Thunder Ridge Motorsport Park in the Bay of Plenty will have a unique ownership structure amongst NZ race tracks – and it’s all about making the circuit and its events accessible to all. The circuit will operate as a non-profit sports trust – able to host regular events and activities, yet compelled to put its community and customers first.
All profits from operating the circuit will be reinvested in the venue’s further development. The initial circuit will be a basic club track, but over time, profits will allow for more car park sealing, clubhouse buildings, viewing areas, and the like.
There has been interest since the new circuit was announced. In addition to car enthusiasts buying up the overwhelming majority of the garage space planned for the track, there has been interest in on-track activity across all forms of automotive circuit racing in NZ.
Drifting, motorcycle racing, karting, track days, public open days and even cycling events are also likely to be on the agenda for the new track, and there has even been international interest in regards to running a round of an Asian championship at the track.
At its heart, though, Thunder Ridge will remain one hundred per cent community-focused.
It is unique in New Zealand in its ownership structure. As the only NZ circuit operating as a non-profit trust, it must always prioritise providing community recreation. As such, under the sports trust model, all profit must be reinvested in the circuit.
Amongst a variety of benefits, the Thunder Ridge ownership structure safeguards the land for public use. It potentially unlocks specialised funding and tax benefits – Sports Trusts in NZ can apply for specific grants from bodies that strictly exclude commercial or privately owned facilities.
That’s not just good fortune; it’s been an active objective by the group behind the new circuit, including “accessibility for the communities we will serve will always be paramount,” explained Chairman of Thunder Ridge Motorsport Park Trust, Tony Roberts.
“It always was from the moment we decided to embark on the project. Open-to-the-public days, track days, and a wide array of community-oriented activities, on top of the bread-and-butter motorsport, are the way to go for the future; we are convinced of that.
“We even plan to launch the track to the region by allowing every ratepayer to bring along their car and have a drive around with only a small administration charge.
“We want their interest, we want them to be part of the facility’s future, and of course we want them to be engaged with everything that will happen on the track so it becomes an integral part of the community and develops and operates as a high-quality facility that is genuinely customer focused.”
Header Image: Supplied
