Taupō International Motorsport Park and Christchurch’s Ruapuna Raceway are now officially locked in for back-to-back events in April 2026 as the Repco Supercars Championship returns to New Zealand for an historic two-week trans-island motorsport celebration.
Supercars will race in Taupō from April 10 – 12, followed by the inaugural South Island round at Ruapuna April 17 – 19, delivering the first-ever New Zealand double header in the championship’s history.
The Taupō event will mark Supercars’ third visit to the North Island circuit, before the action shifts to Christchurch for the debut of Supercars in the South Island.
The confirmation of dates follows Supercars’ announcement that Taupō and Ruapuna will share hosting duties for the next three years (2026–2028).
Supercars chief executive officer Shane Howard said the double header will be a highlight on the annual calendar.
“We saw over 67,000 fans attend our return to Taupō in 2024, and we’re excited to build on that success by bringing the championship to the South Island for the very first time.
“With two back-to-back events showcasing New Zealand’s best circuits, passionate fans, and iconic locations, April 2026 is set to be one of the biggest months in Supercars history.”
Taupō Member of Parliament and Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston welcomed the announcement of dates.
She felt it would encourage visitors to extend their trip and take the scenic route through both the islands.
“Supercars is a major drawcard with more than 3,300 international visitors attending the 2024 event in Taupō. I’m looking forward to seeing even more fans in 2026 and beyond as we continue to boost New Zealand’s reputation as a world-class destination.”
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger said Ruapuna’s debut event would inject millions into the local economy and put Christchurch on the global motorsport map.
Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas also felt the return of Supercars was a major win.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Supercars back to Taupō from 2026-2028. The energy, the visitors, and the global attention this event brings is huge for our district.
“Taupō is ready to once again roll out the red carpet for fans and teams from around the world, and we’re proud to play a key role in this historic New Zealand double header.”
Taupō International Motorsport Park CEO Josie Spillane said the team in Taupō had built an incredible base and relationship with Supercars.
“It’s fantastic to see off the back of that great partnership and massive kiwi fan engagement that motorsport is being backed even further by Major Events.”
The New Zealand Major Events fund has set aside $6.9 million over three years as part of the double header with $1m earmarked for Taupō and $1.3m for Christchurch in 2026.
Supercars said next year’s events were expected to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits, drawing thousands of fans from across the country and Australia.
Ticketing details, supporting categories and entertainment lineups for both rounds will be announced later this year.
For fans awaiting ticketing, corporate hospitality and grandstand information an expression of interest form is available at: 2026 Season Expression of Interest Form | Supercars
