About TECT – Tauranga Motorcycle Club
TECT – Tauranga Motorcycle Club is an outdoor motocross facility in the Bay of Plenty. Situated in the TECT All Terrain Park (near Ngawaro, off SH36) (www.tectpark.co.nz ), it serves as the home track for the Tauranga Motorcycle Club. Unlike a traditional stadium, it’s a purpose-built off-road motorcycle circuit set in a natural open landscape. There are no permanent grandstands – spectators stand or sit on banks and grassy hillsides around the course. While there’s no official capacity number, race days often draw a large crowd (observers note the finish gate “packed” with hundreds of riders and spectators) (www.thedirt.co.nz ). The venue includes both a full-size senior motocross track and a protected smaller “mini” track for children (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). It’s well known locally: the club itself was founded in 1949 to channel young riders into organised events (www.trials.nz ), and its history of hosting beach scrambles and reliability trials makes it a cornerstone of Tauranga’s motorcycle sports scene. Over the decades the club has produced many champions (Cody Cooper, Stefan Merriman, Dixie Dean and others) (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ), so this venue is often called the region’s “breeding ground of champions.”
Events and Programming
Motocross is the primary activity here. The Tauranga Motorcycle Club runs a regular racing series through spring, summer and autumn – typically a race round one Sunday each month with practice sessions on Saturdays (one report notes a new schedule of “one Sunday per month” racing after opening the track) (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Events range from local club rounds to large regional meets. For example, the club’s 2025–26 summer series includes rounds in December 2025 and March 2026 (www.mxt.co.nz ). In addition, the facility hosts high-profile competitions: in fact, the venue was chosen to host a round of the Yamaha New Zealand Motocross Championship (Round 3, 21 Feb 2026) (www.mxt.co.nz ). Junior and school events are also common – past programs have included a Tauranga Schools Motocross Challenge and National Junior races. Generally you’ll find a mix of age categories (minis, juniors, seniors) and skill levels, all on the same track. Non-racing events can include practice days on weekends and fun runs or training sessions. Note that the club’s site often lists results and schedules (see for instance their news pages or local motorcycling bulletin boards). Ticket prices for spectators are typically modest (often just a small gate fee or donation), and riders pay either an MNZ (Motorcycling NZ) license fee or a one-day permit (approximately NZ$25) (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Exact event details and pricing vary, so it’s best to watch the club’s official announcements or Motorcycling NZ calendar for each event.
Tickets and Booking
There is no central box office for this club-run venue; race entries and tickets are handled by the club and MNZ. In practice, riders and spectators usually register in advance or on race day. Competitive riders must sign up through Motorcycling NZ (MNZ) – an annual license or a one-day license is required (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). These licenses (around $25 for a day license) can be purchased online via MNZ or at race registration. For casual club events, the club often uses an online entry system (see MX Timing listings, for example, which show entry deadlines and fees for each round (www.mxt.co.nz )). Spectators usually just pay at the gate – often a small flat fee (roughly $5–$20), with discounts for children or no charge for very young kids. There are sometimes early-bird or pre-sale deals announced on the club’s social channels. Membership in the Tauranga Motorcycle Club isn’t needed just to watch, but members do get race discounts and voting rights. The key tip for popular events is to follow the Tauranga Motorcycle Club’s website or newsletter – they post fixtures and ticketing instructions as events approach. For the big national rounds, tickets may also appear on MotoNZ’s event page; however, even those follow a simple door-sale format rather than complex ticketing platforms. In short: to see a race, plan to arrive early on race day and pay at the venue, and if you want to ride, be sure to register and get your MNZ license or day permit well in advance (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ) (www.mxt.co.nz ).
