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NZRC Round 5 across Northland this weekend — Fri 26 Sep ceremonial start, Sat-Sun gravel stages. Championship fight: Stokes leads Hawkeswood by just 1 point. Ben Hunt enters as surprise tactical wildcard for the Hawkeswood camp.
The Vertex Oil International Rally of Whangarei is one of New Zealand's most celebrated rally events and a cornerstone of the NZRC calendar — spreading across the Whangarei and Kaipara districts over a full three-day programme that showcases Northland's spectacular mix of forest, farmland, and coastal roads. The format starts with a Friday evening ceremonial start in downtown Whangarei, where cars and crews parade through the city before the competition gets serious. A Pohe Island Super Special Stage often runs Friday evening near the Town Basin, giving fans a chance to watch cars race in close succession on sealed surfaces before the gravel stages take over Saturday and Sunday. With over 280km of competitive driving across closed roads, the event draws New Zealand's top Rally2 machinery alongside historic, classic, and modified production cars — a full spectrum of rallying in one weekend. Service park access is free and open to al
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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.
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