Potential for tourism touted as buyer sought for Taupo track

FOR SALE: Taupo Motorsport Park is a popular circuit with local drivers. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

It could be the ultimate property for speed freaks - Taupo's Motorsport Park has been placed on the market for sale.

It is the only Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) Grade 2 motor racing facility in the country and the only New Zealand venue to have played host to the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport and the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) International Six Day Enduro.

The park was reopened in 2006 after undergoing improvements including the construction of a three-storey pit lane complex, track modification and work to ensure compliance with global motorsport industry standards.

Located just off State Highway 1, 3km north east of Taupo CBD, the park is regarded as one of the most picturesque racing venues in the world.

Bayleys commercial and industrial salesperson David Gubb said the park was already attracting interest from domestic and international buyers given its potential to capitalise on tourism, event hosting and business opportunities.

"Development plans are already in place to boost the cash flow past an existing $1 million per annum. Add-ons such as an off-road track, motorsport museum, cafe and other on-site tourism activities could make this facility into an international motorsport attraction and a national icon."

There is room for the erection of temporary grandstand seating and VIP, media and hospitality suites bringing the full spectator capacity to around 45,000 people. The main straight embankment gives fans commanding views of the entire 3.3km FIA Grade 2 circuit.

Mr Gubb said the complex held considerable appeal for racing teams, sponsors and promoters.

Other events regularly hosted at the venue include, but are not limited to, the V8 Supertourers, Toyota Racing Series, NZ Superbike Championships and the New Zealand Drifting Championships.