Western BOP District Council green-lights Thunder Ridge

The Western Bay of Plenty District Council has given its approval for a new motorsport facility at TECT Park, with Thunder Ridge Motorsport Park set to become the first purpose-built circuit in the region since the closure of Baypark.

The unanimous council decision was followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), clearing the way for lease negotiations, ground works, and construction planning to begin.

Tony Roberts, co-creator of Hampton Downs and part of the Thunder Ridge management group, says the milestone is the result of years of work.

“We have worked closely with the council throughout the development stage of the Thunder Ridge idea and we are now in a position to turn that idea into a reality thanks to the unanimous support of all council members. It’s exciting times for us and for the region and it will now be full steam ahead to turn the ambitious plans into reality. There’s been plenty of work over the last three years and we’re all delighted we can make an official start.”

Roberts adds that TECT Park has already established itself as a hub for motorsport.

“This project would bring even more opportunities for clubs, fans, and the wider community to get involved. Thunder Ridge brings professionalism and experience to this project, with a clear vision for a sealed racing track and facilities that could attract significant numbers of visitors.”

Thunder Ridge Motorsport Park is the vision of Roberts, long-time racer Roger Williams, and former Pukekohe Park and Hampton Downs circuit manager Gary Stirling.

Unlike many large-scale venues, the project will not rely on public funding. It will also be built to comply with the FIA’s stringent international standards, enabling the facility to host a wide variety of events.

Planned for a 70-hectare site, the new circuit will include a sealed 3.2km track, pit garages, clubrooms, and other facilities, with provisions for grassroots motorsport, car clubs, and track days. The developers aim to create a world-class but affordable destination for competitors and enthusiasts across the Bay of Plenty and beyond.

With approval secured, work will now shift to garage sales and construction planning. More than 65 expressions of interest were received earlier this year when designs for the track were revealed, suggesting strong demand for the new facility.