Supercars thanks NZ fans, partners for Taupō event support
29,562 people attended Taupō despite many challenges
Sunday action cancelled amid Cyclone Vaianu threat
120km race rescheduled to this weekend in Christchurch
Supercars thanks our New Zealand fans and partners, for their loyal support of the 2026 ITM Taupō Super 440.
29,562 people attended Taupō International Motorsport Park over Friday and Saturday, despite many challenges.
This included the unfortunate and unprecedented decision to cancel all Sunday racing, due to weather forecasts, safety-first concerns and advice of a state of local emergency.
Supercars also acknowledges and respects the difficulties being caused by the global fuel crisis, for fans travelling to events.
Fans who attended on Saturday witnessed the first victory on home soil for rising Kiwi superstar Ryan Wood – and the historic, breakthrough win for the new Toyota GR Supra.
Supercars Chair and Interim Chief Executive Officer, Barclay Nettlefold said: “We love the absolute passion of our Kiwi fans and this was on full display once again in Taupō this year.
“We’re also extremely grateful for their understanding of the call to cancel Sunday, to put their safety first.
“The clarity, guidance and support of the team at the Taupō District Council played a critical role and we thank them immensely for their partnership.”
New Zealand Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Louise Upston said: “Naturally it is disappointing for fans and all those involved to miss Sunday’s racing in Taupō, but the safety of the public, drivers and teams must always come first during an event like Cyclone Vaianu.
"Supercars’ decision has shown they are a responsible event organiser that place the highest value on the safety for all involved.”
“The opportunity now shifts to Christchurch, where there is real excitement building for a historic and highly anticipated weekend, as Supercars races in the South Island for the first time with a landmark opening day at the ITM Christchurch Super 440, including the addition of Race 10."
Taupō District Mayor John Funnell said: “We had great community participation for a formal welcome and the Track to Town on Thursday and fine weather for Friday and the extended racing schedule on Saturday. I particularly want to acknowledge the success of Kiwi driver Ryan Wood.
"As well as excitement at the track, we’ve seen the locals really engage with all the community events alongside Supercars. It’s heartening to see our district’s continued enthusiasm for Supercars and the large number of visitors it brings, many of whom are staying on.
“While we’re all disappointed that Sunday’s racing had to be cancelled, I applaud Supercars for their commitment to keeping spectators, drivers and everyone else safe.”
The Supercars Championship now moves to the South Island for the first time, with this week’s ITM Christchurch Super 440. Tickets can be purchased via Supercars.com.