Seating and Layout
The venue is entirely outdoors, laid out on uneven farmland. There are no fixed seats or VIP boxes – everyone watches from open areas. The main motocross track snakes through farmland, with high-banked turns, rollers and jumps. A smaller adjacent mini-track is set aside for younger riders (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Spectators can stand along much of the course; often parents position themselves on grassy banks or mounds for a view. To improve sightlines, the club has built gentle spectator slopes near key points (for example, at the new track entrance and big jumps, “easy-access slopes” were added so parents could stand up and watch) (www.thedirt.co.nz ). Hosts and announcers usually set up near the start/finish area, which is an open car-park-level paddock. If you want the “best spot,” the finish line hill and the corners just beyond the start line are popular (you get a view of riders both on jumps and accelerating out). In practice, “general admission” seating means standing room around fences. Note that the mini (kids’) track is fenced off – parents can watch from a small grandstand by the mini-start or from the gravel parking area adjacent to it. Given there’s no cover, many spectators bring camp chairs, blankets or folding seats. One advantage: riders often don’t obstruct the view on corners, since most landings face the center rather than blocking each other. Acoustically it’s just the roar of bikes in the open air, so bring ear protection. Also expect dust: when it’s dry the track throws up dirt, so upwind spots can get dusty. Unobstructed visibility means there are no “bad seats” in terms of sightline, but you’ll simply be standing or sitting on grass, so dress for the weather and comfort.
Getting There and Parking
TECT Park lies about halfway between Tauranga and Rotorua on State Highway 36 (Pyes Pa Road). Follow SH36 from Tauranga for roughly 26–29 km to the Ngawaro area (www.westernbay.govt.nz ) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Turn off SH36 onto Whataroa Road (signposted “TECT Park”) to reach the main entrance. GPS coordinates for the park entrance are about S37°56.764 E176°09.111 (www.tectpark.co.nz ), but simple navigation by “TECT Park, Pyes Pa Road” works decently. From downtown Tauranga it’s approximately a 30–40 minute drive (most on open highway). If coming from Rotorua, it’s about 35–40 km along Karangahake Highway then SH36. Public transit is impractical – no regular bus goes this far out. The closest Baybus routes stop in Pyes Pa Township, after which you would need a taxi or rideshare (e.g. Uber) for the remaining 5–10 km. Rideshares can drop off at the arrival center gate on Whataroa Road – just tell the driver “TECT Park, Whataroa Road entrance.”
Parking is plentiful and free. There is a large car park at the TECT Park Arrival Centre (the main park entrance) (www.westernbay.govt.nz ), which is the same area used for track events. On race days this lot fills up, and overflow parking (nearby paddocks) is used. If you arrive very late it may be tight, but race schedules generally allow arriving earlier. For big events the club often leaves trailbike racks or fenced pit areas near the start/finish paddock – you can park trailers, and there is space for several dozen cars. Remember the park’s perimeter gates lock at night, so plan to have left before dusk if you drove far (www.tectpark.co.nz ).
Inside the Venue
The motocross venue itself is basically open-air. Entry is via a main gate at the Arrival Centre, where officials will check tickets or collect entry fees. You may see a small registration building (known locally as the “sign-on building”) near the pits; this new clubhouse was built for storing gear and race paperwork (www.thedirt.co.nz ). Aside from that, most of the site is bare: the riders’ compound has some tents and trailers on grass. Security is minimal – it’s a friendly family club atmosphere; just follow any marshal instructions. The vibe is casual and friendly: normal outdoor sports event with dust and motor noise in the air. You’ll hear race announcements through a P.A. system, usually from the main paddock.
Facilities are basic but adequate. There is no large indoor foyer or grandstand. The main covered shelter is the Arrival Centre building (a classroom-sized barn in the park) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). That centre has a scenic view and even offers a few picnic tables and an electric BBQ for visitors (www.tectpark.co.nz ). It also supplies sheltered restrooms – in fact, the Bay of Plenty council notes “plenty of wharepaku (toilets) located around the park” (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Typically, race events will encourage use of the Arrival Centre toilets or portable toilets near the pits. There are no permanent concession stands at the track itself, but larger events often have a sausage sizzle or coffee van set up by volunteers. Plan to pack your own snacks or grab something before leaving town. The park centre also has a water tap, so having a reusable bottle can be handy.
