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Supercars are “assessing available options” with Cyclone Vaianu likely to impact racing in Taupō this weekend.
The ITM Taupo Super440 takes place at Taupō Motorsport Park, with races 8, 9 and 10 of the championship contested over the weekend.
One rare red and 22 orange rain and wind alerts havebeen issued across the North Island, as the “multi-hazard”, potentially life-threatening cyclone approaches New Zealand.
In a statement this afternoon, Supercars said it was working closely with local and government officials, emergency services and event stakeholders to monitor forecast activity from Cyclone Vaianu.
“We are undertaking internal contingency planning and assessing available options should conditions deteriorate as currently predicted.”
Race organisers said the ITM Taupō Super 440 would proceed as scheduled “at this stage” with a further update due at 4pm today.
“Supercars will take all measures to ensure public safety and responsibility at this event.”
Meanwhile, motorsport fans heading to Taupō for the event are being urged to plan their journeys carefully, with heavy traffic expected across the region.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) said traffic volumes were forecast to rise from today as racegoers begin travelling for the weekend’s events.
Drivers are encouraged to allow extra time for their journeys and to check the NZTA journey planner for the latest traffic conditions before setting off.
With crowds of up to 20,000 people expected at Taupō International Motorsport Park each day, congestion is expected throughout the weekend.
“We expect high traffic volumes on the roads in and around Taupō during the Supercars event,” NZTA Waikato journey manager Andrew Brosnan said.
“People travelling on State Highways 1 and 5 through the central North Island should expect delays as they approach Taupō and plan accordingly.”
Crowds of up to 20,000 people are expected at Taupō International Motorsport Park each day. Photo / Mark Horsburgh
For spectators attending the event, parking at Taupō International Motorsport Park will be available via the State Highway 1 Centennial Ave interchange only, with no access from Broadlands Rd.
Traffic management will be in place to support safe vehicle movements and manage congestion.
Fans are also encouraged to take advantage of the free shuttle service from central Taupō. Further information on transport options is available on the Supercars website.
NZTA is also monitoring Cyclone Vaianu.
The agency is preparing for potential disruption to the state highway network and is advising travellers to check weather conditions before travelling and stay up to date via its journey planner.
To help ease congestion within the town, people staying in Taupō, particularly those arriving from the north via SH1 or SH5, are advised to use the SH1 East Taupō interchanges rather than Wairakei Drive.
