Drifting

MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3 (Double Final)

Meremere Drift Park
North Island
Images for illustration purposes only
Event Details
  • December 11, 2026
    to
    December 12, 2026
  • Check with Organiser
  • Meremere Drift Park
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How do I start drifting in NZ?
What car do I need to start drifting?
Can spectators attend drift events?
What's the top level of drifting in New Zealand?
Enter a beginner-friendly drift day — most circuits run open practice days where road-registered cars are welcome with a helmet and basic safety checks. No competition licence needed to practise.
Any rear-wheel-drive car with a manual gearbox will do to learn — plenty of Kiwis start in stock Silvias, Skylines, BMWs or Falcons. A hydraulic handbrake and welded diff come later.
Yes — competitions are ticketed spectator events, and most practice days allow spectating for free or a small gate fee. Each listing above shows spectator details.
National championship competition draws NZ's professional drivers and international guests, with rounds at major circuits. Regional series and winter championships feed into it.
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Race Results Available

Official results have been posted for this event.

View Race Results →
Meremere Drift Park

about this event

Round 3 of 4, first half of the MSC Challenge NZ double final at Meremere Drift Park with Formula Drift Japan judge Kenji Yamanaka.

Round 3 of 4 in the MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 runs 11-12 December at Meremere Drift Park and is the first half of the double final, with Rounds 3 and 4 judged by Formula Drift Japan judge Kenji Yamanaka, who is travelling to New Zealand. Presented by Teng Tools in conjunction with Formula Drift Japan, MSC Challenge is a "Fun Comp" drift series for drivers of all skill levels, built to give everyone a fairly level playing field. It began in Japan in 2006, started by Kazuhiko Iwata, who also founded Formula Drift Japan, and it acts as a feeder series to Formula Drift Japan. The NZ series champion is awarded a Formula Drift Japan 2 Licence, and the events are livestreamed online.

Vehicle rules: full weld-in rollcage with side intrusion, full bucket seat with harnesses, and a maximum 235 tyre width on the rear road tyres (semi-slick drift tyres are not permitted at the rear). The series runs 13-14 Nov, 27-28 Nov, 11-12 Dec and 13 Dec 2026. Spectator ticket pricing and event times have not been published, so check with the organiser before travelling.

NZShift encourages you to check the official organiser's website for the latest event updates/details via the VIEW OFFICIAL EVENT below
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December 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Meremere Drift Park
Pacific/Auckland
Round 3 of 4 in the MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 runs 11-12 December at Meremere Drift Park and is the first half of the double final, with Rounds 3 and 4 judged by Formula Drift Japan judge Kenji Yamanaka, who is travelling to New Zealand. Presented by Teng Tools in conjunction with Formula Drift Japan, MSC Challenge is a "Fun Comp" drift series for drivers of all skill levels, built to give everyone a fairly level playing field. It began in Japan in 2006, started by Kazuhiko Iwata, who also founded Formula Drift Japan, and it acts as a feeder series to Formula Drift Japan. The NZ series champion is awarded a Formula Drift Japan 2 Licence, and the events are livestreamed online. Vehicle rules: full weld-in rollcage with side intrusion, full bucket seat with harnesses, and a maximum 235 tyre width on the rear road tyres (semi-slick drift tyres are not permitted at the rear). The series runs 13-14 Nov, 27-28 Nov, 11-12 Dec and 13 Dec 2026. Spectator ticket pricing and event times have not been published, so check with the organiser before travelling.
MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3

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Frequently Asked Questions

When does MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3 take place?
MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3 is scheduled for December 11, 2026. Always check "VIEW OFFICIAL EVENT" above for the latest schedule and any changes before you head along.
Where is MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3 held?
MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3 takes place at Meremere Drift Park, Drift Park, Drag Way, Meremere, in the North Island region.
How do I enter or get tickets for MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3?
You can register or buy tickets for MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3 through the official entry page linked on this listing.

NZShift only lists events — we never sell tickets or take payments, so always enter or buy directly through the organiser. If anyone offers tickets "through NZShift" or asks you to pay us, it isn't us.
What should I know before I go?
Check the “View official event” link above for gate entry, parking and food. If you’re competing, also check the organiser’s regulations for licence, logbook and safety gear requirements.
What happens if MSC Challenge NZ Championship 2026 — Round 3 is cancelled due to weather?
Any schedule changes or cancellations will be communicated by the event organiser via their official channels. We recommend checking the official organiser's page linked above 24 hours prior to the event for the most up-to-date status and wet-weather plans.
What types of motorsport events are covered on NZShift?

NZShift covers the full spectrum of NZ motorsport — from club-level circuit racing and open track days to national championship rounds, rally stages, drift events, drag racing, time attack, karting, and motorcycle racing. If it's happening on a track or road in New Zealand, it's here. If you cant' find it, let us know here!

Are track days in New Zealand open to the public?

Yes — many NZ track days welcome everyday drivers who want to experience a race circuit in a safe, controlled environment. You typically don't need a race licence; a road-legal car with a current WOF is enough for most events. Check each event listing on NZShift for specific entry requirements.

How do I find motorsport events near me in New Zealand?

Use the region filter on NZShift to browse events by location — North Island, South Island, or specific venues like Hampton Downs, Manfeild, Taupo Motorsport Park, Highlands, or Ruapuna. Every listing includes venue details and a map.

How often is the NZShift events calendar updated?

The NZShift calendar is updated continuously as new events are confirmed. Whether it's a one-off club day or a full championship round, we aim to have it listed as soon as it's officially announced.

Can I watch motorsport as a spectator in New Zealand?

Absolutely. Many NZ motorsport events are free or low-cost for spectators — championship rounds at venues like Hampton Downs and Highlands Motorsport Park regularly draw big crowds. Check each event listing on NZShift to see whether spectators are welcome and if tickets are required. That's exactly why NZShift exists — to bring more Kiwis to the track, whether you're a die-hard petrolhead or just looking for an unforgettable day out with the family. Motorsport isn't just a sport, it's a passion — and we want everyone to experience it.

What is the NZ motorsport season calendar?

New Zealand's motorsport season runs year-round, with the summer season (November–April) being the peak period for circuit racing and championships. Winter months tend to feature more rally events, hillclimbs, and off-road motorsport. NZShift keeps the full calendar up to date so you never miss an event.

How do I enter a motorsport event in New Zealand?

Entry requirements vary by event type. Club track days are usually open to any driver with a road-legal car. Competitive events often require a MotorSport NZ licence, a race-prepared vehicle, and advance entry. Each NZShift listing links directly to the organiser's entry page so you can register in one click.

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