--- title: "Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Events 2027 | Rotokawa, Waikato | Ticket Fairy" description: "Browse upcoming and past events at Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre in Rotokawa, Waikato. Find dates, event details and tickets." canonical: "https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park" --- 1. [Ticket Fairy](https://www.ticketfairy.com/) 2. [Events](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events) 3. [Events in Rotokawa, Waikato](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa) 4. Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Events # Events at Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Browse upcoming and past events at Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre in Rotokawa, Waikato. Find dates, event details and tickets. [Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Website](http://www.brucemclarenmotorsportpark.com/) Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Phone: [+64 7-376 5033](tel:+6473765033) Search events... - [Events in Rotokawa, Waikato](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa) - [Hotels near Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park/hotels) ## Upcoming months February 2027 – April 2027 Plan your trip around these upcoming events. [See all upcoming events](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&type=upcoming) ### February 2027 - 6 [NZIGP Waitangi Rumble](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-waitangi-rumble) [All events in February 2027](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&date_from=2027-02-01&date_to=2027-02-28&type=all) ### March 2027 - 20 [NZIGP Great Lake Taupo](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-great-lake-taupo2027) [All events in March 2027](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&date_from=2027-03-01&date_to=2027-03-31&type=all) ### April 2027 - 24 [NZIGP Spirit of ANZAC](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-spirit-of-anzac) [All events in April 2027](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&date_from=2027-04-01&date_to=2027-04-30&type=all) [Today](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&type=all&date_from=2026-11-15&date_to=2026-11-15) [Tomorrow](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&type=all&date_from=2026-11-16&date_to=2026-11-16) [This weekend](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&type=all&date_from=2026-11-14&date_to=2026-11-15) Choose dates `GET` [Apply dates](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&type=all) Add both date parameters to this address using YYYY-MM-DD format. Both dates are included and use the local time at this location. - From: `date_from=YYYY-MM-DD` - To: `date_to=YYYY-MM-DD` [Outdoor event](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-rotokawa/taupo-motorsport-park?city=rotokawa&category=outdoorEvent&type=all) [![NZIGP Spirit of ANZAC flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_160015_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-spirit-of-anzac) ### [NZIGP Spirit of ANZAC](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-spirit-of-anzac) Sat, 24 Apr - Sun, 25 Apr 2027 Sports event The NZIGP Spirit of ANZAC brings together a remarkable mix of racing machinery, with historic and classic cars from… Apr 24 - 25 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![NZIGP Great Lake Taupo flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_160009_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-great-lake-taupo2027) ### [NZIGP Great Lake Taupo](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-great-lake-taupo2027) Sat, 20 Mar - Sun, 21 Mar 2027 Sports event The weekend features racing from NZ Formula First, BMW Race Driver, GTRNZ, NZ Superkarts and NZ Porsche categories. Mar 20 - 21 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![NZIGP Waitangi Rumble flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_202509_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-waitangi-rumble) ### [NZIGP Waitangi Rumble](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/nzigp-waitangi-rumble) Sat, 6 Feb - Sun, 7 Feb 2027 Sports event Enjoy a packed weekend of racing featuring Formula First, BMW, classic saloons, Minis and Central Muscle Cars. Feb 06 - 07 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![Super Sprint Round 2 at Taupo Motorsport Park \[Taupo Historic GP\] flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_92655_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/supersprint-r2-hgp-tmp-jan2024) ### [Super Sprint Round 2 at Taupo Motorsport Park \[Taupo Historic GP\]](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/supersprint-r2-hgp-tmp-jan2024) Fri, 19 Jan - Sun, 21 Jan 2024 Outdoor event, Sports event Round 2 Super Sprint NZ - Taupo Historic GP Jan 19 - 21 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![D1NZ Round 1 Taupo - Dec 2023 flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_93347_300xauto.png)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/d1nz-r1-taupo-dec2023) ### [D1NZ Round 1 Taupo - Dec 2023](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/d1nz-r1-taupo-dec2023) Fri, 15 Dec - Sat, 16 Dec 2023 Outdoor event, Sports event Watch Pro-Sport and Pro drifting competitions, with accessible pits for meeting drivers on Friday and Saturday. Dec 15 - 16 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![Super Sprint Round 1 Taupo Motorsport Park flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_91446_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/supersprint-r1-tmp-nov2023) ### [Super Sprint Round 1 Taupo Motorsport Park](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/supersprint-r1-tmp-nov2023) Fri, 17 Nov - Sun, 19 Nov 2023 Outdoor event, Sports event Experience championship racing featuring Toyota 86, GT New Zealand, Super V8, Mazda, GTRNZ and Porsche series. Nov 17 - 19 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![Super Sprint Round 6 Feat D1NZ at Taupo Motorsport Park flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_75777_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/super-sprint-round-6-feat-d1nz-at-taupo-motorsport-park) ### [Super Sprint Round 6 Feat D1NZ at Taupo Motorsport Park](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/super-sprint-round-6-feat-d1nz-at-taupo-motorsport-park) Fri, 17 Mar - Sun, 19 Mar 2023 Outdoor event, Sports event Round 6 features the Toyota Gazoo Racing GT86, Valvoline D1NZ, Golden Homes GT and Tradezone GTRNZ championships. Mar 17 - 19 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![Super Sprint Round 5 - Taupo Motorsport Park flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_74350_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/super-sprint-round-5-taupo-motorsport-park) ### [Super Sprint Round 5 - Taupo Motorsport Park](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/super-sprint-round-5-taupo-motorsport-park) Fri, 10 Feb - Sun, 12 Feb 2023 Outdoor event, Sports event Round 5 features Formula Regional Oceania, BMW, Formula Ford, V8 Utes, Formula First and Mazda Racing. Feb 10 - 12 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa [![Valvoline D1NZ 2022 | TAUPO R1 + 2 flyer](https://www.ticketfairy.com/uploaded/thumbnails/db_file_img_51616_300xauto.jpg)](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/valvoline-d1nz-R1and2-taupo) ### [Valvoline D1NZ 2022 | TAUPO R1 + 2](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event/valvoline-d1nz-R1and2-taupo) Sat, 30 Apr - Sun, 1 May 2022 Sports event The Valvoline D1NZ National Drifting Championship returns for a doubleheader featuring Pro and Pro-Sport competition. Apr - May 30 - 01 Taupo International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Rotokawa ### ### About Taupō International Motorsport Park and Events Centre Charles Taupō International Motorsport Park & Events Centre (TIMP) is a world-class motorsports facility and multi-purpose events venue in Rotokawa, near Taupō on New Zealand’s central Volcanic Plateau. Opened in 2006 after a NZ$13–14 million upgrade , it was built to FIA Grade 2 standards (one of only 76 Grade 2 circuits globally ). The main circuit is about 3.32 km long with 14 turns , anti-clockwise through rolling volcanic terrain. (Two shorter layouts – 2.2 km with 14 turns, and 1.6 km with 5 turns – allow flexible track use .) AIM Motorsport, the design firm led by former F1 driver Chris Amon, oversaw the layout’s design. TIMP replaced a modest 1959 club track and quickly became NZ’s premier race circuit: within a decade it hosted the A1 Grand Prix (2007–09) and the New Zealand Grand Prix [www.ticketfairy.com](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-taupo/taupo-motorsport-park#:~:text=status%20to%20host%20high,nz). Beyond racing, Taupō Motorsport Park includes a modern “Gasoline Alley” complex with pit garages, and seven corporate/function suites (each seating up to ~80 guests) overlooking the pits . The suites feature balconies, Wi-Fi, and AV equipment to support meetings or VIP hospitality . A dedicated dragstrip (830m, NHRA-standard) and a 400m outdoor go-kart circuit sit alongside the road course . This mix makes TIMP unique: it’s the only track in NZ able to host high-speed drag racing, international circuit racing and a go-kart park in one complex. The venue was briefly renamed Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park (2015–21) to honor the Kiwi champion, and in late 2021 it was acquired by motorsport promoter Tony Quinn . Under Quinn’s ownership, TIMP has been revitalised with membership programs and facility upgrades (new Kart track, more seating, improved conference areas) . Spectator capacity is flexible: multiple grandstands ring the main straights and corners, while large grass banks and hilltops serve general admission viewers. For business or social events, the centre’s multiple indoor spaces (meeting rooms and event halls) can host banquets or conferences for up to about 200 at a time (e.g. a set of suites plus adjoining function rooms) . The site includes ample on-site parking and is fully