New Kiwi track expands opportunities
The creators of a new circuit in New Zealand say it will be a valuable addition to the Kiwi racing scene.
The circuit, which will be called Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, will be located near the current Meremere drag strip and oval, in North Waikato, just South of Auckland.
Some 400 acres of farmland on which to build the Motorsport Park have already been purchased by two long-time Motorsport enthusiasts, Tony Roberts and Chris Watson, who along with Geoff Manning have previously been mainly involved with Historic Racing. Finance for the multi million dollar project is already in place.
“We are just guys who love Motorsport and are increasingly frustrated at the problems with finding a suitable venue on which to run and promote modern Motorsport,” says Roberts.
“We are not trying to muscle in on the Australian V8 Supercar Championship or stymie any other plans to further develop Pukekohe, Taupo or Manfeild circuits. Rather, we support their plans as by upgrading their facilities and the promotion of Motorsport, with the addition of our modern circuit, the whole profile and popularity of Motorsport will be raised. However, should there be any problems with the Auckland City road circuit, then we will have a suitable alternative in the Greater Auckland area.”
Hampton Downs circuit – which has already been designed – will be 3.8km in length, over undulating countryside. It has been configured so that it can also be divided into two separate circuits – one 2.6km in length and the other 1-1km for club circuit type racing. It will be built to FIA category 2 level – a higher level than any other current circuit in New Zealand and easily upgradeable to category 1 (for races such as Formula 1) should there be that requirement.
A major feature of Hampton Downs Motorsport Park will be 60 - 80 apartments built at trackside. These two storied apartments will offer enthusiasts, companies, teams, investors – whoever – an opportunity to be an integral part of the Motorsport scene in the upper North Island. These two-bedroom apartments, with a ground level double garage, will have unimpeded views over much of the circuit.
Finances are in place to construct the circuit once the necessary planning consents are in place. It is expected this process will be completed next year, with a possible 2007 opening date.
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