No formal coat check or cloakroom exists – just bring what you need. The crews sometimes sell club merchandise (T-shirts or caps) at the registration table. Expect strong cellphone coverage here, so mobile tickets and GPS work fine. One thing to note: the track is very loud when engines fire up, so spectators should use ear protection, especially for children. Also, bikes often run on unleaded fuel mixed with oil – be mindful around fuel jerrycans and keep kids back from engine heat. Otherwise, bring a hat, sunscreen and a comfy chair, and enjoy the open-air, rustic setting. Keep an eye on little ones near the track perimeter; fences are just low tape lines or breeze blocks at best. But overall, it’s a relaxed, community atmosphere inside the venue.
Nearby Amenities
Immediate food and lodging options are sparse around TECT Park itself, since it’s a rural reserve. The nearest shops and services are in Tauranga or the townships nearby. For a pre-show meal, consider stopping in Greerton Village (about 15 km north on SH36) or the Pyes Pa area (about 8 km north) – both have cafés and petrol stations. Tauranga city centre is roughly 25–30 minutes’ drive away and offers full amenities (supermarkets, restaurants, pubs, etc.). There is no on-site restaurant, so if you want dinner or post-race drinks, you’ll either need to pack a picnic or drive back into town.
If you need to stay overnight, the closest accommodation is in Tauranga (hotels and motels near the CBD or waterfront). For a more outdoors experience, note that TECT Park has a designated freedom camping area with dump station (“Penny” KiwiCamp facility) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). However, this is intended for self-contained campers and is separate from the motorcycle venue – it’s mainly near the mountain bike/carpark area of the park. Local holiday parks (in Ongare Point or Matakana Island) are also options if you cross the Tauranga Harbour. On busy race weekends, many families simply make it a day trip, finishing up by late afternoon and driving home.
In terms of travel on the day: there are no late-night transit or shuttle buses, so ensure your ride-share or taxi can pick you up after the event. If leaving in the evening, remember that the park gates close at dusk (www.tectpark.co.nz ), so plan to exit well before dark. Otherwise, the nearby roads (SH36 and Pyes Pa Road) are well lit to at least Greerton. Overall, expect a “bring-your-own” attitude: pack water, snacks, and anything you’ll need in the hours you’re at the track, and you’ll be fine.
What Makes This Venue Special
TECT – Tauranga Motorcycle Club is unique in several ways. Firstly, it’s set in the midst of a multi-use adventure park – officially an “award-winning taonga” of the Western Bay region (www.tectpark.co.nz ) – so the scenery is unusually natural for a motocross track. Pine forests, native bush and farmland surround the circuit, and there’s even a historical rail tunnel and a glow-worm track nearby. This blend of wild landscape and high-octane racing is a draw. The track itself was carefully designed by club volunteers: its sandy-loam soil is said to be “well-draining” and forgiving (www.thedirt.co.nz ), meaning it rarely turns into mud. Reviewers praise the layout – noting dozens of line choices through each corner to keep racing interesting (www.thedirt.co.nz ). In fact, one motocross blogger remarked that after a few years of development the facility “blossomed into something that would rival even top international tracks” (www.thedirt.co.nz ), (www.thedirt.co.nz ). This quality has helped the club attract big races, including national championships for junior riders and as part of the NZ Motocross series.
Another special aspect is the club’s legacy. Tauranga Motorcycle Club began in the late 1940s as part of the region’s classic motorcycling origins (www.trials.nz ). By opening a permanent home track in 2015, they fulfilled a long-held dream (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ), making it a landmark moment celebrated by the community. Grass-roots history is everywhere: photos of early beach scrambles (Papamoa sand races) and rally trials (from as far away as Waitomo) adorn some club huts, honoring generations of riders. The club’s motto is about families and future champions – so you might see multi-generation families spectating or small riders racing on the mini-track. All this contributes to a friendly, down-to-earth culture. On any race day you’ll hear both international moto pro stories (coming out of this club) and local banter off the “dirt bikes and beer” vibe – a living slice of Tauranga’s sporting life.