wheelchair-accessible . Its isolated, scenic location – framed by Lake Taupō in the distance and the volcanic hills around – makes it feel like a racetrack out of the ordinary . In fact, official sources praise its setting: “the beauty of the region and Lake Taupō” enhances any event here , and a recent review noted “great seating around the circuit… awesome views” from grandstands . Whether it’s historic racing or modern Supercars, Taupō Motorsport Park offers a distinctly Kiwi motorsport experience in a unique natural amphitheatre. ### Events and Programming TIMP’s calendar is packed with motorsport action year-round. It hosts national championships and marquee international series, as well as grassroots track days and driver training. Key annual highlights include the three-day \*\*Taupō Historic Grand Prix\*\* every January (a festival of classic racing cars), and the \*\*ITM Taupō Super400\*\* Supercars Championship round introduced in April 2024 [www.ticketfairy.com](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-taupo/taupo-motorsport-park#:~:text=The%20calendar%20at%20Taup%C5%8D%20Motorsport,ups%20have). Supercars CEO Shane Howard and local leaders emphasize how these events draw thousands of fans (with tickets on sale months in advance ) and deliver big economic benefits to Taupō . Other major race events include rounds of the \*\*Star Insure NZ Superbike\*\* series, the \*\*Prowear Superlap\*\* time-attack challenge, and \*\*Valvoline D1NZ\*\* drifting (Europe-sanctioned Japanese drifting) which kicked off in 2025 with a double-header . The track has also staged Trans-Tasman support races (Carrera Cup, TA2) and one-off specials like endurance races, car club meets (e.g. an annual MG centenary rally in 2024) and stunt shows. Outside competition events, enthusiasts can book \*\*track days\*\* through TIMP’s GT Membership program or individual Taupō Auto and Taupō Moto days. [www.ticketfairy.com](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-taupo/taupo-motorsport-park#:~:text=%28everything,In%20short%2C%20Taup%C5%8D%20Motorsport%20Park) These run frequently in spring–autumn, letting licensed drivers experience the circuit in cars or bikes. There are also \*\*U-Drive experiences\*\* (hot-lap rides in performance cars) and open-access weekends. Families enjoy the on-site \*\*Go Kart track\*\*, which offers adult and tandem junior karts on its newly redeveloped 400m loop . Corporate clients can arrange motorkhana events, karting relays or even ride-along passenger laps at speed. TIMP also caters to non-racing events: its conference suites host seminars, corporate launches, trade expos and team-building days in a motorsport setting . In short, the venue blends racing thrills (from vintage Grand Prix cars to drifting battles) with a full roster of enthusiast and community activities on and off the track [www.ticketfairy.com](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-taupo/taupo-motorsport-park#:~:text=%28everything,In%20short%2C%20Taup%C5%8D%20Motorsport%20Park) [www.ticketfairy.com](https://www.ticketfairy.com/events-in-taupo/taupo-motorsport-park#:~:text=The%20calendar%20at%20Taup%C5%8D%20Motorsport,ups%20have). ### Tickets and Booking Tickets for events at Taupō Motorsport Park vary by program. Major race weekends (like the Supercars Taupō Super400) use ticketing platforms such as Ticketek or iTicket; sales are announced on the official TIMP site and social media. These events often have tiered pricing: for example, reserved grandstand seats (e.g. at Turns 12/13) can be $100+ for a full-day, while general admission on grass might be under $50 for a day pass or a cheaper multi-day pass. Community events and track days may charge a flat fee (hundreds of dollars) to participate. To grab the best seats, fans are advised to book early. The Supercars round in 2024 sold out its first allocation within weeks of the November pre-sale , prompting extra stands to be built. There is no on-site box office all year, but limited walk-up tickets may be available during big events at the gates (subject to availability). For corporate functions or private bookings (meetings, gala dinners, conferences), contact the TIMP events team for quotes. In any case, check the official website and authorized sellers (and subscribe to newsletters) for up-to-date sale dates, pre-sales, pricing tiers and membership offers. Members often get advance booking rights or discounts. ### Seating and Layout TIMP is an outdoor circuit with both reserved seating and open general admission. Permanent grandstands line the start/finish straight and several corners. Notable sections include the Platinum grandstand at Turn 12 and the new Gold grandstand at Turn 13, both offering premium views down the long straights and around the final hairpin . A dedicated corporate “Taumotu Lounge” is built at Turn 9 for VIP guests, and there are hospitality pods on the straight. In front of the paddock building (Gasoline Alley) there is a covered position ideal for watching pit lane action. Beyond the stands, grassy banks and hills encircle