Supercars returning to New Zealand in 2024

Supercars is pleased to announce that with support from the New Zealand Government and Taupō District Council, the Repco Supercars Championship will return to New Zealand and race at Taupō International Motorsport Park from 2024.

Following productive discussions, the New Zealand Government via the Major Events Fund has confirmed its backing for an event to take place at the North Island circuit from 2024 until at least 2026.

Supercars CEO Shane Howard said: "We are honoured to receive the New Zealand Major Events and Taupō District Council's endorsement for the Supercars Championship's return in 2024.

"A key priority for Supercars has been the Championship’s return to New Zealand and its passionate fan base.

"This support is a great step forward in ensuring we can begin a new chapter of racing at the world-class circuit in Taupō.

"With the support and the availability of Taupō International Motorsport Park, Supercars is now focused on identifying a suitable date for the event in 2024.

"The championship looks forward to collaborating closely with all stakeholders, series partners and fans, to ensure the successful return of the Supercars Championship to New Zealand.

"We can’t wait to get over to New Zealand to celebrate with our dedicated fans this major announcement for the Championship."

Tauhara hapū and Ngāti Tūwharetoa spokesperson, Te Moananui Rameka, welcomed the exciting news of the Repco Supercars Championship returning to NZ and debuting at Taupō International Motorsport Park in 2024.

Te Moananui commented: "This event marks a significant opportunity for our rohe, both culturally and economically. Supercars offer a platform to showcase our indigeneity to the world. This event can serve as a bridge to share our traditions, stories, and values with attendees from around the globe, fostering understanding and appreciation of who we are as a people.

"By embracing the Supercars event, we are forging a meaningful partnership between the Tauhara hapū, Ngāti Tūwharetoa and the motorsport community. This collaboration promises cultural exchange and sustainable economic advancement for our people. We look forward to this event's positive impact on Tauhara hapū, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, the Taupō community and Aotearoa."

Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas said he was thrilled to be able to welcome the Repco Supercars Championship to Taupō from 2024 and welcomed the economic benefits the event will provide.

"Attracting a premium event like Supercars to the Taupō District further cements our reputation as the events capital of New Zealand," Mr Trewavas said.

"Our central location means people will come from all over the country and we are looking forward to making the most of it. We expect a lot of visitors to our town and our district; and we know they’ll receive a warm Taupō welcome."

Owner of Taupō International Motorsport Park, Tony Quinn said: "It’s fitting that Supercars is coming back to NZ and hats off to everyone who has made it happen. The kiwis are going to love the excitement of it all.  While some people might be surprised that it’s at our Taupō Track, we think it’s a winning combination – the track will provide excellent racing, the consents are all in place, Taupō and their community have a proven track record in hosting world-class events, and we know that Supercars knows how to make the magic happen.

"Since purchasing the park at the end of 2021, we’ve been full steam ahead bringing it up to 'TQ' standard and it’s special for our organisation to be part of the team making Supercars a reality back in NZ, in one of the most stunning regions in the country.

"I’ve no doubt that the Aussies that make the trip over to NZ are going to be well impressed with the Taupō region and all it has to offer and will go home and spread the good word."

Wayne Bryant, CEO of Repco said: "The news that the Repco Supercars Championship is heading back to New Zealand is outstanding for the sport and the local fans."As a proud Trans-Tasman business, having a round of the Supercars Championship in New Zealand makes sense for everyone. Repco has 87 stores in New Zealand and we know the Kiwis love their cars and motorsport. It's the perfect match.

"The passionate support at Pukekohe last year was unforgettable. We know the unbelievable pedigree of drivers and crew within the sport that New Zealand continues to produce, so this just makes today's news a big win for all."

Sara Johnson, CEO of ITM said: "We’re excited to share today's announcement that Supercars will be making their return to NZ for the highly anticipated ITM SuperSprint.

"After a year's hiatus, the anticipation for this news is clear. This is set to be a historic moment in New Zealand Motorsport, with the inaugural running at Taupō International Motorsport Park at the heart of our beautiful country. We consider it a privilege to once again be part of this event, bringing the thrill back for the fans.

"As a longstanding supporter of Supercars since 2010, ITM is passionate about motorsport in NZ, and we cannot wait to see the racing kick off again in Taupō as part of the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship."

Taupō International Motorsport Park has four racetrack configurations and Supercars events will use the 3.32km International Circuit configuration.

The venue features a three-storey pit lane complex featuring 32 pit garages and first floor corporate suites within the race control complex.

Supercars will continue to provide updates regarding the event date, ticketing information and further details over coming weeks.