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View Full Version : New motorsport venue



ellipsis
22nd May 2012, 10:22
...sounds rather exciting, if it flies....

http://www.drivesouth.co.nz/news/1039/20-million-cromwell-motorsport-park-all-go-graphic

Asher
22nd May 2012, 10:32
That would be cool, but that article is almost 5 years old......

SWERVE
22nd May 2012, 10:32
Thats been on the cards for years.......... suppose this is at least one step closer.
Might herald the end for Teretonga! if it happens.
Hope that layout is changed..........whats with all the straights (will probebly be designed with cars in mind)
Please not another flat race track........build in on the side of a big hill:yes:

Crasherfromwayback
22nd May 2012, 10:35
Please not another flat race track........build in on the side of a big hill:yes:

Wot he says.

ellipsis
22nd May 2012, 10:59
That would be cool, but that article is almost 5 years old......



...sorry, I couldn't find anything older to run alongside the "brand new" thread about the dangers of riding at the IOM...

Shorty_925
22nd May 2012, 11:10
Limited to 12 events per year.

Asher
22nd May 2012, 11:30
Please not another flat race track........build in on the side of a big hill:yes:

An NZ Luguna Seca! :sweatdrop:sweatdrop:sweatdrop

Crasherfromwayback
22nd May 2012, 12:16
An NZ Luguna Seca! :sweatdrop:sweatdrop:sweatdrop

Even the Aussies have built tracks on the side of hills. Lakeside in Brisbane was awesome to ride.

Maido
22nd May 2012, 15:27
search --> http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/53077-New-race-track-planned-for-Cromwell?highlight=cromwell+race+track



Interesting you should post this now. The track has been on the cards for a very very long time (hence 5 year old news article as someone has pointed out). However recently there has been an update on this. The owner of an Australian pet food manufacturing business has recently brought out the NZ owners and is looking to pump around $20 mill into this. (I will try and find the associated article and paste it in at the bottom).
The word in the pipeline is that the track will be a race track, however the main point of it is to be used as a test track. Already in the area is the Snow Farm test facility, this is where the major car and tyre manufacturers send their upcoming model prototypes to be tested in all types of conditions. That area is very prone to extremes so the data they get is very important. They test there and 5 years later the cars come out on the market etc. So one would imagine that this facility will have strong links to that.
Reality is that the track will have limited yearly usage, due to weather (a lot of snow in winter and cold temps) and also noise constraints. It is situated in a valley, I imagine the noise will bounce around the hills bit.

I am very excited about the prospects of another quality track in the South Island, especially so close to Invers, I don't think it will be the end for teretonga, it is really NZ's only really flowing track (minus the last turn), none of this starty stopy nonesence everyone builds these days!.
Hopefully it will draw more competition down this way.

SWERVE
22nd May 2012, 21:04
Agree about Teretonga being a flowing track as you say Maido......... and yes if only something could be done with last corner it would be great.
Im sure you would love another track..that you didnt have to take a week to get to & from eh.:woohoo:

DerekP
22nd May 2012, 21:30
Interestingly enough I was in Cromwell earlier this month and while talking to a customer the topic of the race track came up. According to him the track is due to be started next month (June), with the first event being early 2013.
Although as motorcycle racers I doubt we should get to excited, if that article is anything to go by...they are talking 12 race meetings per year. By time the local car clubs and V8 racing series has their turn there will be bugger all time left for bikes. Although it would be very cool to get a couple of events their a year...

slowpoke
22nd May 2012, 21:36
Agree about Teretonga being a flowing track as you say Maido......... and yes if only something could be done with last corner it would be great.
Im sure you would love another track..that you didnt have to take a week to get to & from eh.:woohoo:

Yeah, it's a cool (bloody freezing if truth be told) wee track.....but why the hell couldn't they build it at Nelson!

Disco_Stu
23rd May 2012, 19:35
Yeah, it's a cool (bloody freezing if truth be told) wee track.....but why the hell couldn't they build it at Nelson!

You may be in luck as Adcock & Donaldson are in the process of getting approvals to build a motor sports park in the Stanley Brook valley near Nelson. They are talking about having a sealed circuit. mx track, kart track, a mountain bike trail and a rally course all on the 250 hectares they have there.
They just have to get resource consent and try to get it past the greenie neighbours.

Kickaha
23rd May 2012, 20:00
You may be in luck as Adcock & Donaldson are in the process of getting approvals to build a motor sports park in the Stanley Brook valley near Nelson. They are talking about having a sealed circuit. mx track, kart track, a mountain bike trail and a rally course all on the 250 hectares they have there.
They just have to get resource consent and try to get it past the greenie neighbours.

It's been over five years since I first heard about it so don't hold your breath waiting

Feasibilty report for Stanley Brook Motorsport park (http://www.google.co.nz/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFUQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tasman.govt.nz%2Fdocument%2Fs erve%2FFeasibility%2520Report.pdf%3Fpath%3D%2FEDMS %2FPublic%2FOther%2FProperty%2FResourceConsents%2F NotifiedResourceConsentApplications%2FAdcockAndDon aldsonMotorsport%2F000000184403&ei=HJm8T-CDDOafiAehkLC7Dw&usg=AFQjCNHQAxO9-l7vnHyJN8IKmE3T9oAVdw&sig2=2MjQoal9rPaB-ECthGyUfQ)

http://www.tasman.govt.nz/property/resource-consents/notified-resource-consent-applications/applications-awaiting-hearings/adcock-and-donaldson-properties-ltd-motorsport-park-stanley-brook/#applicant

Oh yeah they'll build on the river flats fuck them

SWERVE
23rd May 2012, 22:35
You may be in luck as Adcock & Donaldson are in the process of getting approvals to build a motor sports park in the Stanley Brook valley near Nelson. They are talking about having a sealed circuit. mx track, kart track, a mountain bike trail and a rally course all on the 250 hectares they have there.
They just have to get resource consent and try to get it past the greenie neighbours.

Yeah that one has been in the planning stages for a few years too. Having a multi discipline venue would be the way to get any kind of return IMHO. Good location too.
Good bloke Gary Donaldson, used to drive a Triumph TR8 rally car when i was in that scene a few years ago.

suzuki21
24th May 2012, 03:22
and yes if only something could be done with last corner it would be great.

Dont bash tight last corners, I enjoyed the last corner at Teretonga so much one year I decided to lay down for a sleep during a race and have 4 months of work with a sore foot. It was most enjoyable.

SWERVE
24th May 2012, 10:11
Many have also taken a nap at that very same corner. Sure is responsibkle for many having a few weeks holiday from work also. Glad you enjoyed the rest:msn-wink:

Rcktfsh
24th May 2012, 10:48
search --> http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/53077-New-race-track-planned-for-Cromwell?highlight=cromwell+race+track



Interesting you should post this now. The track has been on the cards for a very very long time (hence 5 year old news article as someone has pointed out). However recently there has been an update on this. The owner of an Australian pet food manufacturing business has recently brought out the NZ owners and is looking to pump around $20 mill into this. (I will try and find the associated article and paste it in at the bottom).
The word in the pipeline is that the track will be a race track, however the main point of it is to be used as a test track. Already in the area is the Snow Farm test facility, this is where the major car and tyre manufacturers send their upcoming model prototypes to be tested in all types of conditions. That area is very prone to extremes so the data they get is very important. They test there and 5 years later the cars come out on the market etc. So one would imagine that this facility will have strong links to that.
Reality is that the track will have limited yearly usage, due to weather (a lot of snow in winter and cold temps) and also noise constraints. It is situated in a valley, I imagine the noise will bounce around the hills bit.

I am very excited about the prospects of another quality track in the South Island, especially so close to Invers, I don't think it will be the end for teretonga, it is really NZ's only really flowing track (minus the last turn), none of this starty stopy nonesence everyone builds these days!.
Hopefully it will draw more competition down this way.

