The Repco Supercars Championship has confirmed a New Zealand double-header will take place for at least the next three seasons following the addition of Ruapana to the calendar.
It will be a historic event for Supercars as it will be the first to be held on New Zealand’s South Island and confirms the long-held rumour of two events across the Tasman.
This follows a successful return to New Zealand for Supercars after Taupo International Motorsport Park debuted in 2024 to sold out crowds.
Ruapana Raceway is just 15km from Christchurch and run by the Canterbury Car Club, with the venue opening in 1963.
Gradual upgrades through its history are highlighted by the extension of the circuit in 1993 to 3.330km alongside a raft of other renovations.
Supercars CEO Shane Howard is excited to add a second New Zealand event to cater to the country’s passionate fanbase.
“This is an incredibly exciting day for Supercars and for fans across New Zealand.
“We’ve always wanted to race in the South Island, and thanks to the commitment of the New
Zealand Government, ChristchurchNZ, Christchurch City Council and the incredible work of the
Canterbury Car Club, that dream will become a reality from 2026,” Howard said.
“Christchurch is a motorsport city, and Ruapuna is a circuit with huge potential. This is a passionate community with a proud history, and we are thrilled to bring Supercars to the South Island for the first time.
“Since Supercars’ first visit to New Zealand in 2001, more than 2.3 million fans have attended championship events across the country and we’re thrilled to be bringing a second event to the country that makes up 20 per cent of our total audience.
“We know what Supercars means to New Zealanders. This is going to be a two-week celebration of Kiwi motorsport that will rival any on our calendar.”
As part of the deal, Ruapana Raceway will receive a multimillion-dollar upgrade prior to Supercars’ visit to enhance sustainability, accessibility and facilities through a rebuilt supporters’ lounge in addition to track re-surfacing.
“For more than 20 years Supercars Championship events have played an important role showcasing our beautiful country to an international audience and I’m thrilled the South Island will now be part of this from next year,” New Zealand Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said.
“I’m pleased that with this investment from our Major Events Fund, New Zealand’s strong relationship with Supercars will continue in Taupo and extend to include Christchurch, with all the benefits that brings.”
Further to the addition of Ruapana, Taupo has also extended its deal to the end of 2028.
“Locking in Supercars until 2028 is
a huge vote of confidence in what we’ve built at Taupō.
“From day one, we’ve wanted to make this one of the best motorsport experiences in the Southern Hemisphere, and Supercars has been a huge part of that vision,” said Taupo International Motorsport Park owner Tony Quinn.
“The feedback from fans, teams, and drivers has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re only just getting started.”
“With Taupō and now Ruapuna on the calendar, New Zealand’s motorsport scene is stepping onto the world stage like never before.”
Further details regarding Ruapana’s round will be revealed in due course.