the track – patrons often bring foldable chairs or baize and situate themselves anywhere with a good line of sight. A track review noted “great seating around the circuit” and especially praised the back straight grandstand for its “awesome views of the track” . The seven hospitality suites overlook the main circuit and each hold up to ~80 people, suitable for small VIP audiences or corporate groups . Inside these suites and the paddock building are cushioned seating, climate control and private restrooms. These areas also have built-in sound systems for announcements and can serve as COVID-safe indoor areas. Acoustically it’s a live motorsport environment: engines reverberate all around. Visitors usually wear ear protection since motorsport noise can exceed 100 dB. Otherwise, the sightlines are excellent from almost every seat due to the open layout and varied elevation (no significant obstructions). The only areas to avoid on busy days are the small sections beyond the track wall near the slow Hairpin 14, where visibility is limited. ### Getting There and Parking The venue address is \*\*463 Broadlands Road, Rotokawa 3378\*\* (Taupō) , about 7 km (10–15 minutes) north-east of Taupō township on SH 5. It sits in a rural area between the Whakamaru/East Taupo power line corridor and the Wairakei geothermal fields. Follow signs for Taupō Motorsport Park off SH 5 – ample on-site parking is available immediately adjacent to the pit buildings and spectator areas. As the official Taupō tourism site notes, “there’s plenty of carparking” at the motorsport park , and most large events use free parking on-site or in nearby overflow fields. Being a quiet country road, set aside extra time during peak events (parking is often first-come). For accessible parking, dedicated spaces are provided near the main entrance. Public transportation to Rotokawa is extremely limited. There is no direct bus route to the track. The best approach is to reach Taupō by car or shuttle, then drive (or taxi/rideshare) out Broadlands Road. Some event organizers run private shuttles from Taupō town or adjacent camping grounds. Taxis and rideshare (Uber/Zoomy) can drop off customers at the main gate (nearest intersection of Broadlands and Waikite Valley roads). Note that at night, local taxi supply is small – it’s wise to pre-book a return or drive yourself. If coming from further afield, the closest airport is Taupō (domestic) or Rotorua, both 45–60 min away by road. On weekends, rental cars are recommended. For those driving to Taupō first, the township is well served by buses and shuttles from Auckland/Wellington – then it’s a 10 km drive to the track. ### Inside the Venue On event days, TIMP runs like a small race village. Entry is usually by scanning an email/mobile ticket or wristband at the main turnstiles near the pit lane. Security check is minimal (bags under a certain size are allowed); metal detectors are not generally used for family-oriented events. Once inside, the wide concrete paddock and pit lane area acts as a concourse: you’ll find toilets (including accessible restrooms), food/drink vendors and merchandise stalls here. During big race weekends there is typically a merchandise tent selling event memorabilia (hats, posters, race apparel). Prompt food trucks and BBQ tents serve classic track fare: burgers, hot dogs, fish ‘n’ chips, ice creams and beverage stands. TripAdvisor visitors report the on-site food is “good quality at reasonable prices,” so attendees needn’t leave for lunch . It’s still wise to bring your own water bottle (refill stations may not be ubiquitous) and snacks if on a budget. A small kiosk sells soft drinks and coffee; outside alcohol is usually not permitted (pitchers and beer huts are opened only at licensed events). Wireless connectivity is moderate: corporate suites offer free Wi-Fi, but mobile data can get spotty under the grandstands. Major carriers (Vodafone, Spark) generally have coverage here since short-range event hot spots may be set up for ticket scanning. Takeaway food vendors typically accept cards or EFTPOS. Most people wander the venue freely – children especially enjoy exploring the free-to-roam paddock and the Go Kart staging area (during lulls). If you’re following a race, ask staff or check the event brochure for the schedule (these are often sold at the commentary gantry or on apps). Photo/video cameras are fine for personal use (no drones are allowed above the track). For Moto-specific days, the park enforces strict camera mounting rules on riders’ vehicles , but spectators can shoot photos from anywhere. ### Nearby Amenities While the Motorsport Park itself has limited concessions, Taupō town is just a short drive away with plenty of options. For \*\*restaurants\*\*, Taupō’s town centre (15 km southwest) offers everything from casual cafés and pizzerias to gourmet dining. Top picks include Cobb & Co Steakhouse (family-friendly in central Taupō) , and Plateau Restaurant (fine dining by the lake). Quick eats and takeaways (pumpkin hot pies, fish and chips, kebabs) are common on Spa Road