Tony Quine (Aussie pet food man reffered to) was also rumoured to be in discussions with Hampton Downs owners/banks.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10798978

PSYCHO
24th May 2012, 10:57
You may be in luck as Adcock & Donaldson are in the process of getting approvals to build a motor sports park in the Stanley Brook valley near Nelson. They are talking about having a sealed circuit. mx track, kart track, a mountain bike trail and a rally course all on the 250 hectares they have there.
They just have to get resource consent and try to get it past the greenie neighbours.

there's been talk of a complex for decades.

marlborough would be the place

Shorty_925
24th May 2012, 11:12
marlborough would be the place

Too many vines around

Asher
13th June 2012, 20:59
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/579978_115734415233001_2057444811_n.jpg

tigertim20
13th June 2012, 22:48
Too many vines around

being from marlborough, I can think of half a dozen places you could build a minter track - its be good too, just a ferry away from wellywood

Kickaha
14th June 2012, 06:43
being from marlborough, I can think of half a dozen places you could build a minter track -

They had a minter track, it was called Hawksbury, facilities were a bit crap though

Grumph
14th June 2012, 07:11
They had a minter track, it was called Hawksbury, facilities were a bit crap though

Facilities were no worse than a lot of other temporary tracks of the time...

You'd never get it approved now though, even if it wasn't built up around. WAY too fast...and if I remember right, several humpback bridges where you were aimed at barbed wire fences with very little room....added to the flavour though.

The humps added another dimension...I had a go last lap of practise and got the Yam right off the gound 8 times....good fun.

Maido
14th June 2012, 08:07
Heading to Cromwell this weekend, might pop over tot he track area and have a look.....

jellywrestler
14th June 2012, 11:07
there's been talk of a complex for decades.

marlborough would be the place

problem is with Marlborough is you need a population base to support it, and they don't have one substantial enough to do so

Grumph
14th June 2012, 13:00
problem is with Marlborough is you need a population base to support it, and they don't have one substantial enough to do so

That's changing - reputedly, more have gone North to Blenheim from ChCh than South to Timaru...The problem though is that like where the major Rugby ground is to be, Blenheim and Nelson are in competition and can't compromise.
A small population base didn't stop the South Canty Car club building Levels in the 60's...If you want it enough it can be done.

Kickaha
14th June 2012, 17:48
problem is with Marlborough is you need a population base to support it, and they don't have one substantial enough to do so

It is already underway up near Nelson, but it's been "ongoing" for a few years

tigertim20
14th June 2012, 18:37
They had a minter track, it was called Hawksbury, facilities were a bit crap though

ah the old road race track there, my uncle arsed off on that track many many moons ago, on a Norton I think, at about 100 miles an hour. didnt make him any more humble though - he's still a cunt.

quite a few dirt bike tracks there too, hidden away at the back of peoples farms etc, but far enough away from the houses that you could go do 100 laps of the moto-x track on a summery school evening and nobody would know - good times.


I dont think the population is as important as the location, in marlborough is going to draw interest from nelson, west coast, christchurch and wellywood. I dont see it happening unless someone wins lotto and donates the proceeds to a track though

roadracingoldfart
14th June 2012, 19:22
Please not another flat race track........build in on the side of a big hill:yes:

We dont have hills in New Zealand do we !!! :rolleyes:



Wot he says.

Think about an uphill Le-Mans start :killingme :msn-wink: :niceone:

nsrpaul
17th June 2012, 10:00
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.stuff.co.nz%2Fnelson-mail%2Fsport%2F7109499%2FMotorsport-park-gets-go-ahead&h=xAQEfhstO

:eek:

nsrpaul
17th June 2012, 10:01
http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/sport/7109499/Motorsport-park-gets-go-ahead

Maido
17th June 2012, 13:19
*waits for future thread about the price of racing cos we have to many good tracks to race at and its not fair some people can afford to do all the rounds. Waaaa waaaa waaaa first world problems

Crasherfromwayback
17th June 2012, 19:34
*waits for future thread about the price of racing cos we have to many good tracks to race at and its not fair some people can afford to do all the rounds. Waaaa waaaa waaaa first world problems

lol. Only a real sad cunt would cry about that!

Maido
17th June 2012, 20:43
lol. Only a real sad cunt would cry about that!

It's kiwi biker you realise

Crasherfromwayback
17th June 2012, 21:07
It's kiwi biker you realise

This much is true. My bad!

ellipsis
16th July 2012, 11:33
... track formed and Fulton Hogan doing a 48 hour continuous pour before November, ready to go fast on by Jan/Feb 2013...so the phone call from an interested observer down that way (Cromwell) told me yesterday...

tigertim20
16th July 2012, 18:03
... track formed and Fulton Hogan doing a 48 hour continuous pour before November, ready to go fast on by Jan/Feb 2013...so the phone call from an interested observer down that way (Cromwell) told me yesterday...

doesnt sound right to me.

Here in dunedin, they did a continuous 10 hour pour just to do a bridge - Id have thought it would take more than 48 hours to do a whole track.

FJRider
16th July 2012, 18:10
Work on the motorsport track in cromwell started three weeks ago.

FJRider
19th July 2012, 21:39
A few photo's of the new Motorsport park ... now being built in Cromwell.

FJRider
19th July 2012, 21:42
A few more....

FJRider
20th July 2012, 07:53
doesnt sound right to me.

Here in dunedin, they did a continuous 10 hour pour just to do a bridge - Id have thought it would take more than 48 hours to do a whole track.

The "pour" they mention will most likely be of asphalt ... not concrete.

Sarah311
23rd July 2012, 23:33
The "pour" they mention will most likely be of asphalt ... not concrete.

Is this really happening? I've seen various comments over time about a new track and then lots of poo-pooing... If it is - Yeeha! Cherries, Apricots, sun, hot track and no bastards moaning about noise anywhere nearby! Perfect!

Asher
24th July 2012, 09:27
Is this really happening? I've seen various comments over time about a new track and then lots of poo-pooing... If it is - Yeeha! Cherries, Apricots, sun, hot track and no bastards moaning about noise anywhere nearby! Perfect!

If the pictures are anything to go by......

Although i would say there will be about of people complaining about the noise there, being in a valley and beside a lake you cant really pick a worse landscape for acoustics.

ellipsis
24th July 2012, 09:33
Although i would say there will be a bout of people complaining about the noise there,

...I suppose a bunch of people wanting to fight could be described as a 'bout'...

Fast Eddie
24th July 2012, 09:48
any track layout/shape plans online? will the track have elevations etc. up hills and downhills n shit. should chuck a cork screw in like laguna seca.

they should build one in dunedin

Asher
24th July 2012, 09:53
http://www.drivesouth.co.nz/files/user19/motorsportprk.jpg

SWERVE
24th July 2012, 12:55
If thats run anti clockwise.... the first 1/2 a lap will be great but 2nd half!!!!!!
90 deg left will be a late brakers dream (T1) especially after a long run down 2 straights and a fast looking left sweeper.

k14
24th July 2012, 17:56
any track layout/shape plans online? will the track have elevations etc. up hills and downhills n shit. should chuck a cork screw in like laguna seca.

they should build one in dunedin
The land it's on is dead flat so I am guessing the track will be too.

FJRider
24th July 2012, 18:08
Is this really happening? I've seen various comments over time about a new track and then lots of poo-pooing... If it is - Yeeha! Cherries, Apricots, sun, hot track and no bastards moaning about noise anywhere nearby! Perfect!

Yep ... it is really happening. The track will be pretty much dead flat. With an existing stock car track at one end ... and a motorcross track at the other end ... with the northern border an industrial area. I doubt if noise complaints will be an issue.

The biggest number of residents are in Cemetery road ... in the cemetery. And they haven't said much ... so far ...

Here's a google maps look at street view of the area .....

<iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=q&amp;source=embed&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=Cemetery+Ro ad,+Cromwell,+Otago&amp;aq=0&amp;oq=Cemetery+road,+crom&amp;sl l=-41.244772,172.617188&amp;sspn=15.819269,21.665039&amp;ie=U TF8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=Cemetery+Rd,+Cromwell,+Otago&amp;ll=-45.054133,169.174993&amp;spn=0.000061,0.021157&amp;t=m&amp;z=1 4&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-45.054282,169.17396&amp;panoid=Jusngh-_xwcU4M649aF0vQ&amp;cbp=12,225,,0,0&amp;output=svembed"></iframe><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=q&amp;source=embed&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=Cemetery+Ro ad,+Cromwell,+Otago&amp;aq=0&amp;oq=Cemetery+road,+crom&amp;sl l=-41.244772,172.617188&amp;sspn=15.819269,21.665039&amp;ie=U TF8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=Cemetery+Rd,+Cromwell,+Otago&amp;ll=-45.054133,169.174993&amp;spn=0.000061,0.021157&amp;t=m&amp;z=1 4&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-45.054282,169.17396&amp;panoid=Jusngh-_xwcU4M649aF0vQ&amp;cbp=12,225,,0,0" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small>

Padmei
24th July 2012, 19:10
And I love that it's just a hop skip & jump away from.......... um.......Where's Cromwell?

I agree Marlborough would be the perfect place for one - easy to get from Nelson, chch, west coast & Wellywood. Heaps of land there for sale now:yes:

FJRider
24th July 2012, 20:31
And I love that it's just a hop skip & jump away from.......... um.......Where's Cromwell?

I agree Marlborough would be the perfect place for one - easy to get from Nelson, chch, west coast & Wellywood. Heaps of land there for sale now:yes:

It's bloody handy for me ... just down the road.

Where's Nelson again ... ??? North or south island ... ??? :scratch:

Sarah311
24th July 2012, 22:09
Does anyone know how long the track will be??

I love Teretonga track, just not it's unreliable location weather-wise, so will be hoping this track will be a suitable length and sanction for a national round in due course...
Course I'll also be hoping it doesn't cost a zillion dollars to use it too!

RobGassit
25th July 2012, 08:09
It looks a little like Taupo to me.

ellipsis
25th July 2012, 09:23
...three and a half k's... cant verify that... was told...

SWERVE
25th July 2012, 12:47
It looks a little like Taupo to me.

I was just thinking the same last nite Rob.... similar shape, just some bits squashed and others stretched a bit.

Dave-
25th July 2012, 17:20
...three and a half k's... cant verify that... was told...

any idea what version that is? 3.5k is pretty massive for the wee short bit in the middle there, but seems a bit short for the longer looped version?

either way 3.5 is bigger than ruapuna so good enough for me!

Sarah311
25th July 2012, 20:57
Any new track gets me excited! 3.5k or thereabouts will be just fine! Those twisty bits look real tight and a couple of fabulous sweepers too. "which way does the track go?"!

scorry
26th July 2012, 08:10
I hope it goes clockwise, that way we will actually get the most use out of a set of tyres down here rather than just using the left half

SWERVE
26th July 2012, 17:02
if its clockwise.... hope that little cut through at T4 is well blanked off as we dont want someone over shooting that straight and then coming at track 90 degrees to other vehicles.
Will be a "big Kahunas" drag race around the first sweeper - straight - next sweeper also.....
Will be good to do some meetings on it before the 4 wheelers F**K it.

FJRider
26th July 2012, 17:16
They are talking about using the track for "Vehicle development" ... as an extension to that being done in Wanaka. (At the Snow-Farm I guess) So I guess requests for races/track time, will be based around track availability from those uses. Commercial interests first I would say.

With a bit of effort ... a figure eight could be done ... (who needs a fly-over :crazy: )

DerekP
26th July 2012, 20:16
I read some where that there was resorce consent for only 12 race meetings per year. Although in saying that, I was also talking to a guy from Wanaka who races pre62? cars; he said 16 races days per year.

Levels is limited to the number of meetings it can hold in a year also, isn't it? Anybody have any idea how many?

FJRider
26th July 2012, 20:32
I read some where that there was resorce consent for only 12 race meetings per year. Although in saying that, I was also talking to a guy from Wanaka who races pre62? cars; he said 16 races days per year.



A maximum of 12 meetings a year allowed at Cromwell ... here's the link.

http://www.drivesouth.co.nz/news/1039/20-million-cromwell-motorsport-park-all-go-graphic

tigertim20
26th July 2012, 20:50
A maximum of 12 meetings a year allowed at Cromwell ... here's the link.

http://www.drivesouth.co.nz/news/1039/20-million-cromwell-motorsport-park-all-go-graphic

12 isnt terrible I thought, lets see, 1 round of nationals, two motorcycle trackdays, probably three car trackdays, two rounds of some shitty car racing . . . not too bad!

FJRider
26th July 2012, 21:01
12 isnt terrible I thought, lets see, 1 round of nationals, two motorcycle trackdays, probably three car trackdays, two rounds of some shitty car racing . . . not too bad!

12 meetings a year .... I doubt if track-days will be considered "meetings" ... the expected noise levels/traffic levels ... on track-days will be well down from race meetings.

Maido
27th July 2012, 08:09
Considering the track idea is mostly driven (pardon the pun) by car money I would think bikes would hardly get a look in. Way more likely in central to cater for over 50's with money and mod life crisis Shelby cobras and lotus's than those bike folk. In saying that I hope all markets are catered for.

Kickaha
27th July 2012, 18:21
either way 3.5 is bigger than ruapuna so good enough for me!

Yeah by about 60 metres

It will be interesting to go to totally new track if we do get to run bikes on it, now lets hope the Nelson one comes off as well

DerekP
27th July 2012, 23:25
Considering the track idea is mostly driven (pardon the pun) by car money I would think bikes would hardly get a look in. Way more likely in central to cater for over 50's with money and mod life crisis Shelby cobras and lotus's than those bike folk. In saying that I hope all markets are catered for.



Exactly! I suspect we will get whats left after the V8 touring cars, some Summer Series with open wheeler things, pre grandad cars, truck racing, and the local car club events have had first dibs...or if we are lucky we may get to join them at a car/bike day...
And then you will need a club to want to run events there... I suspect most Central Otago clubs have a heavy off road bias...
Right thats enough negitivity for one day...

Maido
23rd August 2012, 07:54
Someone had posted this up on the faceflop this morning. Looks good, some great double apex action going on there!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbAn221u5ug

steveyb
23rd August 2012, 09:42
WOW! That looks fantastic!!
Multiple layouts it looks like and a tunnel/bridge!!
The backdrop is awesome too.
And a bloody good name to boot.

Maido
23rd August 2012, 09:44
Www.highlands.co.nz
4.8km!

Tony.OK
23rd August 2012, 10:00
Wow.........how long is that right hander at 30secs in?
With the tree back drop it looks like a great Euro track!

Can't wait to see it finished :yes:

RobGassit
23rd August 2012, 11:39
That looks epic! And a double jump too! Might have to move to Cromwell. I had no idea those Nivaras were so quick.

ellipsis
23rd August 2012, 13:56
...great teaser...hope some of us get the opportunity to be in the real movie...

SWERVE
23rd August 2012, 14:36
Nice ..... very nice..if its finished properly and hopefully nice and wide.... could be the best yet.

NordieBoy
23rd August 2012, 15:51
Nice ..... very nice..if its finished properly and hopefully nice and wide.... could be the best yet.

If it's finished properly?


It looks pretty nicely finished to me :Punk:

Maido
23rd August 2012, 16:30
If it's finished properly?

He forgot it is being built in the south island, so of course it will be built properly.

NordieBoy
23rd August 2012, 17:19
He forgot it is being built in the south island, so of course it will be built properly.

They'll probably stuff it up and put tarmac down or something silly...

unstuck
23rd August 2012, 17:39
That would make a mint rallycross track. Im all for going out and having a wee peek.:shifty:

BIG DOUG
23rd August 2012, 20:51
I realize that some of the trees have to go,but hell leave some of them as it looks freaking awesome racing through them.

steveyb
23rd August 2012, 21:04
One word: Hockenheim!

Subike
23rd August 2012, 21:23
One word: Hockenheim!



Have to agree with this, New Zealands own ultimate track.
Pity OHS will put a damper on it to prevent us getting a scratch on our balls anticipating driving/riding it.
But Im sure there will plenty of "test" days my international companies wanting to use it as a proving ground.

