OK , so it has been rumoured for ages , and many were aware that it was getting serious but now it is official , permission has been granted for the Thunder Ridge circuit at TECT Park , between Tauranga and Rotorua . More than a little exciting , the prospect of a new circuit rising from the dirt at a venue that already attracts outdoors sports people , be that motocross or mountain biking , there are no houses anywhere near this location , phew . The terrain lends 26 metres of elevation change and will see some banked corners as well , giving the forested venue a unique atmosphere , along with camping , garages for day or long-term use , a well-planned pit area , café , restrooms and great vantage points . The dynamic trio of Tony Roberts ( Hampton Downs co-creator ), long-time racer Roger Williams and a name motorcycle fans will know well , former Hampton Downs and Pukekohe Park manager , Gary Stirling , came up with the idea and are now steering it across the line . The 3.2km circuit will meet the need to bring affordable motorsport back to the area and the wider motorsport community . With the closure of Pukekohe , track time has become more and more expensive and difficult to get . It is hoped to have a bit of the old Bay Park theme of making it accessible to all , irrespective of how quick or not the bike , car , driver or rider is , as well as holding bigger events . The new circuit will not require public funding and will be fully compliant with the World Governing Body Of Motorsport , meeting the FIA ’ s strict rules while retaining the seclusion the area provides . Professional training will also be available to a new generation of motorsport fans to come along and learn their craft at affordable rates , giving the young drivers and riders out there a place to let their hair down in a controlled environment that is designed to be as safe as possible while letting their speed bug dine out on a fabulous new facility . Planning permission has officially been granted and the lease through council is well underway . We will be tracking progress and as soon as a completion date is announced , it will be here in Kiwi Rider News .