Ruapuna Motorsport Park, motorsport track in New Zealand
Ruapuna Motorsport Park is a racing track in the countryside near Christchurch with multiple circuit layouts designed for different types of racing, featuring curves and straight sections where vehicles reach high speeds. The facility includes garages, pit areas, grandstands, and spectator viewing points with clear signage and helpful staff.
The track opened in 1963 as a simple flat road course with a triangular layout and underwent multiple expansions, including straightaway widening in 1976 and club building construction in 1984. The facility was substantially extended in 1993 with modern amenities such as garage equipment and an electronic tracking system.
The park serves as a gathering place for motorsport fans and drivers who share a passion for cars and motorcycles on race days. Local teams and clubs have built a tradition here over decades, with spectators becoming part of a community that celebrates speed and driving skill.
The park is easily accessible by road, located about 13 kilometers northwest of Christchurch city center and less than 15 minutes from the airport. Check the event schedule online beforehand, as races typically occur on weekends, and arriving early is advisable to secure good viewing spots.
The track was added to the popular racing video game Project CARS in 2015, making it one of the few New Zealand racing tracks available in a major video game. This brought international recognition to the park and made it known among racing game players worldwide.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