Ocean1
23rd August 2012, 21:53
It looks pretty nicely finished to me :Punk:

Amen.

Just have to get the 525 wheels on the Buell...

slowpoke
23rd August 2012, 22:11
I realize that some of the trees have to go,but hell leave some of them as it looks freaking awesome racing through them.

Yeah, lovely to look at but fukn lousy to hit. Great layout but I'm thinkin' that it ain't designed with bikes even remotely in mind.

Crasherfromwayback
23rd August 2012, 22:41
Someone had posted this up on the faceflop this morning. Looks good, some great double apex action going on there!
]

Awesome! Wish I wasn't too fat for my leathers. I would have loved for that to have been up and running when I was!! Anyone still involved will be lucky to have such a track to ride. Hat's off to all involved.

DerekP
23rd August 2012, 23:26
Wow very cool track!. Some knarly 90 degree corners and tight hair pin near the end for good measure. We now know its a clockwise track... May need to remove some of those trees otherwise there will be variable drying after a shower of rain... Some of the track was still damp and the rest was dusty.
The ute did about 2 minute lap time in "greasy conditions" - what will a superbike do?

NordieBoy
24th August 2012, 09:39
The ute did about 2 minute lap time in "greasy conditions" - what will a superbike do?

2:30-2:45

Nothing is faster than a southern ute.

kiwi cowboy
24th August 2012, 18:46
Unfortunatlyas im told its going to be a track for the test companies and rich buggers to play in.

The owner is building it for his son to run and hasnt involved mnz or motorsport nz on design or spec for racing and all the track is going to be controled with corner lighs from a main centre in the pits instead of marshels.

I could be and hope im wrong with this but where i heard this is pretty reliable.

Pumba
24th August 2012, 19:30
I could be and hope im wrong with this but where i heard this is pretty reliable.

You probably are given that lack of information that is out there about it, wont be a lot different to Rod Millen and his "Driveway" up north that is actually a sealed hill climb track.

And lets face it, motorsport in NZ doesn't make money, Hampton Downs was quite clear about that when they started there track. The whole business model was about cooperate days etc. to pay for the motorsport on the weekends.

Would be hell of a shame though never to see anyone race there.

Asher
24th August 2012, 19:35
I have unfortunately heard that rumor also.

hayd3n
24th August 2012, 20:11
http://www.drivesouth.co.nz/news/1039/20-million-cromwell-motorsport-park-all-go-graphic
The trust proposed to develop a comprehensive vehicle testing facility, motorsport racing venue, specialist driver training facilities, and an associated commercial and retail complex on the land, situated next to Cromwell's existing speedway and kart track.

kiwi cowboy
24th August 2012, 22:45
You probably are given that lack of information that is out there about it, wont be a lot different to Rod Millen and his "Driveway" up north that is actually a sealed hill climb track.

And lets face it, motorsport in NZ doesn't make money, Hampton Downs was quite clear about that when they started there track. The whole business model was about cooperate days etc. to pay for the motorsport on the weekends.

Would be hell of a shame though never to see anyone race there.

I agree there is a lack of info out there and i dont know anything about the : driveway:.

When hampton was designed i bet the owners developers included the race sancioning bodies --mnz and or motorsport nz for there input on what was required to be up to race standard befor building which i understand the cromwell guy hasnt.

Unfortunatly the person i heard it from is well in the know on this thing.

kiwi cowboy
24th August 2012, 22:48
http://www.drivesouth.co.nz/news/1039/20-million-cromwell-motorsport-park-all-go-graphic
The trust proposed to develop a comprehensive vehicle testing facility, motorsport racing venue, specialist driver training facilities, and an associated commercial and retail complex on the land, situated next to Cromwell's existing speedway and kart track.

Yes but unfortunatly the trust no longer exsists as the new owner bought them out.

hayd3n
25th August 2012, 00:19
Yes but unfortunatly the trust no longer exsists as the new owner bought them out.

hymm then why would they bother making a website / youtube account advertising the track??
just to skite???

kiwi cowboy
25th August 2012, 00:39
hymm then why would they bother making a website / youtube account advertising the track??
just to skite???

Dont know the ins and outs of it but the way i understand it the original trust was the people that got the consents and then ended up selling to the ausie guy but i stand to be corrected on that.

ellipsis
25th August 2012, 02:25
...go back to post #9...

Grumph
25th August 2012, 06:39
If the track's there and operational, the local business community are the best pressure group to see that it becomes a genuine race facility.
A few years ago, Levels looked doomed but pressure from the Timaru business owners groups had a big part in keeping it open - they woke up to just how much revenue they were going to lose....
Once this one is going and the local council and businesses see the potential, the owners will come under pressure to get the crowds in.

Pumba
25th August 2012, 06:48
I agree there is a lack of info out there and i dont know anything about the : driveway:.

Invite only event that he running http://leadfoot-festival.myshopify.com/

kiwi cowboy
25th August 2012, 07:48
If the track's there and operational, the local business community are the best pressure group to see that it becomes a genuine race facility.
A few years ago, Levels looked doomed but pressure from the Timaru business owners groups had a big part in keeping it open - they woke up to just how much revenue they were going to lose....
Once this one is going and the local council and businesses see the potential, the owners will come under pressure to get the crowds in.

You could be and hope you are right.

There would be good crowd possibilities for well organisied meets at certain times of the year if the speedway is anything to go by.

Christmas/new year and easter are a couple of times when ive been at speedway and its been packed.

Time will tell i suppose so i have my fingers crossed cos im only an hour away from it .

Dave-
25th August 2012, 10:35
You could be and hope you are right.

There would be good crowd possibilities for well organisied meets at certain times of the year if the speedway is anything to go by.

Christmas/new year and easter are a couple of times when ive been at speedway and its been packed.

Time will tell i suppose so i have my fingers crossed cos im only an hour away from it .

The people of cromwell are well behind it, they think it's going to bring in a new era for cromwell as a motorsport town that quadruples in size when a major event is in town.

The local climate lends itself to racing almost year round - it's a very "stable" climate

RobGassit
26th August 2012, 14:05
WSBK Round there might be nice.

nadroj
27th August 2012, 07:22
http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/features/7546612/Taranaki-man-on-the-right-track

Kevin O'Neil is a biker with a cruiser and a RE Rotary in his stable.

tigertim20
27th August 2012, 19:13
and the keywords from that link are ...
This will be a private motorsport facility that any organisation will be able to book and use. But it is a fact that it will be capable of hosting top-end motorsport events."

thats great news!

Dave-
28th August 2012, 09:48
and the keywords from that link are ...
This will be a private motorsport facility that any organisation will be able to book and use. But it is a fact that it will be capable of hosting top-end motorsport events."

thats great news!

Yeah I was going to comment on that one line, ran out of time.

But to me that reads "Come see what we've got"

k14
28th August 2012, 10:13
The people of cromwell are well behind it, they think it's going to bring in a new era for cromwell as a motorsport town that quadruples in size when a major event is in town.

The local climate lends itself to racing almost year round - it's a very "stable" climate
Oh really? Who told you that. It is certainly not that clear cut. As always with things of this nature they are very polarising. I'd be surprised if more than half of the population is for the park. Although in saying that quite a lot of the residents are neutral to the idea. It is a few km out of the town so shouldn't cause too many problems. Quite a few of the opponents are worried at the possible "bogan" crowd (or Gorons) that may be attracted to events such as the V8's etc. But nevertheless it is being built and is past the point of no return now. I guess how often big name events are held there will all depend on what crowd it attracts (if it attracts any at all).

codgyoleracer
28th August 2012, 18:10
Oh really? Who told you that. It is certainly not that clear cut. As always with things of this nature they are very polarising. I'd be surprised if more than half of the population is for the park. Although in saying that quite a lot of the residents are neutral to the idea. It is a few km out of the town so shouldn't cause too many problems. Quite a few of the opponents are worried at the possible "bogan" crowd (or Gorons) that may be attracted to events such as the V8's etc. But nevertheless it is being built and is past the point of no return now. I guess how often big name events are held there will all depend on what crowd it attracts (if it attracts any at all).