Certain moments have become part of local legend. For instance, the official opening in 2015 featured Tauranga’s mayor cutting the ribbon alongside the Western Bay mayor (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ) – the first time an international-standard track was blessed by civic leaders. Rider camaraderie is also a big draw here: winning a local trophy or even a club race here means joining a long list of famous names (Cody Cooper, Dixie Dean, and more) who got their start at Tauranga. In short, riders love this venue because the track is world-class and challenging (www.thedirt.co.nz ), while audiences love it because it’s heartfelt community spirit in a scenic setting. There truly is nothing else like it in the Bay: it combines rural charm with full-throttle motocross action.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The park has some accessible facilities, but remember this is a rough outdoor site. The Arrival Centre building is wheelchair-accessible (www.spacetoco.com ) and has wheelchair-friendly paths, and some toilets at the centre are accessible. Beyond that, the motocross area is uneven grass and gravel. If you need ramps or hard-surface viewing, the easiest spot is the metal deck around the Arrival Centre steps or the paved car park area. Otherwise, people often stand along compacted dirt paths that run beside parts of the track.
**Gear and Dress:** Wear layers and sturdy shoes. It can be hot in the sun and cool in the shade or evenings. Sun and dust are constant, so bring sunblock (and hats/helmets off-track) and perhaps goggles or a scarf for dust. Since it’s a motorsport venue, closed-toe footwear is a must (no sandals). If you plan to ride, the club follows Motorcycling NZ rules: *all riders must have a long-sleeve jersey, long pants, motocross boots, and an approved helmet* (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Note that helmet camera mounts or other protrusions are prohibited (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Helmets must be full MX-legal; the announcers will check them at sign-on. It’s wise for every spectator (especially kids) to bring ear protection, as bikes are loud even in open air. If you own goggles or a handkerchief, they’ll help keep dust out of your eyes on windy days.
**Planning Ahead:** Check the event schedule before you go. Race dates are usually announced months in advance. Confirm on the club’s site or Facebook for any last-minute changes (e.g. weather cancellations). During summer, arrive early; parking and pits fill up quickly by mid-morning. There’s no ticket scanning, but bring cash (or be ready to Venmo the organizer) if payment is due at the gate. The park’s gates close at night (www.tectpark.co.nz ), so plan to leave before sundown; lingering too late isn’t allowed. If rain is in the forecast, remember the track is on sandy soil and often dries out fast, but very heavy rain can still delay events. If in doubt, call the club or check their alerts page – they generally update track status on race day. (www.tectpark.co.nz )
**Family and Kids:** This is a very family-friendly spot if your kids like motorbikes. There’s a dedicated kids’ course (visible from the car park) and a 500m beginner loop (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Kids under 12 on small wheels can use the beginner and mini tracks; bigger bikes must stay on the main track (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Always supervise children near the active track. Aside from motocross, the rest of TECT Park has walking trails, playground areas and a dog exercise zone nearby, so families sometimes make a day of it (the Council even calls it an ‘adrenaline junkie’s dream’ for users of all ages (www.tectpark.co.nz )).
**Prohibitions:** No quad bikes or four-wheelers are allowed on any of the motorcycle tracks at TECT Park (www.tectpark.co.nz ). The rules also forbid unlicensed riding on the main track – you must be MNZ-licensed to race (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ) (practice days are an exception (www.taurangamcc.co.nz )). Drones are generally not permitted during events (safety risk). The park disallows hunting or firearms (even though there are shooting clubs elsewhere in the park) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Outside food is fine to bring, but glass bottles are discouraged; park bylaws also require dogs to stay either in parked vehicles or on a leash, and not roam near racing areas. As for personal items, think like you would for any outdoor sports event: bag checks are not usual, but lock your car if you leave valuables inside.
