Ruapuna Is a Potential Host for a Second Local Supercars Round

Ruapuna Motorsport Park in Christchurch is emerging as a strong contender to host a second Supercars round in New Zealand. The Press reported that the city’s economic development agency is talking with organisers.

Last month Supercars and the Central Otago District Council discussed a potential event at Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell. So two SI venues for Supercars are on the cards.

The Canterbury Car Club facilities are under review as part of the preparations. Lewis Low, president of the Canterbury Car Club, said that the track is being upgraded for an international event. However, no other details were available and Supercars has not commented on the matter either.

Following the demise of Sail GP in Christchurch, the city’s economic development agency evidently has unspent funds. These could go towards a major international event.

The city itself has gone through a significant period of growth in the hospitality sector since the 2011 earthquake. Over a dozen big hotels have opened since 2020. Several others are in varying stages of development.

The proximity of Ruapuna to Christchurch International Airport may be another key factor.

Highlands Motorsport Park, meanwhile, is in a popular tourism region in Otago. Queenstown also presents plenty of accommodation options for fans and teams alike.

Highlands CEO, Josie Spillane, spoke last month about the potential for a round at the venue, saying: “It’s early stages, but so far, all the lights are green.

“Our reputation is one of getting things done, and we don’t waste any time. We’ve already opened up viewing areas, the track’s been given a tick of approval, and we’ve a consent in place to make it all happen. We like to walk the talk, as they say!

“Warbirds, Wheels Over Wanaka, the Queenstown Marathon, and the Winter Games also showcase that there is plenty of capacity in the region to host visitors to major events.

“Logistics are all doable – it’s just about having smart people involved, and the Supercars team are experts.”

The venue features a world-class circuit, which the likes of Shane van Gisbergen and Liam Lawson have recognised as their favourite.

The possibility of hosting the second round in the North Island was discussed recently. Tony Quinn, owner of the Taupo track, said the event utilised all the temporary stands available in the region, highlighting the strain on infrastructure.

On the Ruapuna venue Quinn suggested “It wouldn’t be a bad thing if the V8s went there.

“I think it would be a good event, but it would be quite costly,” referring to the upgrades required at Ruapuna to host such a series.

Regardless of the location, a second Supercars round in New Zealand appears increasingly likely. It promises a thrilling opportunity for South Island motorsport fans by 2026.