HaHa, & on a positive note.....

Fucken good on-em ! , Oresome.

Dave-
28th August 2012, 18:18
Oh really? Who told you that. It is certainly not that clear cut. As always with things of this nature they are very polarising. I'd be surprised if more than half of the population is for the park. Although in saying that quite a lot of the residents are neutral to the idea. It is a few km out of the town so shouldn't cause too many problems. Quite a few of the opponents are worried at the possible "bogan" crowd (or Gorons) that may be attracted to events such as the V8's etc. But nevertheless it is being built and is past the point of no return now. I guess how often big name events are held there will all depend on what crowd it attracts (if it attracts any at all).

Just the locals I spoke to about it when I was down there last, all of them, including the elderly were pretty keen for it really, really excited about it.

k14
28th August 2012, 20:17
Just the locals I spoke to about it when I was down there last, all of them, including the elderly were pretty keen for it really, really excited about it.
You must have got lucky. I was living in Cromwell when the consent hearing was on and as I said there were people both for and against. To be honest now that I don't race I am in the "don't really care" category. But I can see the argument for both sides. This part of the country is a pretty relaxed and quiet place. Lots of people retire from all around NZ just for that so to have this change could upset them a little. But in saying that, it's use will be 95% for private days and when it is used like this it is pretty much the same as a road with no speed limits, testing road cars etc. The other 5% of the time there might be some small motorsport events but you need to remember that Central Otago is in the butt end of nowhere. It is a real prick to get to, arguably less accessible than Invercargill (weather is slightly better though :bash:) and the town only has a population of around 4000 so doesn't have the facilities to cope with a big influx of visitors. This will probably be the biggest factor in determining what sort of events are staged there.

FJRider
28th August 2012, 20:50
You must have got lucky. I was living in Cromwell when the consent hearing was on and as I said there were people both for and against. To be honest now that I don't race I am in the "don't really care" category. But I can see the argument for both sides. This part of the country is a pretty relaxed and quiet place. Lots of people retire from all around NZ just for that so to have this change could upset them a little. But in saying that, it's use will be 95% for private days and when it is used like this it is pretty much the same as a road with no speed limits, testing road cars etc. The other 5% of the time there might be some small motorsport events but you need to remember that Central Otago is in the butt end of nowhere. It is a real prick to get to, arguably less accessible than Invercargill (weather is slightly better though :bash:) and the town only has a population of around 4000 so doesn't have the facilities to cope with a big influx of visitors. This will probably be the biggest factor in determining what sort of events are staged there.

As most of the private testing of vehicles (as at the snow farm) dont/wont want to be noticed for various reasons ... I very much doubt if they'll be heard ... or seen much ... for that matter. Dirt embankments are already going up to reduce noise and observation.
That "butt end of nowhere is 45 minutes from Queenstown International airport. Plenty of accomodation there or Wanaka. (Or Alex)

Dave-
29th August 2012, 12:53
As most of the private testing of vehicles (as at the snow farm) dont/wont want to be noticed for various reasons ... I very much doubt if they'll be heard ... or seen much ... for that matter. Dirt embankments are already going up to reduce noise and observation.
That "butt end of nowhere is 45 minutes from Queenstown International airport. Plenty of accomodation there or Wanaka. (Or Alex)

That's what I was going to say, central is a long way from the butt end of no where.

Invercargill you can only approach from the north (are there any racers on Stewart island? haha) so that immediately halves the accessibility.

Yeah maybe I got lucky, quite a few small towns around the world fill up for massive sporting events once per year, I can imagine in the beginning the townsfolk are probably apprehensive but I think once they see the actual dollar figure at the end of the month they'll be pretty happy.

As always, money talks.

DidJit
31st August 2012, 17:40
I was lucky enough to catch a decent glimpse as the plane I was on flew over it the other day — that track really does look good!

Cleve
2nd September 2012, 13:46
You must have got lucky. I was living in Cromwell when the consent hearing was on and as I said there were people both for and against. To be honest now that I don't race I am in the "don't really care" category. But I can see the argument for both sides. This part of the country is a pretty relaxed and quiet place. Lots of people retire from all around NZ just for that so to have this change could upset them a little. But in saying that, it's use will be 95% for private days and when it is used like this it is pretty much the same as a road with no speed limits, testing road cars etc. The other 5% of the time there might be some small motorsport events but you need to remember that Central Otago is in the butt end of nowhere. It is a real prick to get to, arguably less accessible than Invercargill (weather is slightly better though :bash:) and the town only has a population of around 4000 so doesn't have the facilities to cope with a big influx of visitors. This will probably be the biggest factor in determining what sort of events are staged there.

Miller Motor Sports is the butt end of nowhere and it gets WSBK...

FJRider
11th September 2012, 12:59
Here's a pic printed in a local free paper ... of the new track layout. Eight different track configurations ...

Grumph
11th September 2012, 19:47
Here's a pic printed in a local free paper ... of the new track layout. Eight different track configurations ...

There'd be more if Motorsport NZ didn't have this thing about not approving any part of a circuit for reverse direction running...

And I reckon a GPS as a standard fitting will be the go.

tigertim20
11th September 2012, 20:05
looks pretty good!

Dave-
12th September 2012, 09:49
Woohoo!

that looks excellent!

DerekP
15th September 2012, 19:50
An email from Highlands Motorsport Park. Note halfway down the first big race meeting is Aussie GT series in November 2013....Looks very cool







Highlands Motorsport Park development
well under way!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Hi Derek

First of all, thanks for registering on our website and viewing the video clip (viewed by over 21,000 people!) The feedback so far has been amazing with so many positive comments (about 500!) and over 1,000 people registering on the website. Many of you had questions, so we'll answer a few of them here!

What is the timeframe for completion?
The Nose (restaurant) will open at the end of 2012.
The tracks (circuit and kart track) will be sealed in November 2012. This will take 3 weeks. It will then need to set for 4 weeks so the track will be finished in January 2013. VERY exciting!
The National Motorsport Museum will be finished before Christmas this year. A team of people is working on the exhibits.

Can we see a plan of the track layout?
Yes, the plan will be posted on the new website which will be launched next week. Actually, I'll put it on the Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/HighlandsMotorsportPark. The new website (launched next week) will have a detailed description of the track!)

When will the first races be held?
The first race meeting will be in November 2013: The Australian GT Series (http://www.australiangt.com.au/) and more will follow after that.
Before that time, the track will be used for as a vehicle testing facility (by the Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground), member track days, hot laps etc.

How can I become a member?
The membership model is still being finalised. We'll keep you posted!

Does Highlands Motorsport Park have a Facebook page?
Yes, and we'd love for you to become a fan! Click on the Facebook link!
We'll be posting lots of info on our Facebook page over the next few months!



Have a great weekend! from The Highlands team.





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Copyright © Highlands Motorsport Park, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
PO Box 431
Cromwell, Otago 9342
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Dave-
16th September 2012, 12:52
It has a lake!

270165

FJRider
16th September 2012, 13:04
And the track is Clockwise until under the bridge ... then anti-clockwise. Talk about a long sweeper at the end of the main straight ...

And ... airtime off the bridge ... ???

Dave-
16th September 2012, 13:57
And the track is Clockwise until under the bridge ... then anti-clockwise. Talk about a long sweeper at the end of the main straight ...

And ... airtime off the bridge ... ???

I dont get what they're talking about there, does that mean it runs in a figure 8?

FJRider
16th September 2012, 14:00
I dont get what they're talking about there, does that mean it runs in a figure 8?

Nothing much gets past you ... eh ... !!!

Oh ... that's a yes ...

Dave-
16th September 2012, 14:20
Nothing much gets past you ... eh ... !!!

Oh ... that's a yes ...

OH I SEE IT NOW!

for some reason looking at it ^that way up made my brain had a race track that led to a head on collision firey death finish line.

probably not what the planners had in mind.

Dave-
23rd September 2012, 21:52
http://gallery.mailchimp.com/534cc8edc215740d9ded1c32b/images/view_from_museum.JPG
"View of the track from the museum at the top of the spectator embankment."

