The New Zealand Grand Prix will remain at Manfeild for a further three years – a decision that will delight all concerned, the circuit’s administrator says.

“We are thrilled to be asked to continue to host the NZ Grand Prix, the country’s most illustrious domestic motorsport event, through to 2014 and we know our supporters, friends and all motorsport fans will share that joy,” commented Manfeild Park Trust chairman Ben Vanderkolk today.

“Since 2008 we have been entrusted with a unique sporting event, a spectacular contest that celebrates our rich motor sport heritage and has become a major drawcard – a national championship with international competition.”

MotorSport New Zealand’s decision was recognition of the region’s commitment to making the race weekend a true community celebration of a heritage event. One that everyone in the region would take pride in and want to be involved with.

“Motorsport has given us a clear direction as to its expectations – we hope to exceed them – and we are well poised to partner the sport in continuing to ensure the rightful place of the NZGP in the national sporting calendar,” Mr Vanderkolk said.

Palmerston North-headquartered Toyota New Zealand, whose Toyota Racing Series competes for the big prize, and MotorSport New Zealand also joined in congratulating Manfeild.

“The NZGP is an iconic event on the motorsport calendar, one of only two Grand Prix awarded outside Formula 1 by the FIA,” noted MotorSport New Zealand president Steven Kennedy.

“The NZGP is a MotorSport New Zealand title which we are privileged to hold and which is entrusted by the sport to Manfeild for a further three years.”

Toyota NZ general manager (finance), John Fowke, would have been extremely surprised if the grand prix wasn’t at Manfeild – it was his company’s ‘home circuit’ in New Zealand and the perfect location.

“We’re extremely pleased. It’s a tribute to the hard work that has been put in within the Manawatu community and by Manfeild circuit in particular.

“This year’s race provided a fitting finale to our international series. The NZGP is a huge drawcard to attract overseas’ drivers, who come here to hone their skills against New Zealand’s best.”

Manfeild Park Trust had made no secret of its enthusiasm for staging the race, which has the potential to pump millions of dollars into the regional economy.

The Trust’s bid to continue the host rights at the Feilding circuit was wholly supported by Toyota New Zealand, the Palmerston North City Council and Manawatu District Council.

Endorsement by Wellington’s mayor, Kerry Prendergast, reinforced the race’s standing within the lower North Island.

TRS manager Barrie Thomlinson also described Manfeild as the perfect host, commenting last year: “The GP at Manfeild feels like a Grand Prix should.”

“This level of support has been a huge boost and we are grateful for it,” Mr Vanderkolk said.

Manfeild’s administration had also worked tirelessly to help ensure the NZGP was a landmark event for the region.

Promotion of the 2010 race weekend of February 13-14 included a billboard campaign in the lower North Island and a dinner at Manfeild stadium.

Manfeild also worked in conjunction with Southward car museum to reunite a rare and valuable Maserati 250F car with its most famous driver, motorsport legend and former GP winner Chris Amon, a crowd-pulling coup that attracted international media attention.

“Our chief executive, Heather Verry, and our staff have responded in a determined and creative way to meet the demands of a truly international motorsport event.”

This year, too, Manfeild Stadium was employed as an indoor pit paddock, an innovation warmly welcomed by competitors and unique to New Zealand, if not the southern hemisphere.

“ Competitors, the public, the sponsors and the investors in the sport loved it.”

Mr Vanderkolk reminded that while big motorsport events were integral to Manfeild’s well-being, they are only one element of the broader vision.

“What we deliver in international motor sport, we can deliver in the international event market in the equestrian and agri-business sectors.”

Developing the Manfeild vision required time and patience, but it was already reaping reward, with more benefits to come.

“The regional investment in Manfeild Park has been prudently developed with a robust strategy and clear vision.

“There has been a lead time in pitching for and attracting events, but the growth in the Manfeild Park event calendar reflects its multi-functional capability and its versatility.”

For further information:
Heather Verry,
Chief executive officer,
Manfeild Park Trust.
027 4829 422.
ceo@manfeild.co.nz