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Seven-day North Island gravel marathon — 1,054km of closed-road stages through Rotorua, East Coast, Hawke's Bay and the Central Plateau. One of the world's great rally events. Free spectating.
The NZ Silver Fern Rally is one of the great gravel marathon rallies on the world calendar — and in 2026 it returns to the North Island for the first time since the 2022 edition, starting and finishing in Rotorua over seven epic days. The 2026 route covers 1,054km of closed-road Special Stages across some of the most spectacular terrain in the country: Rotorua's flowing gravel hinterland, Waitomo's classic King Country roads, the East Coast leg to Gisborne, iconic Hawke's Bay gravel, and the Central Plateau finish back through Ohakune and Rotorua. Among the stages is the legendary Motu Road, where Colin McRae won his first WRC stage in 1993 — roads that rally history was made on and that attract historic machinery and international competitors from the UK, Australia, and Europe every two years. Five competition formats — Historic (the overall title), Challenge Trophy Modern 2WD, Classic 4WD, Time Trial, and Silver Frond — make this one of the most accessible marathon rallies in the world. The paddock is open and welcoming, the small-town hospitality along the route is legendary, and spectator entry at most stages is free.
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[Name] is scheduled for [Date]. Always check this listing for the latest schedule and any changes before you head along.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Seven-day North Island gravel marathon — 1,054km of closed-road stages through Rotorua, East Coast, Hawke's Bay and the Central Plateau. One of the world's great rally events. Free spectating.
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