If it's primarily a test track....why does it have a spectator embankment? -_-

the plot thickens!

Pumba
23rd September 2012, 22:26
If it's primarily a test track....why does it have a spectator embankment? -_-

the plot thickens!

For taking all those perfectly in focus "leaked" photos of new vehciles that do not yet exist andd companies deny all knowledge of. I mean DAAAAH:cool:

Dave-
24th September 2012, 09:57
For taking all those perfectly in focus "leaked" photos of new vehciles that do not yet exist andd companies deny all knowledge of. I mean DAAAAH:cool:

I suspect the real reason is because there will actually be some racing there, I'm not expecting a covered grandstand with car parking for 20,000 people....

Also in the same email

http://gallery.mailchimp.com/534cc8edc215740d9ded1c32b/images/moulds_for_concrete_track_side_barriers.JPG
The moulds for the concrete track barriers have just arrived.

I hope that's just the bracing and there's something a bit more absorbent....

http://gallery.mailchimp.com/534cc8edc215740d9ded1c32b/images/tires_for_barriers.JPG
Tyres for safety barriers...

nnnmmmmmmm.... :(

I'll take tyres over concrete....buuuuut

Kickaha
24th September 2012, 17:30
I'll take tyres over concrete....buuuuut
By the time the tyres are filled with dirt they're just about as solid anyway

FJRider
24th September 2012, 18:17
If it's primarily a test track....why does it have a spectator embankment? -_-

the plot thickens!

Maybe because the oval part of the track at the other end of the circuit will be primarily be the test part.

sil3nt
24th September 2012, 18:31
Let's hope it doesn't turn out like HD and only have a half finished circuit.

Dave-
24th September 2012, 22:01
By the time the tyres are filled with dirt they're just about as solid anyway

they're called safety barriers.....but who's safety are they protecting?

Grumph
25th September 2012, 06:28
they're called safety barriers.....but who's safety are they protecting?

Spectators of course...kill a spectator and you may lose the track....kill a competitor and oh dear, how sad, carry on....

DEATH_INC.
25th September 2012, 18:38
Let's hope it doesn't turn out like HD and only have a half finished circuit.
Looks farkin cool. Typical, they can build an awesome track in the middle of 'nowhere' yet in the largest city in the country we have a half finished abortion.
Go the South!

FJRider
25th September 2012, 18:56
Looks farkin cool. Typical, they can build an awesome track in the middle of 'nowhere' yet in the largest city in the country we have a half finished abortion.
Go the South!

Where IN this (which) city is this track .... ???

The Cromwell track will have it's own cafe ... and two pubs, and a few bars/cafe's within 3 km's from trackside ... Can the same be said at HD ... ??? (not to mention 35 minutes from an international airport) And 30 minutes from my place :lol:

And the center of NZ's best known tourist mecca ... 45 minutes away. Middle of nowhere indeed ... :killingme

tigertim20
25th September 2012, 19:21
Looks farkin cool. Typical, they can build an awesome track in the middle of 'nowhere' yet in the largest city in the country we have a half finished abortion.
Go the South!

this one aint finished yet either mate! big plans could still run out of money for all the details!

FJRider
25th September 2012, 19:30
this one aint finished yet either mate! big plans could still run out of money for all the details!

I see the progress on the track every day. It is not being done "on a budget" ... it's a very busy place, tree planting is in full progress. The track is being rolled prior to sealing in november ....

tigertim20
25th September 2012, 20:09
It is not being done "on a budget" ... .
thats exactly the kind of attitude that often contributes to a running out of finance to bring every detail to reality!

But I sincerely hope that doesnt happen!

FJRider
25th September 2012, 20:15
thats exactly the kind of attitude that often contributes to a running out of finance to bring every detail to reality!

But I sincerely hope that doesnt happen!

With the Vehicle testing probably a major source of track income in the future ... the sooner it gets finished, the better. I would say a few race days will be planned for early in the piece ... if only for advertising purposes ...

It seems like Aussie money involved ... so expect a "Hiss and a roar with lots of noise" type start ...

NordieBoy
25th September 2012, 20:23
... so expect a "Hiss and a roar with lots of noise" type start ...

What, V8 utes?

:headbang:

FJRider
25th September 2012, 20:34
What, V8 utes?

:headbang:

Watch this space ... but I bet it gets on all the TV news ... :lol:

A few Aussie V8 Supercars would not surprise me.

DerekP
25th September 2012, 20:55
According to their email news reliese the first 'proper' race meeting is Aussie GT Series in November 2013

Dave-
25th September 2012, 21:58
Watch this space ... but I bet it gets on all the TV news ... :lol:

A few Aussie V8 Supercars would not surprise me.

I'm trying to get shaun summerfield to do a follow up...

FJRider
25th September 2012, 22:03
I'm trying to get shaun summerfield to do a follow up...

Hamilton is over ... forget Puke' .... Cromwell for the V8's .... :innocent:

DerekP
26th September 2012, 20:22
From their "Marketing Dept"... Sounds freaken cool!!



Let "The Stag" take you on a lap of the long circuit (use the map on the right to see where we are... )

We are joining the track from the Gasoline alley pit exit..... accelerating through a medium right up into third gear, we continue to accelerate around past the future race pits, up into 4th gear, then fifth off down the 700m main straight. We top out at 230 kph before braking and changing down to third for the bus stop, accelerating back up to 4th as we travel around the forest loop.... we are in this long sweeping right hander for over 10 seconds.... emerging from the forest at 180kph and continuing to accelerate down Pisa straight, up to 5th gear, before hard braking into the esses.

Third gear takes us through the esses and on under the bridge into 4th. Another hard brake application before a late turn in to the 18 degree carousel, taking care to be in the right track position to manage the tricky off camber exit.

Accelerating through the right hander past the spectator berm, into another right hander and off towards the forest. We are taking the longer track today so braking is required for the right hander before the forest elbow in second gear. back up to third on the short straight before the right then left through the slowest corner on the circuit, forest hairpin in second, and off down the long straight towards the bridge.

Hard braking is required to negotiate the tight left/right combination before accelerating up to 4th again over the bridge. A long left hand third gear corner follows, short shifting to fourth before arriving at the surprise step down (front tyre lock up possible here) into the tight right hander past the spectator embankment.

We should have exited track A to return to the Member garages at this point, but the circuit is just so much fun, we're off to do another lap!

Enjoy the ride... we look forward with great anticipation to bringing you a video lap when the tarmac is completed in January 2013.

"The Stag"

madandy
26th September 2012, 21:57
Where IN this (which) city is this track .... ???

The Cromwell track will have it's own cafe ... and two pubs, and a few bars/cafe's within 3 km's from trackside ... Can the same be said at HD ... ??? (not to mention 35 minutes from an international airport) And 30 minutes from my place :lol:

And the center of NZ's best known tourist mecca ... 45 minutes away. Middle of nowhere indeed ... :killingme


Replace 'IN' with 'near' - Auckland, smarty pants.

Relative to Hampton Downs' proximity to 1,500,000 Kiwis, Cromwell could be fairly considered to be near he centre of nowhere. Erehwon aint that far away ;)

HD has a cafe and bar. I fail to see the benefit of two pubs at a race track! People drive to an event and are offered alcohol?! WTF?!
Good Southern 'ospitality wot.

Hamilton and Auckland International airports are about 30 mins from HD too. Woopee!

There are similar facilities near HD, yes, and having been to several events there, and having stayed there, I know of several eateries and accommodations within a short distance also.

NZ's most visited and surely 'best known' tourist spot is Rotorua, according to Tourism NZ...

This will be a terrific venue, sadly enjoyed by few North of Picton just as few South of Wellington visit HD, Manfield, Pukekohe and Taupo.

hayd3n
26th September 2012, 23:56
Looks farkin cool. Typical, they can build an awesome track in the middle of 'nowhere' yet in the largest city in the country we have a half finished abortion.
Go the South!

when ya coming down?

Grumph
27th September 2012, 07:01
Replace 'IN' with 'near' - Auckland, smarty pants.