**Local Lingo:** You might hear locals say “carpark” for parking lot, “licence” for motorcycle racing licence, or toss around names like “Pyes Pa” (the road) and “Ngawaro” (area). They also mix Māori and English – for example, “wharepaku” means toilet (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Slang like “MX” means motocross, “jitters” or “jit” might refer to nervousness, etc. But most visitors get by just fine with plain talk. The staff and riders are friendly – if you’re uncertain about rules or need a suggestion, just ask any committee member (they often wear branded shirts). They’re usually happy to explain.
Following these tips will help you enjoy the day. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a rain jacket just in case. Double-check any particular event instructions (classes, start times) before arrival. And remember, it’s dirt bike country – expect a bit of mud or dust, plenty of adrenaline, and a relaxed club atmosphere. With the right preparation, a visit to TECT – Tauranga Motorcycle Club can be a smooth, fun experience for riders and fans alike.
Where exactly is TECT – Tauranga Motorcycle Club located?
The track is inside TECT All Terrain Park on State Highway 36 (Pyes Pa Road), near Ngawaro in the Western Bay of Plenty. It’s about 26–29 km from Tauranga city centre (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Look for the Whataroa Road turnoff (signed “TECT Park”). GPS keys off SH36 work best. There is no bus service directly to the park, so you’ll need to drive or taxi.
What is the parking situation and is there an entry fee?
ECT Park provides a large free car park at the Arrival Centre (the main entrance) (www.westernbay.govt.nz ). On race days, officials may direct overflow parking in nearby paddocks, but it’s all free. Most club race events charge a small entry fee for riders and spectators at the gate (often in the range of NZ$5–$15). The fee covers course upkeep and permits. There’s no on-site turnstile – just pay the club officials as you enter. For major national rounds, ticket details may be announced in advance online, but generally you can pay on arrival.
What is the seating and viewing setup at the venue?
There are no fixed seats or grandstands here. Spectators stand or sit on open ground along the track. The club has built gentle baby-bleacher slopes (for example at the start gate) to improve views (www.thedirt.co.nz ). Best viewing spots include the finish-line bank and the corners past the start, where you can see takeoffs and landings. The mini track (for kids) has a small fenced spectator area near it. Bring a folding chair or mat if you want – it’s all grass or dirt. The venue is general admission, so lines are open and you can move around freely to different vantage points.
How do I get tickets for events at Tauranga Motorcycle Club?
For club events, there usually isn’t a formal ticket system. Instead, race entries and spectator fees are handled at the gate. If you want to ride, you generally register online through MNZ (Motorcycling NZ) or the club’s race-entry system in advance (see MX Timing listings for example) (www.mxt.co.nz ). Spectators typically pay on arrival at the track (signing a waiver in the pits). Keep an eye on the club’s website or Facebook page for each event’s details. Prices are modest – often a flat fee – but vary with event size. For big national series races, check MNZ’s announcements, but usually you can still just show up with a valid race license or buy a day-license for racing (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ).
Do I need a license to ride at TECT Park?
Yes. To participate in sanctioned races, you must have a Motorcycling NZ (MNZ) licence – either an annual licence or a one-day licence (about NZ$25) (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Clubs enforce this strictly for race meetings. However, for practice days or casual riding on the track, no licence is required (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Note that MNZ also requires all racers to wear full protective gear (helmet, boots, etc.) (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). If you’re just visiting as a fan, you do not need a licence.
Are children allowed, and is there a kids’ track?
Definitely. The venue is family-friendly. There is a dedicated kids’ learner track (visible from the car park) for riders under 12 on small-wheel minicross bikes (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Younger riders can enjoy the 500m beginner loop or the mini SX track, while bigger adults ride the main circuit. Parents often bring kids to watch – just keep them outside the active race areas. If your child wants to ride, be aware the club generally requires a minimum age and gear even on the mini track. For spectators and guests, there’s no age restriction – children under 5 often attend free with parents.
Is TECT – Tauranga Motorcycle Club wheelchair accessible?
