Hampton Downs – Meremere 

When was the track built?

Opened in 2009, after five years of hard work and dedication of two motorsport enthusiasts, it has hosted small events until 2016, when it was purchased by Tony Quinn and was extended to a multi-layout 3.8km track, attracting more important events.
Due to the Covid pandemic all events have stopped, but with an agreement with the new Formula One Organization it will be included as the fourth New Zealander circuit in the Database, pending road widening and run-off area extension works, the installation of TecPro barriers and a complete re-pavement of the surface.

When was its first Grand Prix?

It will be the first race ever on this circuit.
It is one of the four New Zealander circuits that will be featured in the Oceania Continental Series calendar.

What’s the circuit like?

The overall shape may remind of Interlagos, with a long bended main straight, followed by a second one, which are the two best overtaking options.
The central part is snaking, with medium-speed sweeping corners, where traction and downforce will be extremely important; the final curves are two hairpins, the first one tight and slow and the last one wide and fast, where the exit speed is critical for preparing the dive in Turn 1.
Despite being only 3.8km long, it’s a complete and technical circuit.

Where is it located?

At Meremere on New Zealand’s north island, approximately 60 km south of Auckland and 65 km north of Hamilton, served by both airports. (- 37°21’18”, +175°04’39”).