Relative to Hampton Downs' proximity to 1,500,000 Kiwis, Cromwell could be fairly considered to be near he centre of nowhere. Erehwon aint that far away ;)


Being really pedantic, Erewhon is just up the road from me...IE about 3/4 of an hour from ChCH.

The track is actually much closer to Paradise....

madandy
27th September 2012, 07:19
Yea, I know.
I'm from Mid Canterbury :cold:
My idea of paradise included warmth, ocean beaches and no ice on the roads :yeah:

Highlands is in a great location, dont get me wrong but riding the East Coast, Far North, BoP, Hawkes Bay and Waikato country roads has been a true delight...paradise for others, even :niceone:

ellipsis
27th September 2012, 08:39
...some of us don't weaken for that kind of stuff...

Dave-
27th September 2012, 11:21
Hamilton is over ... forget Puke' .... Cromwell for the V8's .... :innocent:

http://us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=534cc8edc215740d9ded1c32b&id=d2ace04f43

wanna go for a walk for us fella?

FJRider
27th September 2012, 17:07
http://us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=534cc8edc215740d9ded1c32b&id=d2ace04f43

wanna go for a walk for us fella?

I think I shall ... :yes:

FJRider
27th September 2012, 17:21
Being really pedantic, Erewhon is just up the road from me...IE about 3/4 of an hour from ChCH.

The track is actually much closer to Paradise....

Being pedantic ... Paradise is about 10 km's north of Glenorchy ... about an hour and a quarter's (Spectacular) ride away from the track. Don't believe it's spectacular ... ???

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/album.php?albumid=2863

There are still a few people that believe all the roads around here are all iced over in winter. In many respects ... I hope they continue to believe that.

Dave-
26th November 2012, 21:32
...and I went and got my hopes up.

http://gallery.mailchimp.com/534cc8edc215740d9ded1c32b/images/IMG_0447.jpg

NordieBoy
27th November 2012, 06:12
...and I went and got my hopes up.

better than a wire rope barrier...

Crasherfromwayback
27th November 2012, 07:29
better than a wire rope barrier...

Too true. Doesn't mean they'll let bikes near it though.

scrivy
27th November 2012, 08:07
...and I went and got my hopes up.


With all the ice they get down that way, it'll make a great luge track....... :lol:

Dave-
27th November 2012, 17:27
better than a wire rope barrier...

Ah, I don't think they'd put wire rope barriers on a race track...

Actually if they did they could spend the difference on a nice big run off and some air barriers to go in front, maybe? i dunno what the costs are like.

actually, I wonder if they intend on putting air barriers around there? I'd race with air barriers around there.

NordieBoy
27th November 2012, 19:49
Ah, I don't think they'd put wire rope barriers on a race track...

They shouldn't on the road either, but they do.

Dave-
27th November 2012, 20:30
They shouldn't on the road either, but they do.

Yeah we know, and we don't care, because they don't put them on race tracks.

They also don't put power poles, gutters, trees, hedges, foreigners in campers, lorries, and a lane going in the opposite direction on race tracks too.

Which is great because for many this is the reason we don't ride on the road, and instead go to the race track where "at least the idiots are going in the same direction"

Personally I think if you have a problem with wire rope barriers you should try really hard not to ride into one just like how you try really hard not to ride into oncoming traffic or brick walls, and if you have a REALLY REALLY big problem with wire rope barriers, you should just not ride on the road, it is honestly that simple.

I've never crashed into a wire rope barrier, and since I've gone racing my fears of crashing into one have severely subsided, I'm now more afraid of a 1 eye'd 1 horned flying purple people eater getting me on a race track than a wire rope barrier, I think I'm more likely to be hit my a meteor than a wire rope barrier on a race track.

Ok so take this situation I posted above, I have a problem with the walls being so close at this race track, so guess what? I just won't race a bike there, simple as that! If they put in air barriers I would, but that's their choice, obviously I hope they do cause it looks really cool! but I'm not going to risk my life over it.

Also, I'm glad that they use wire rope barriers on the road because if they didn't then they'd have to use concrete on a smaller portion of the road, and while that smaller portion would be marginally safer for a minority of the road users (I think there's been 2 motorcycle wire rope barrier related accidents in the last 5 or 8 years? - in one case 1 man might still have his arm, and the other guy was a loonie doing a wheelie who would have been killed by a concrete barrier anyway - or natural selection) I think a wire rope barriers abilities to slow down a vehicle coming in the other direction for a greater portion of road users (some who have no choice to use the road) far out weighs the marginal benefits of a minority involved in an inherently dangerous recreation they can choose not to do.

Fuck, and I wanted to keep my smart ass reply to your stupid post short and sweet.

hayd3n
27th November 2012, 20:43
RANT

Fuck, and I wanted to keep my smart ass reply to your stupid post short and sweet.
the concrete barrier is on a safe part of the track its not like you'll ever hit it head on,
and the track can be divided up in to different sections , they wont use the bridge section for bikes

FJRider
27th November 2012, 20:48
With all the ice they get down that way, it'll make a great luge track....... :lol:

Your idea of the amount of ice in winter around here ... is a little imaginative. And a luge requires at least a little downhill. The track is flat.

FJRider
27th November 2012, 21:01
the concrete barrier is on a safe part of the track its not like you'll ever hit it head on,
and the track can be divided up in to different sections , they wont use the bridge section for bikes

The outside of the loop ... safe .. ??? :lol:

No (official) word yet as to bikes actually getting on any part of the track.

madandy
27th November 2012, 21:06
With concrete walls lie inthe picture a few posts above Zi wonder what class of vehicle will race at this track...I wouldnt go near that in a single seater.

Dave-
27th November 2012, 21:32
the concrete barrier is on a safe part of the track its not like you'll ever hit it head on.

Ah, no it isn't.


With concrete walls lie inthe picture a few posts above Zi wonder what class of vehicle will race at this track...I wouldnt go near that in a single seater.

They have the aussie porsche's coming over end of next year.

They're also putting in tyre walls.

I can see some hideous accidents happening on that corner.....

ellipsis
27th November 2012, 22:52
Fuck, and I wanted to keep my smart ass reply to your stupid post short and sweet.

...i'm not sure that you would know you were being fucked 'til you coughed...tosser...

hayd3n
27th November 2012, 23:16
The outside of the loop ... safe .. ??? :lol:

No (official) word yet as to bikes actually getting on any part of the track.

looking at the track they will most likely use the grid section for bikes and not the forest parts

Crasherfromwayback
28th November 2012, 22:14
They shouldn't on the road either, but they do.

Duh. The difference being...

Cleve
29th November 2012, 18:28
an air fence there??!! Then you could possibly bounce back into the other bikes screaming round...

FJRider
30th December 2012, 11:21
I can see some hideous accidents happening on that corner.....

Why ... Tracks like Bathurst have more serious corners ... with concrete barriers ...

hayd3n
30th December 2012, 12:35
there is a corner called the bus stop before the concrete wall it should slow ppl down sufficiently
http://www.scene.co.nz/images/image/SEPTEMBER%202012/060912/TOURISM-Cromwell-Racetrack.jpg
+ there is 3 seperate tracks avaliable

RDjase
30th December 2012, 12:53
In the local paper in HB a while back after the Targa finished it had a picture of the Quinns Garage Nissan and said it is being retired as a race car and going to a motorsport muesum in Cromwell.

Might be a whole lot of rich petrol heads have got together for there own "private" track

FJRider
30th December 2012, 12:56
The photo of the concrete barrier was near the exit of the main loop ... just before it straightens and leaves the forest. At the stage where the rider/driver will be powering out of the corner.

And it wont be the only part of the track(s) to feature concrete barriers. Take a close look at the bridge for a start.

hayd3n
30th December 2012, 16:32
The photo of the concrete barrier was near the exit of the main loop ... just before it straightens and leaves the forest. At the stage where the rider/driver will be powering out of the corner.

