V8 racers check out slow lane

The annual V8 Supercars weekend kicks off today at Pukekohe's historic raceway. Photo / Greg Bowker

The sound of grunty engines filled Auckland's main street yesterday as V8 Supercar drivers cruised a lap ahead of their big weekend at Pukekohe.

The annual V8 Supercars weekend kicks off today at the town's historic raceway.

Drivers will spend the day practising before two races tomorrow and a 200km feature race on Sunday. Australian drivers Craig Lowndes (centre) and Jamie Whincup (right) took in the sights during yesterday's drive up to Aotea Square.

Lowndes is a three-time V8 Supercar champion and holds the record for the most race wins in the history of the Australian Touring Car Championship and V8 Supercar Championship. Whincup has six championships to his name.