and Roberts Street in town. Nearby breweries such as Keg & Brewer or Redoubt Bar serve local craft beers and hearty pub meals. For fast coffee or lunch on race-day mornings, look for service stations and cafes along State Highway 5 near Wairakei. \*\*Bars and nightlife\*\* near the circuit itself are very limited (it’s a rural area). Most fans head into Taupō town in the evening. The Courthouse Hotel and the Duke Bar in Taupō host live sports and music occasionally, which can be fun after a race day. Locals often have a beer at The Pool Bar by the lakefront or sample Tasmanian whisky at the nearby distillery in Wairakei. (Remember that on race weekends, accommodation and bars book up quickly.) \*\*Hotels and lodging\*\*: Visitors usually stay in Taupō (downtown or lakeside) or at the nearby Wairakei Resort. In town, options range from luxury (Hilton Lakefront, Millennium Hotel, Rydges Suncourt, or the Lake Taupō Holiday Resort) to mid-range (Mantra/Taupo NOVATEL, Tiki Hotel). All are about 10–15 minutes’ drive from the circuit. Popular lodgings often sell out on race weekends, so early booking is advised. The neighboring Wairakei Tourist Park (Rotorua Rd) offers cabins and a Holiday Park for families, plus its own golf course and thermal attractions . If camping, note the park allows motorhomes overnight for a fee (self-contained vehicles only) . For \*\*arrival timing and transport\*\*, most visitors plan to arrive at least an hour before race action begins (and earlier for na­tional championship finals). If you want downtown shops or restaurants, consider stopping in Taupō on the way or after the event. Late-night transport can be sparse: Taupō’s public buses don’t run late, so arrange a private transfer for night events or plan to carpool. Taxis/Uber can usually be booked from Taupō back to Auckland/Wellington via the airport or long-distance bus networks. Overall, expect each trip back and forth from town to take at least 20–30 minutes by car, especially on summer weekend afternoons when holiday traffic is heavy. ### What Makes This Venue Special Taupō International Motorsport Park stands out for its unique combination of top­-tier racing infrastructure and NZ scenery. It was built by a local enthusiasts’ trust to fit into the volcanic plateau, giving it a dramatic mountain backdrop (Mt Tauhara looms over one end). It’s also strategically important: as the only Grade 2–classified circuit in New Zealand, it fills a longstanding gap (no Supercars had raced in NZ since 2008 until Taupō’s 2024 return) . The track has quickly become a new home for Kiwi motorsport traditions. For example, historic racers regard the Taupō Historic GP as a crown jewel, bringing global legend cars to local fans each year. Under new ownership, the park is expanding its appeal: Tony Quinn hints at adding a second Supercars weekend in 2026 alongside Pukekohe, plus inviting Australian Superbike and other Trans-Tasman series . Culturally, TIMP is seen as a \*\*community hub\*\*. Local officials note that big race weekends “generate economic activity … in the towns that host them” and pump money into the Waikato region . The park sponsors local youth programs (e.g. school motoring days) and charity runs, and it offers local vendors and racers a venue. Being privately owned by a prominent NZ motorsport figure also gives it star power: Tony Quinn’s involvement (he also owns Highlands and Hampton Downs circuits) means Taupō benefits from shared expertise and the GT membership model that revitalised those other tracks . Architecturally, the facility is modern and well-maintained. Its pit-and-paddock complex (“Gasoline Alley”) is a sleek multi-story building, and grandstands have been refreshed for big events. Facilities have been expanded since 2022 (for example, new corporate lounges, extra bleachers) to handle international crowds. All this combines with the laid-back Taupō vibe – visitors often comment on the friendly Kiwi atmosphere, where drivers and fans mingle freely. In short, audiences and racers love it because it delivers high-speed thrills without losing sight of the lake-town hospitality. Politicians emphasize that government support for the Supercars round through 2026 “underscores” the park’s economic and cultural significance to the region . Simply put, Taupō Motorsport Park is a rare case of world-class racing platform woven into the heart of New Zealand’s adventure-tourism landscape. ### Visitor Tips and Information - \*\*Accessibility\*\*: The track is wheelchair-friendly. Ramps and reserved seating are provided, and accessible restrooms are marked. However, expect open gravel areas, so some movement aid may help. Road access is flat from the main gate to the grandstands. - \*\*What to bring/avoid\*\*: Wear sensible shoes and sun protection (Taupō’s sun is strong, and open stands have little shade). Ear plugs or noise-cancelling headphones are highly recommended for close trackside views. Cameras and smartphones are allowed, but drones and professional broadcast equipment without permission are prohibited. Small bags are