The fight to see Supercars race at Highlands Motorsport Park is far from over, with Highlands CEO Josie Spillane and track owner Tony Quinn unveiling “Project 29” at Queensland Raceway during one of the recent rounds, held just before last weekend’s Enduro Cup opener at The Bend Motorsport Park.
While Ruapuna Raceway has secured a three-year deal to host Supercars from 2026, attention is already turning to what happens next.
Could Highlands take over in 2029, or will Ruapuna continue beyond its initial agreement? For Spillane, the answer is clear — she’s pushing to bring Supercars to Cromwell, sparking the birth of “Project 29.”
Quinn, who has entrusted Spillane with leading the charge, said the vision is entirely her own.
“She is one of the best people I’ve ever employed, and she’s the CEO, so her mission – it’s her mission, not mine – is to get the V8s to come to Highlands in 2029,” Quinn told Speedcafe.
“So that’s her Project 29. It’s maybe a tall order, I don’t know, but there is a lot of water to go under the bridge between now and then.
“I think the V8s are in a good place. I think that if James (Warburton, Supercars CEO) can get permission and get some wind in his sails, I think he’ll do a far, far better job than has been done in the last five to 10 years.
“I’m all about supporting people that want to do shit, so Josie’s working on that one. That’s Josie’s Project 29.”
Quinn praised Spillane for her persistence and passion, crediting her with keeping the dream alive.
“She’s putting out there, she’s telling you fair and square that that’s what she wants to do. So we’ll see,” he added.
Before any potential switch in 2029, Supercars is set to make history with its first-ever South Island event at Ruapuna Raceway, west of Christchurch.
The Kiwi double-header kicks off at Taupo International Motorsport Park on 10–12 April 2026, before heading south to Ruapuna on 17–19 April 2026.
In preparation, Ruapuna is undergoing a significant transformation. The community-run venue has launched a long-term rejuvenation project designed to elevate its facilities to international standards.
The upgrades include:
- Track resurfacing and kerb adjustments
- Drainage improvements
- Updated flag point lights and cameras
- Rebuild the supporter’s lounge
- Expanded control tower with upgraded race control technology
- New changing rooms and toilet facilities
A major highlight will be the relocation of pit lane garages, with new purpose-built structures, additional corporate suites, and spectator viewing platforms. Even the children’s playground will be modernised to ensure the venue remains family-friendly.
Ruapuna’s addition to the Supercars calendar marks a watershed moment for the series and New Zealand motorsport.
Just 15 kilometres from Christchurch’s city centre, the circuit has long been a hub for grassroots racing. Now, it will host the country’s biggest motorsport event, cementing its place on the international stage.
Whether “Project 29” sees Highlands take the reins after Ruapuna’s three-year run remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the battle to bring Supercars to the South Island has only just begun.
Header Image: Jessica Barnes / Blissful Photography
