Motorsport: New tools and surface add to fans' experience

Western Springs Speedway. Photo / Richard Robinson.

Auckland motorsport fans will enjoy an interactive experience at WxC Speedway-Western Springs as the 85-year-old venue launches free Wi-Fi and live streaming.

Tonight's opening round Auckland Championship event will be the first opportunity for punters to access free Wi-Fi throughout the venue, along with a new smartphone app featuring live lap scoring and results.

"We are really excited to offer fans this new technology and help bring speedway into the modern era," said Springs Speedway promoter Bill Buckley.

"We already have an incredibly knowledgeable fan base so this will only enhance the overall viewing experience."

Another major new initiative this season is the introduction of live online streaming of the racing, available all around the world.

"Everything fans see live on the big screen at Western Springs will be broadcast online to subscribers around the globe," Buckley said.

Other developments include a new partnership with Ticketek, which allows fans to buy tickets online and a complete overhaul of the racing surface, with over 2000 tonnes of clay from Hunua.