fine, but large luggage (outside of licensed campers) is not. No outside alcohol is permitted; coolers are subject to check. Picnic blankets and foldable chairs are allowed on the grass. - \*\*Policies\*\*: Pets (especially dogs) are not allowed on site at any time . Visitors must use provided bins and “leave no rubbish behind” . No open fires are allowed (barbecues only in designated areas). Smoking is restricted to open-air areas away from fuel. Event security may enforce these rules, so please cooperate. - \*\*Food & Drink\*\*: On busy race days there are several food outlets in the paddock area (coffee, burgers, ice-cream, etc). Fans report the food quality is good and reasonably priced . If attending a smaller event or practice day, it’s wise to bring your own water and snacks (there may not be vendors outside main race weekends). Electronic payment is widely accepted by vendors. - \*\*Weather\*\*: Taupō’s weather can change quickly – sun, wind or showers can all occur in a day. Check the forecast and dress in layers. Bring a raincoat if rain threatens; umbrellas can obstruct views and are often discouraged in stands (though rain ponchos are okay). - \*\*Arrival Tips\*\*: Plan to arrive early on event days. Gates typically open 1–2 hours before track action. Early arrival ensures better parking and seating choices, and often special access (paddock tours or driver autograph sessions happen at start-of-day). Pop into Taupō town for last-minute supplies (fuel, snacks or foreign currency) on the way if needed. - \*\*Age Restrictions\*\*: Most motorsport events are family-friendly. Children are welcome (usually free or discounted on parents’ tickets) but must be supervised. Note that open-wheel and superbike practices involve loud engines; bring ear protection for kids and babies. Some events (especially evenings or R18 license Races) may limit admittance to over-18 after dark – check the specific event notice if going late. - \*\*Common Mistakes\*\*: Don’t assume cell coverage is fast – screenshot your tickets in advance. Don’t wander onto the track; viewing areas are fenced. At large events, don’t rely on finding parking at the last minute. Keep an eye on the race schedule (enjoying other activities can make you miss significant races). If you see a safety car or an incident, stay behind safety barriers when giving way to emergency vehicles. - \*\*Connectivity\*\*: Public Wi-Fi is not generally provided for GA spectators. If you need constant internet, consider a local SIM (Vodafone/Spark) or hotspot. The corporate suites and media center have Wi-Fi, but don’t expect it in the stands. - \*\*First Aid/Safety\*\*: First aid stations will be signposted; security and marshals patrol the course. In case of emergency, call 111 and alert the nearest staff member. - \*\*Enjoy the experience\*\*: Leave early if camping overnight (campers get sticker passes and must follow the on-site rules ), and always respect other fans and participants so everyone can have a good time. ### Frequently Asked Questions #### How do I buy tickets for events at Taupō Motorsport Park? Tickets are sold through official channels (see the venue or event website for details). Major race events typically use sites like Ticketek. Sign up for alerts from the park or promoters to know when they go on sale, as big events can sell out fast. Smaller track days may allow on-site purchase. #### What are typical ticket prices? Prices vary by event and seating level. As a guide, general admission for weekend motorsport events might run roughly NZ$50–$100 per day, while reserved grandstand and VIP paddock tickets can be several hundred. Corporate and hospitality packages cost more. Check each event’s pricing when announced; concessions apply for children at many events. #### Is there a box office at the track? During major events the gates sell tickets up until sold-out. Otherwise, there’s no permanent year-round box office. Buying online ahead of time is safest, especially for big races. Some trackdays allow pay-at-gate entry. Call the office (+64 7 376 5033) if you have questions before an event. #### What’s the nearest bus or train to the venue? There is no direct public transport to the park. The closest train station is Hamilton (150 km away). Best is to drive to Taupō (by rental car or coach from Auckland/Wellington) then taxi/Uber. Some event shuttles may run from Taupō downtown. If driving yourself, allow extra time on SH5 near Taupō during event weekends. #### Where should I park and is it free? On-site parking is ample and free for event attendees . Follow event staff directions on where to park. For major race weekends, parked cars often fill designated fields – so arrive early for a closer spot. Accessible parking is available by the main entry. Always observe the parking signage inside the gate. #### Are there wheelchair-accessible facilities? Yes. The venue is wheelchair-friendly. Ramps and flat access lead to most viewing areas and restrooms. Accessible toilets are provided. Some grandstands have dedicated wheelchair platforms. If you have