Waikaraka Park speedway track is primed to welcome speedway fans for the new season following the completion of a $11 million upgrade project that has transformed the historic venue.
Auckland Council’s Waikaraka Park has hosted speedway racing since 1967, but when racing returns on Saturday 29 November, it will boast the first new speedway track built in New Zealand in nearly 25 years.
The upgrade project has included a purpose-built new track, speedway safety wall and catch fence, new lighting and improved toilet facilities, alongside enhanced safety features and a restored heritage wall that honours the track’s storied history. A new pit area will now house up to 130 racers at a time, 40 more than the old set-up.
Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown said he was pleased to see the facility upgraded and ready to race.
“It’s great to see these upgrades completed in time for Waikaraka Park speedway to open for families to enjoy summer. It’s clear that Aucklanders love and use this venue, and places like this help contribute to a thriving Auckland,” he said.
Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Ward Councillor, Josephine Bartley, also applauded the upgrade project being completed on time.
“These essential upgrades were an investment to support the long-term sustainability of the sport in Auckland, and I know will be enjoyed by Aucklanders and racing enthusiasts from across the country for generations to come,” she said.
Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board Chair, Debbie Burrows, also welcomed the opening of the all-new track – designed by an architect who is also a former speedway driver – and greatly improved facility.
“Waikaraka Park is a beloved asset for this community and these upgrades will be transformative for how this facility can operate in the future,” she said.
“The Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board has always supported and sought long-term investment in Waikaraka Park through our approved Waikaraka Park masterplan, and now we look forward to the new racing opportunities made possible through these upgrades. We know drivers and fans are excited to see racing on the upgraded track on Saturday for the first time”.
Council agency, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), delivered the upgrade project on behalf of the local board. TAU Chief Executive, Nick Hill says the new facility helps to secure the future of speedway in Auckland.
“We are pleased to see this project delivered to scope, in time for another exciting speedway season in Tāmaki Makaurau,” he said.
“Aucklanders and visitors can now enjoy a modern, international-standard speedway facility, with faster racing and an improved fan experience.
“With a long-term deal secured that guarantees the presence of four-wheel speedway classes at Waikaraka Park, it is great to have a facility that preserves the viability of speedway in Auckland for years to come.”
Waikaraka Park has a secure lease in place until 2051, with longtime tenant Auckland Stock & Saloon Car Club. The lease now secures the long-term presence of all four-wheel speedway classes, including the open wheel classes that previously raced at Western Springs.
The new speedway season begins at Waikaraka Park this Saturday 29 November, with stock and saloon car racing. Open-wheel speedway classes begin their Auckland season on Saturday 13 December.
