Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, September 27, 2023
New Zealand has been chosen as the venue for yet another prestigious international sporting event, ensuring a positive inflow of visitors to Aotearoa with serious supercar action. Taupō’s round of the Repco Supercars Championship will take place from April 19 to April 21, 2024 organisers have announced.
The amount of central and local government spending required to secure the event has also been revealed, with the Major Events Fund putting in $5 million over the next three years and the Taupō District Council contributing $900,000 for the same period.
The event would be staged in Taupō until at least 2026, with a review after that. The event was formally welcomed to Taupō with a ceremony at the Taupō International Motorsport Park on September 21, 2023.
It is also the 35th different circuit, and the seventh international venue after Shanghai (China), Circuit of the Americas (United States), Yas Marina (Abu Dhabi) and Bahrain to host Supercars racing.
Excitement all around
Supercars CEO Shane Howard said, “ We could not be more excited to be racing here in 200 days in Taupō.” We had an incredible response to the announcement earlier this month and as a result, we are trying to ensure we cover all options for ticketing before we go on sale.”
“We anticipate having grandstand, general admission, corporate and other ticketing options confirmed and on sale in just a few weeks. The venue is incredible. To think that in just over 200 days this entire venue will be filled with fans as Supercars race here is very exciting,” he said.
Mayor David Trewavas said Taupō was the events capital of New Zealand and attracting a premium event like Supercars to Taupō cemented that reputation.
“All I can say is go the Supercars. The event would help support neighbouring areas of Waikato, Ruapehu, Hawke’s Bay and Rotorua.” About 100,000 people were expected to attend over the three days, bringing in business opportunities for the region, and boosting hospitality, tourism and other related avenues.
Mr Trewavas said there was a lot of excitement in the district around Supercars and locals and tourism operators were looking forward to warmly welcoming teams and supporters.
“Attracting a premium event like Supercars to the Taupō District further cements our reputation as the events capital of New Zealand and our central location means people will come from all over the country and overseas.” In addition to the council’s cash contribution, it would also provide in-kind support in the form of council venues and event activations.
“We hope that while they are here for Supercars, they will take the opportunity to enjoy our superb scenery and world-class tourism attractions too.”
Support from Government
The Government is also getting engines started through the Major Events Fund, a special fund to support high-profile events in New Zealand that provide long-term economic, social and cultural benefits.
“The Repco Supercars Championship is a premier motorsport event showcasing some of the world’s best touring car drivers,” Economic Development Minister Barbara Edmonds said.
“Since the first ever international championship round for Supercars was held in 2001, the event has grown to become one of the largest sporting events in our country. After a one-year hiatus, we are helping the high-octane event return to our shores. The Government will contribute $5 million to support the Taupō International Motorsport Park round between 2024 and 2026, providing long-term confidence to organisers and commercial partners.”
“This investment will open a new chapter for racing in New Zealand. It will support local economies by generating cultural and economic opportunities, as well as supporting the region’s post-Covid recovery. We look forward to supporting the organisers to kick these events into gear and maximise the benefits for Kiwis,” Ms Edmonds said.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