specific needs, contact the venue in advance for assistance or seating arrangements. #### What are the best viewing spots? The back straight (grandstands at Turns 12-13) offers thrilling high-speed views . The start/finish straight also has stands for the race pit action. Grass hilltops around corners give panoramic sightlines. For families, the infield near the kart track is popular (kid-friendly). In general, higher vantage points avoid obstructed sightlines. Avoid shallow-angle corners where you can’t see far down the track. #### What items are not allowed in? Personal cameras and phones are fine, but drones are banned. Outside alcohol, large coolers and professional recording equipment (without permission) are not permitted. No dangerous items or weapons of course. Smoke machines, flares or fireworks are forbidden. Check the event’s policy; typically only items against the ticket (wallet, sunblock, hat, raincoat) are allowed. #### Are children allowed at the races? Absolutely. Most events welcome families. Young children often get free or reduced-price entry. Bring ear protection for kids close to the action (supreme noise levels are possible). Parents should supervise children at all times. Note: after dark at some events there may be age restrictions (e.g. 18+ crowds for night races or festival zones), so check the specific event rules. #### What food and drink is available inside? There are food trucks and kiosks selling typical track food (burgers, hot dogs, fries, pies, drinks, coffee). Reviewers praise these outlets for good quality and reasonable prices . Although basic, they usually have the essentials. If you prefer, you can bring your own snacks (subject to any café rules), but outside alcohol is not allowed. There’s no restaurant on site, except the go-kart cafe (open during kart track hours). #### Can I walk around the circuit? Spectators can roam the paddock and spectator areas freely, but the circuit itself is never open to general foot traffic. In other words, you can walk between grandstands, pit lane (public area only) and food stalls, but must stay behind the safety fences around the track. Always heed marshals’ instructions on access during racing or track closures. #### Is there mobile phone reception? Signal is generally adequate for calls and texting around the venue, though data speeds may slow if lots of people are uploading. Wi-Fi is available in the corporate suites but not in open spectator zones, so don’t depend on free Wi-Fi. If you need internet, consider a local SIM card with data. Otherwise, treat it like most stadiums: intermittent service is normal on big days. #### Can I book corporate events or conferences at the track? Yes, Taupō Motorsport Park markets itself as a distinctive conference and event venue . They have meeting rooms, hospitality suites and open areas ideal for product launches, seminars, or team-builders (combining classroom time with a track drive). For details or bookings, contact the park directly via their website or the Taupō events office. They can package catering and AV into your room hire. #### What’s the weather policy? Racing typically goes on rain or shine, so check the forecast and dress for it. If conditions become unsafe (e.g. very heavy rain, lightning), events pause or reschedule. There is limited cover in the stands or paddock – bring rain gear or a poncho if rain is expected. If a meeting runs outside, it too will follow typical large-venue weather cancellation rules. Always verify with the event organiser on their rain-delay or refund policy. #### Are there guided tours or behind-the-scenes experiences? Occasionally the park or event promoters offer pit-lane walks or paddock tours (especially for charity or group events), but these are not regular. Check the event brochure or ask at the ticket office on arrival. Some membership or hospitality packages include access to the pit garages. Otherwise, you can watch most of the action from public grandstands and viewing areas at ground level without needing a tour. #### What is the track surface made of? The entire road course is sealed with high-grade asphalt. The surface was repaved during the 2006 upgrade to ensure smooth international racing standards. You’ll find no gravel or dirt on the main track (except at the edges or runoff). The drag strip is also high-grip tarmac. This means good traction for race cars and clear lines of sight on hot sunny days, but be prepared for glare off the black surface in midday sun. --- This page is on Ticket Fairy, a ticketing, marketing and operations platform for live events and the venues that host them: festivals, club nights, concerts, conferences and tours, and night clubs, beach clubs and concert venues. It grows revenue with fan rewards that turn an audience into a sales channel, and runs the money side with payments and payouts, Vault business banking, and working capital advanced against ticket sales. [How Ticket Fairy ticketing works](https://www.ticketfairy.com/event-ticketing) · [Ticket Fairy for AI assistants](https://www.ticketfairy.com/llms.txt)