And it wont be the only part of the track(s) to feature concrete barriers. Take a close look at the bridge for a start.

have ya done the walk?????/
the tracks 12 metres wide!!!
. i cant see them having bikes racing over the bridge section anyway , they would most likely have them race on the 1st or 3rd track

the 3rd track has a nice carousel and off camber corner ,

the bridge kinda links them all together to become one big special track!!,
the 2nd track with the skid pan incorporated (and constantly wetted) has been made mostly for testing purpose, not actually speeding nor racing , more so testing abs traction control etc etc,
however with the added bus stop, it can be used for racing purposes as it will slow them down to a safe enough speed to take the corner,

FJRider
30th December 2012, 16:46
have ya done the walk?????/
the tracks 12 metres wide!!!
. i cant see them having bikes racing over the bridge section anyway , they would most likely have them race on the 1st or 3rd track

the 3rd track has a nice carousel and off camber corner ,

the bridge kinda links them all together to become one big special track!!,
the 2nd track with the skid pan incorporated (and constantly wetted) has been made mostly for testing purpose, not actually speeding nor racing , more so testing abs traction control etc etc,
however with the added bus stop, it can be used for racing purposes as it will slow them down to a safe enough speed to take the corner,

I've been there a few times ... I live in the area remember. Not necessarily on official business. Or official visit.

Some tracks I've seen are 9 metres wide.

Not ALL barriers are in place yet. Nor has there been any "official" mention of any motorcycle racing being intended there. BUT ... if they build it ... they will come .... and race. (If they are allowed to)

Dave-
30th December 2012, 21:00
Why ... Tracks like Bathurst have more serious corners ... with concrete barriers ...

Bathurst isn't a track it's a town, mount panorama on the other hand was first raced back in the 1930's, Highlands is a 21st century race track where we have considerations for health and safety, and further to the point, open wheelers and motorcycles haven't been properly run there for a long time, and wont again.


there is a corner called the bus stop before the concrete wall it should slow ppl down sufficiently


Oh so there should be no need for a wall if everyone slows down sufficiently then?


The photo of the concrete barrier was near the exit of the main loop ... just before it straightens and leaves the forest. At the stage where the rider/driver will be powering out of the corner.

And it wont be the only part of the track(s) to feature concrete barriers. Take a close look at the bridge for a start.

When they're running wide, when the tyre is at maximum slip, when they're most likely to have a high side.

I've heard bikes aren't welcome, so to be honest I've lost interest.

FJRider
30th December 2012, 21:22
I've heard bikes aren't welcome, so to be honest I've lost interest.

I've "heard" the same. That is why I have stated (a few times) that no "official" word has been made that bikes will be allowed to run there.

Dave-
30th December 2012, 21:47
I've "heard" the same. That is why I have stated (a few times) that no "official" word has been made that bikes will be allowed to run there.

Which at this point is a concern really.

kiwi cowboy
30th December 2012, 22:04
Which at this point is a concern really.

The membership offer that came out not long ago suggest's the average joe aint gona be able to afford to race there even if they have a day for them unfortunatly.

FJRider
30th December 2012, 22:05
Which at this point is a concern really.

Why is a concern ??? ... and a concern ... to whom ???

Motorcycle racing in NZ is not high on the list of sure-fire financial returns. So why should they bother on a private track. More money in big name series motor racing, and from the motor industry.

There is a limit on the number of races permitted there each year. But NO minimum number stated .... or guarantee the maximum number will be achieved.

FJRider
30th December 2012, 22:07
The membership offer that came out not long ago suggest's the average joe aint gona be able to afford to race there even if they have a day for them unfortunatly.

I heard $30,000 for membership.

And most likely an annual fee ...

FJRider
30th December 2012, 22:12
Might be a whole lot of rich petrol heads have got together for there own "private" track

Just ONE rich petrol head behind it ... and inviting other wealthy petrol heads to join him.

Members get their own on track garage.

Dave-
30th December 2012, 22:22
Why is a concern ??? ... and a concern ... to whom ???

Motorcycle racing in NZ is not high on the list of sure-fire financial returns. So why should they bother on a private track. More money in big name series motor racing, and from the motor industry.

There is a limit on the number of races permitted there each year. But NO minimum number stated .... or guarantee the maximum number will be achieved.

A concern to me cause I want to race there.


I heard $30,000 for membership.


Just ONE rich petrol head behind it ... and inviting other wealthy petrol heads to join him.

Members get their own on track garage.

http://www.highlands.co.nz/Membership/Default.asp

$25k starting, $4.5k a year, garages just over $3k a year.

Guess I'd better get around to making my millions.

FJRider
30th December 2012, 22:27
A concern to me cause I want to race there.


You probably still can.

But not (at this stage just unlikely) on a motorcycle ...

Pumba
10th February 2013, 18:29
Appears most of the seal is down.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=3Dbyos2BkRo

The music in video is terrible, personally I would prefer to hear the car

steveyb
10th February 2013, 18:36
Yep, nice.
I think it is obvious that it will not get used for full on motorcycle racing, or much full on racing for that matter.
Those tall green pointy things and the flat grey slabby things right next to the track, and the tunnelly thing that is no wider than the track all indicate No bikes here.

Pumba
10th February 2013, 18:55
Yea I agree. It is a shame, but it is even more obvious (if it wasn't before) now that it has been designed and built for cooperate days, vehicle testing, and tin tops (in particular GT3 Racing).

If anyone with a Motorcycling background built a track they would have every right to build it the way they wanted. Now where is that email from the guy in Zimbabwe he says he is holding $20mill of my recently deceased long lost uncle, who was a chief aid to the royal family. As soon as I send him those bank details someone just needs to point me in the direction of a suitable block of land.

Dave-
10th February 2013, 20:31
Bugger the trees, SCARY WALLS!

Ocean1
10th February 2013, 21:00
Reckon that was a HP car on the left there at 1:30.

FJRider
10th February 2013, 21:13
Reckon that was a HP car on the left there at 1:30.

It was indeed ...

k14
11th February 2013, 08:28
From what I have been told its $25k a year membership which includes a garage to keep your car in. So fly in to Qtown, helicopter to Cromwell, 50 hot laps in your Aston Martin and then back home for work on Monday :scooter:

unstuck
11th February 2013, 08:48
From what I have been told its $25k a year membership which includes a garage to keep your car in. So fly in to Qtown, helicopter to Cromwell, 50 hot laps in your Aston Martin and then back home for work on Monday :scooter:

Sounds good, where do you sign up.:woohoo:

SWERVE
11th February 2013, 08:51
Reckon that was a HP car on the left there at 1:30.

Nice to see the tax payers money being well spent...again
Obviously no criminal activity in Queenstown/Cromwell region......... other than the prices charged for EVERYTHING

They spend a lot of time parked on the side of roads down there targeting the motorists...so i guess its just a variation on a theme.

scrivy
11th February 2013, 08:54
Reckon that was a HP car on the left there at 1:30.

You sure it was, and not a track pace car? It looks like its got extra writing down the side of it.

unstuck
11th February 2013, 08:57
You sure it was, and not a track pace car? It looks like its got extra writing down the side of it.

Tis a copper.:yes::yes:

scrivy
11th February 2013, 10:44
Tis a copper.:yes::yes:

Ohhh......

Dave-
11th February 2013, 11:33
From what I have been told its $25k a year membership which includes a garage to keep your car in. So fly in to Qtown, helicopter to Cromwell, 50 hot laps in your Aston Martin and then back home for work on Monday :scooter:


Sounds good, where do you sign up.:woohoo:



http://www.highlands.co.nz/Membership/Default.asp

$25k starting, $4.5k a year, garages just over $3k a year.

I'm not sure where people keep "hearing" things cause it's printed in black and white....

Asher
26th March 2013, 19:40
http://www.3news.co.nz/Tony-Quinns-petrolhead-heaven/tabid/367/articleID/291881/Default.aspx

hayd3n
26th March 2013, 19:48
Yep, nice.
I think it is obvious that it will not get used for full on motorcycle racing, or much full on racing for that matter.
Those tall green pointy things and the flat grey slabby things right next to the track, and the tunnelly thing that is no wider than the track all indicate No bikes here.

the track is 12m wide

MD
26th March 2013, 20:31
Holy cow! Is that full track about 23 corners. Awesome. Where's my Aston Martin when I need one.