.webp)
NZRC Round 4 returns to Hawke's Bay for the first time since 2022 — a comeback story four years in the making. Closed-road gravel rally through the region's iconic back country.
Rally Hawke's Bay returns to the Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship for the first time since 2022 — and the story behind its absence makes the comeback all the more powerful. Cyclone Gabrielle devastated the region in early 2023, damaging roads and forcing the NZRC to look elsewhere for several seasons. That the championship is back in Hawke's Bay in 2026 is both a sporting event and a statement of regional resilience. Round 4 of six, the Hawke's Bay round typically runs across closed public gravel roads in and around the greater Hawke's Bay region, with all the speed and spectacle that come with watching New Zealand's best rally crews attack the clock on roads that double as driveways for local farmers. With the championship fight reaching mid-season intensity by August, expect high stakes and high speed in equal measure.
Are you an organizer or club looking for more entries and spectators? Get your event in front of hardcore motorsport fans by featuring it in our weekly Friday Roundup.
LIST YOUR EVENT FOR FREEThis event's part of NZ's motorsport scene. See what's on, or find out how to get started yourself.
Explore This CategoryEvery NZ motorsport event happening this weekend — in your inbox every Friday morning. One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Free · Every Friday
[Name] is scheduled for [Date]. Always check this listing for the latest schedule and any changes before you head along.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
NZRC Round 4 returns to Hawke's Bay for the first time since 2022 — a comeback story four years in the making. Closed-road gravel rally through the region's iconic back country.
NZShift lists events for discovery only. We never sell tickets or take payments — always buy through the official organiser.
