughout Highlands (people often snap cars or the track). Professional filming requires permission. Drones require a flight plan submitted 3 weeks in advance . So bring a camera, but do not launch a drone unless you have prior approval and insurance. Note that at any time, crossing spectator barriers to retrieve a device is unsafe and not permitted.
Is the park accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the main areas are accessible. The visitor centre, museum, café and toilets have wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities. Paved paths connect parking to the entrance. Viewing the track from the café deck is also wheelchair-friendly. (The only inaccessible zones are the active track/garage areas, which are fenced off.) If you have specific needs, Highlands can provide assistance – contact them beforehand for any special arrangements.
What is the dress code?
There is no formal dress code, but practical attire is recommended. Wear comfortable, casual clothes and closed shoes. If you plan to drive a kart or race car, you must wear long pants and closed shoes (no sandals or shorts). Many visitors bring a light jacket or sunscreen depending on the weather. In winter it can get cold, so dress warmly. Business-casual attire is fine at the café and museum. For evening events the same applies – just avoid heels on gravel surfaces.
Are there age or height restrictions?
Yes. Drivers must be at least 16 years old with a valid licence; kids under 16 cannot operate vehicles . Go-kart minimum driver age is 10 (and at least 140cm tall), with tandem karts for adult+child (child 6+ and 120cm tall) . Children under 13 are not allowed in the track paddock. All children under 16 must be supervised by an adult. . There’s no general age limit for viewing the venue – families are welcome and the museum has activities suitable for young kids.
Is there Wi-Fi available?
Yes. Highland’s visitor center and café offer free Wi-Fi for guests. You’ll find good mobile coverage across the complex too, so you can post photos or check schedules while at the park.
What is the Loo with a View?
The “Loo with a View” is Highlands’ famous track-side toilet exhibit. Opened in 2021, it’s a themed restroom block where each unit has floor-to-ceiling glass looking out over the racetrack . One stall is lavishly decorated (the “Royal Suite”), others have motorsport or musical themes. It’s free to use (donations collected go to prostate cancer research) . Many visitors consider it a must-see for photos!
Can I take a guided tour or do a track walk?
Guided track walks are not a regular offering, but Highlands occasionally runs special days open to car club members or charity walks. However, public access onto the track surface is never allowed when a session is running. You are free to walk around spectator areas though. Contact Highlands’ events team if you’re interested in a special guided experience – sometimes they accommodate groups off-session for safaris or behind-the-scenes tours.
Is it suitable for young children?
Very much so. Families with young kids visit Highlands regularly. There’s a playground near the café deck and a fun kids’ mini-golf course. The museum is interactive (reaction-tester games, VR racing) which children enjoy. Note, though, that children should be kept away from the track fence unless supervised. For go-karts there are safe tandem karts so kids can ride with an adult. And kids under 16 are not admitted to the pit lane. Overall, plan ahead and bring ear-cup hearing protection for little ones if a live race is happening.
