Taupō International Motorsport Park is one of New Zealand’s premier motorsport venues — a permanent FIA Grade 2 rated circuit on the outskirts of Taupō that hosts everything from national championship rounds and drag racing events to open track days for car and motorcycle enthusiasts. The complex includes a 3.3-kilometre circuit with 14 turns, a full dragstrip and a go-kart track, and it draws visitors from across the country for its major events calendar as well as regular recreational driving sessions.
Practical Information
| Location | Centennial Drive, Taupō — on the eastern outskirts of town |
| Circuit | 3.3km main circuit · 14 turns · FIA Grade 2 rated · Multiple configurations available |
| Dragstrip | 830m NHRA standard dragstrip with capacity viewing for 10,000 spectators |
| Also on site | 400m outdoor go-kart track, corporate suites, pit lane complex with 32 garages |
| Track days | Regular Taupō Auto and Taupō Moto track days — see taupomp.co.nz for schedule |
The Circuit
The main circuit at Taupō Motorsport Park is 3.3 kilometres long with 14 turns across an undulating volcanic landscape. Four circuit configurations are available (3.4km, 3.3km, 2.2km and 1.3km), allowing the venue to host events ranging from club-level racing to national championships. The pit lane complex includes 32 garages across a three-storey facility with corporate suites above track level.
The 830-metre dragstrip is built to NHRA standard and can accommodate 10,000 spectators — one of the more substantial drag racing venues in New Zealand. Regular drag events are held alongside the circuit calendar.
Events
The motorsport park hosts several major events annually. The Taupō Historic Grand Prix — typically held in January — is one of the most significant historic motorsport events on the NZ calendar, drawing pre-1978 competition cars from across the country and beyond. The Supercars Championship has returned to Taupō in recent years, bringing the Australian touring car series to the circuit for a round of the NZ leg of the championship. Regular club-level events, car test days and motorcycle test days fill the rest of the calendar.
Track days for road cars and motorcycles — branded as Taupō Auto and Taupō Moto — run throughout the year and are open to participants at various experience levels.
Where to Learn More
Taupō Motorsport Park — Official Website
Full events calendar, track day bookings, go-kart track information and venue details.
Taupō Motorsport Park — Events
Upcoming race meetings, track days and special events at the circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can members of the public drive on the Taupō circuit?
Yes — regular track days are open to car and motorcycle enthusiasts. Check the Taupō Motorsport Park website for upcoming dates and session types.
What is FIA Grade 2 rating?
FIA Grade 2 is the international standard required to host Formula 2, certain Formula 1 support categories and other major international events. The Taupō circuit meets this standard.
What major events are held at Taupō Motorsport Park?
The Taupō Historic Grand Prix (usually January) and Supercars Championship rounds are the headline events. Regular club racing, drag events and track days fill the year.
Is there a go-kart track at Taupō Motorsport Park?
Yes — a 400-metre outdoor go-kart track is available on site. Check the venue website for session availability and pricing.
How far is the motorsport park from Taupō town?
It’s on the eastern outskirts of town — about 5 minutes by car from the Taupō town centre.
See also: Activities in Taupō · Taupō BMX Track