Partially. The venue is mostly uneven terrain, but the main Arrival Centre building is wheelchair-accessible (www.spacetoco.com ), and there are accessible restrooms there. The primary viewing areas (flat ground near the start/finish) are on compacted gravel or grass. If you need full accessibility, it’s best to stay around the Arrival Centre or the carpark viewing area. Getting right next to the track may be challenging off pavement, but you can still see most of the action from smoother vantage points.
What about weather and event cancellations?
TECT Park is open-air, so weather affects the event. Fortunately, the track built on sandy-loam soil drains extremely well (www.thedirt.co.nz ), so light rain rarely shuts races down. The club will water the track if it’s too dry, or decide on minor delays if it’s muddy. Heavy storms can delay or postpone races for safety. It’s wise to check the club’s alerts or Facebook page if bad weather is forecast. Either way, come prepared for sun or rain (sunscreen, warm layers, and a rain jacket) – conditions can change quickly on the Kaimai foothills.
Are dogs allowed at the track?
Dogs are permitted in most parts of TECT Park, but with restrictions. The park has an off-leash dog exercise area (opened in 2015) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). However, dogs should not wander onto the racetrack or into the pits – they can spook riders and cause accidents. So on race days, keep dogs in vehicles or on a leash well away from active track zones. Also, the park rules require owners to pick up after their dog. In practice, many visitors leave pets at home or in campers during motocross events.
Can I camp overnight at TECT Park?
The All Terrain Park has a designated freedom-camping site with a KiwiCamp (Penny) facility (www.tectpark.co.nz ), but it’s located near the mountain-bike/carpark area, not next to the moto venue. You can use that if you have a self-contained campervan (fees apply via the KiwiCamp app). Casual tenting is only allowed in that zone with a permit; no informal camping is allowed along the tracks. For motorbike events, most people either ride/tunnel home or stay in Tauranga accommodations. If you plan to overnight, book in Tauranga or reserve a spot at one of the local holiday parks – there is no open campground immediately at the motocross track.
Can non-motorcyclists or spectators ride on the public track loops?
Yes – apart from the club’s racing circuits, TECT Park has public motocross trails that anyone can use (for free). These include a small kids’ learner track, a 500m beginners loop and a longer advanced loop (www.tectpark.co.nz ). You don’t need a race license for those public trails. They are open to the public on weekends and some weekdays (check the park’s alerts page). These are separate from the Tauranga MC’s private track. So if you just want to take your dirt bike for fun, you can do so on the public tracks without joining the club (just follow the posted park rules). Riders under 12 can use the learner track, and only two-wheel bikes are allowed (no quads on any track) (www.tectpark.co.nz ).
What time should I arrive for a race day?
Race days often start in the morning (around 9–10am) and run until mid-afternoon. We recommend arriving at least 1–2 hours before the first race. This lets you get a good parking spot near the pits, buy your entry ticket, and set up any chairs or shade. It also gives you time to sign waivers or pick up any race bike numbers. For important races, practice sessions begin early, so families often arrive even earlier to secure a spot. In short: don’t be fashionably late – getting there early maximizes your viewing choices.
Does the track host any non-motorcycle events?
Generally no – the Tauranga Motorcycle Club track is dedicated to motorcycling. You won’t find concerts or motor shows here, as the facilities are specialized for off-road riding. The broader TECT Park does hold non-motorsport events (like off-road 4WD competitions, airsoft games, etc.), but if you’re specifically asking about the motocross venue, it’s exclusively for bike sports. Any other sport or festival at this spot would require special council permission. So plan on only motorcycling-related activities during your visit.
Who should I contact for more information about a specific event?
The fastest way is to check the Tauranga Motorcycle Club’s official Facebook page or website for event updates. They usually post race dates, entry links, and contacts there. Alternatively, the Western Bay leisure website or Motorcycling NZ events calendar may list contact info or entry portals for major events. On race day, club officials (like the sign-in staff) can answer questions. For rules or permit issues, you can also reach out to the club via email or phone, which is often listed on their website or event posters.
