Free to watch

Spectator guide

Grab your crew, a picnic rug, and cheer from the hill. Everything you need for a full day out is right here.

Key times

  • 7:30 AM — Pit areas open for viewing (restricted access behind barriers).
  • 9:00 AM — Heats begin – best views from Drews Ave terraces and Ridgway Street corner.
  • 12:00 PM — Lunch break with JJ Roofing Running of the Balls and live music.
  • 1:00 PM — Heats resume with Mini Stocks and Open Division showdowns.
  • 1:45 PM — King of the Hill finals – fastest racers battle for the crown.
  • 3:00 PM — Prizegiving at the finish stage.

Amenities

  • Coffee carts from 7:30 AM along the river end of Drews Ave.
  • Food trucks featuring local favourites, vegan and gluten-free options.
  • Portable toilets located at both ends of the course and in Queens Park.
  • Merch and sponsor stalls beside the heritage buildings on Drews Ave.

Getting there

  • Street parking is limited. Use the Trafalgar Square carpark and walk five minutes to the hill.
  • Bike valet operated by Velo Whanganui sits near the base of Drews Ave.
  • Mobility parking and drop-off accessible from Taupō Quay—show your permit to volunteers.
  • Public buses run on the hour from the i-SITE hub; disembark at Ridgway Street.

Family friendly

  • Kids zone with face painting and Lego kart building from 10 AM to 2 PM.
  • Bring picnic rugs—there are shaded spots under the trees in Queens Park.
  • Pack ear protection for little ones during the horn blasts at race start.